“We have completely elucidated the molecular basis of the antibacterial activity of medical-grade honey, which contributes to the applicability of honey in medicine,” said Sebastian A.J. Zaat, Ph.D., a researcher involved in the work from the Department of Medical Microbiology at the Academic Medical Center in Amsterdam. “Honey or isolated honey-derived components might be of great value for prevention and treatment of infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.”

To make the discovery, Zaat and colleagues investigated the antibacterial activity of medical-grade honey in test tubes against a panel of antibiotic-resistant, disease-causing bacteria. They developed a method to selectively neutralize the known antibacterial factors in honey and determine their individual antibacterial contributions. Ultimately, researchers isolated the defensin-1 protein, which is part of the honeybee immune system and is added by bees to honey. After analysis, the scientists concluded that the vast majority of honey’s antibacterial properties come from that protein. This information also sheds light on the inner workings of honey bee immune systems, which may one day help breeders create healthier honey bees.

“We’ve known for many years that honey can be good for what ails us, but we haven’t known how or why it works,” said Gerald Weissmann, M.D., Editor-in-Chief of the FASEB Journal, “Now that we’ve extracted a potent antibacterial ingredient from honey, we can make it still more effective and take the sting out of bacterial infections.”

Even though all types of honey contain healing properties to some degree, it has been determined that Manuka honey from New Zealand seems to have the highest levels of these healing properties. Therefore, active medical-grade Manuka Honey is most appropriate for medicinal use. For more information or to purchase Manuka Honey, and Manuka Honey products, call 1-866-427-73269 or visit www.HoneymarkProducts.com.

Honey has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties, particularly as an antimicrobial agent. It has also been recognized that honeys from different plants vary in their antimicrobial potency. Honey exerts its antibacterial activity through two basic mechanisms: physical blockage of microbial growth and the presence of antimicrobial chemical compounds. The physical components are the osmotic effect and the acidity of honeys. The osmotic effect derives from the fact that the water content of honey is less than 20% by weight. Furthermore, honey is a super-saturated solution of sugars, primarily fructose and glucose, which interact strongly with water molecules. Therefore, not only is there little water in honey, but also most water molecules are not available to support microbial life due to the interaction with sugars. Also, honey has a low pH (generally below 4.0) which is too low to allow the growth of bacterial.

There is extensive evidence that active Manuka honey is effective in promoting the healing of wounds, burns and skin ulcers, helping to reduce inflammation, swelling and pain. This wound healing activity of Manuka honey is due to its antimicrobial properties. Proper healing of a wound without leaving scars requires a moist environment, which is a challenge because moisture promotes microbial growth. Active Manuka honey will prevent microbial growth while retaining the moisture necessary for proper healing.

During the course of the past few decades, antibiotics have been used recklessly in by doctors. This has resulted in the widespread emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, in particular the resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) that plague hospitals and communities. Staph aureus is highly sensitive to active Manuka honey, highlighting the value of this honey as natural remedy.

The most affective strength of active Manuka Honey is a medium strength (UMF 12-16). Only a very small percentage of active Manuka Honey is produced in New Zealand that reaches extremely high UMF Ratings. However, UMF Ratings of 20, 25, 30 etc. are no more affective than a medium strength Manuka honey in the UMF 12-16 range. Some unscrupulous beekeepers in New Zealand have been known to heat their Manuka honey in an attempt to increase the UMF rating. However, heating Manuka honey can compromise the integrity of its healing properties.

For more information or to purchase Manuka Honey, call 1-866-427-7329 or visit www.HoneymarkProducts.com.

Anti-Itch Cream Ingredients:

Certified Organic Sunflower Oil: The non-volatile oil expressed from sunflower seeds. Used as an emollient.

Certified Organic Aloe Vera Gel: A cellular nutrient, it is a natural moisturizer derived from the aloe plant with the power to heal, sooth and moisturize. With anti-inflammatory properties, it promotes skin hydration as well as the tightening of the skin.

