Hello and thanks for posting,

I don't think manuka honey will have a demonstrable effect on the body, as it is largely broken down and absorbed in the stomach, when swallowed. It also varies in quality and strength, and as this is a food product, does not have to be standardised like medicines. It is not well studied, in use with chemotherapy, or cancer patients side effects, so there will not be much reliable or detailed data out there. It has been studied more in relation to dressing wounds, as it is has a mild antibiotic effect.

Anyone wanting to take supplements, are advised to tell their hospital team so that they are aware. Honey can raise blood glucose levels, which is not a problem if someone is not diabetic. Sometimes patients on chemotherapy are prescribed steroids, and this can affect blood sugar levels, so in that situation, caution would have to be taken, with taking honey regularly.

I hope that this is helpful,

Best wishes,

Vanda