The healing potential of honey and propolis lotion on septic wounds

Abstract

Objective To assess the potential of lotion made from honey and propolis in the treatment of septic wounds in order to determine its effectiveness. Methods The study area was Osun State, Southwest Nigeria. Fifty patients with septic wounds, aged from 20-60 years, were treated with lotion made from honey and propolis harvested from the Centre for Apicultural Research, Training and Honey Production (CARTHOP) Farm of College of Agriculture, Osun State University, Ejigbo. Honey and powdered propolis were mixed in a ratio of seven to three. The lotion was applied to the wounds three times a day. Results The wounds of the 80% of the patients showed remarkable signs of improvement at the end of the 4th day; 60% had their wounds completely healed at the end of the 10th day; the remaining 40% healed completely at the end of the 15th day. All healed wounds were without scars or blisters. Conclusions It can be concluded that the lotion from the honey and propolis has great potential for the treatment and healing of septic wounds. It is recommended that it should be incorporated in the treatment plans of septic wounds and other gangrenous wounds by hospitals in Nigeria.