Honey: Antimicrobial and Anti-Infective Function, 2nd Edition

Dear Colleagues,

Following the success of the first edition of this Special Issue, we are delighted to launch the second edition, which continues to explore the antimicrobial potential of medical-grade honey.

Infectious diseases represent a leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide and are caused by bacterial, fungal, and viral pathogens. The emergence of antimicrobial resistance poses a critical challenge that necessitates the development of effective therapeutic strategies. Consequently, there is growing interest in exploring innovative or rediscovered preventive and curative approaches within the framework of antimicrobial stewardship programs. Honey represents a promising therapeutic agent with a long history of use in traditional medicine.

Honey exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, fungi, and viruses, including antimicrobial-resistant strains and those that persist in biofilms. Additionally, honey exhibits prebiotic and probiotic properties, can modulate the gut microbiota composition, and possesses immunomodulatory activities. These properties synergistically facilitate pathogen clearance, making honey an effective therapeutic option for various infectious conditions. For instance, clinical studies have demonstrated that medical-grade honey (MGH) is efficacious in treating infected wounds, respiratory tract infections, gastrointestinal infections, tuberculosis, oral mucositis, dental diseases, herpes labialis, and COVID-19. Further research investigating the antimicrobial mechanisms of action and clinical efficacy of honey across different indications is warranted to advance its implementation in evidence-based medicine.

This Special Issue welcomes submissions of original research articles and comprehensive reviews examining the antimicrobial activity, molecular mechanisms, and clinical applications of MGH. Studies encompassing preclinical investigations (in vitro and/or in vivo), case series, and clinical trials are particularly encouraged.

Dr. Niels Cremers
Dr. Juraj Majtan
Dr. José Miguel Álvarez-Suárez
Guest Editors

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