Glyceryl Stearate: An esterification product of glycerin and stearic acid. Acts as a lubricant on the skin’s surface, which gives the skin a soft and smooth appearance. It also slows the loss of water from the skin by forming a barrier on the skin’s surface and helps to form emulsions by reducing surface tension.

Certified Organic Cocoa Butter: A vegetable fat extracted from the cacao bean. Contains antioxidants and acts as a natural preservative, emollient and a moisturizer to prevent dry, itchy skin.

Certified Organic Jojoba Oil: A plant derived oil used to soothe, while it supplies emollients to the skin.

Glyerin: An organic compound that improves smoothness, providing lubrication as a humectant.

Ethyl Hexyl Palmitate: Produced using palmitic acid which is a naturally occurring fatty acid found in plants. Acts as lubricants on the skin’s surface, which gives the skin a soft and smooth appearance.

Manuka Honey: Derived from the nectar of the flowers that grow on the Manuka plant, indigenous to New Zealand. Contains natural antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal and anti-parasitic properties.

Canadian Willow Herb Extract: Plant-derived ingredient that acts as a skin cleanser, freshener and soother for irritated areas of the skin. Contains anti-inflammatory properties and also demonstrates free radical scavenging ability.

Beeswax: A natural wax produced in the hive of honeybees. Creates a protective barrier against environmental aggressors.

Shea Butter: Derived from the shea nut, it is an excellent natural moisturizer that not only soothes and protects from environmental damage, but also restores skin suppleness, increases moisturization, and improves the appearance of dry skin.

Capric Caprylic Triglyceride: An oily liquid made from coconut oil. Slows the loss of water from the skin by forming a barrier on the skin’s surface.

Stearic Acid: A natural occurring fatty acid obtained from vegetables. Acts as a surfactant and emulsifying agent.

Cetyl Alcohol: A fatty alcohol derived from coconuts. Acts as an emollient and thickening agent.

Certified Organic Borage Oil: Derived from the seeds of the Borage plant. This oil contains gamma linoleic acid which is part of the skin’s natural moisturizing factor. Used as a light, natural moisturizer and as an anti-inflammatory agent to treat dermatitis and other skin conditions.

Colloidal Oatmeal: Ground kernels of oats. As a skin protectant, Colloidal Oatmeal protects injured or exposed skin from harmful or annoying stimuli. Helps smooth and comfort itchy, scratchy and dry skin.

Echinacea Extract: An extract of the coneflower, Echinacea angustifolia. Contains anti-inflammatory and immune-stimulating properties.

Goldenseal Extract: A perennial herb in the buttercup family. Contains anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and immune-system stimulating properties.

Certified Organic Comfrey Extract: Obtained from a plant which contains allantoin and is known for its regenerating and soothing properties.

Certified Organic Chamomile Extract: Used for skin calming properties. Also forms an anti-irritant shield on the surface of the skin.

Certified Organic Arnica Flower Extract: Reduces inflammation and provides stimulation for the skin. Also enhances the appearance of dry or damaged skin by reducing flaking and restoring suppleness.

Certified Organic Lavender Extract: A plant-derived ingredient used for its stimulating, invigorating and freshening benefits to the skin.

Bisabolol: The main component of the essential oil made from the Chamomile plant. Enhances the appearance of dry or damaged skin by reducing flaking and restoring suppleness. Contains anti-irritant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

Certified Organic Flax Seed Oil: Obtained from the dried ripe seeds of the flax plant. Contains the highest level of omega-3 fatty acids among vegetable oils which is beneficial for reducing inflammation. Helpful in the treatment of Eczema and Psoriasis.

Green Tea Extract: An herbal derivative from green tea leaves. Has soothing and antioxidant properties. Effective in fighting free radicals and pro-oxidants.

Certified Organic Cucumber Extract: Performs as an astringent while imparting a cool sensation to soothe the skin. Possesses anti-itch and anti-inflammatory properties. Also helps to remove dead skin cells. Contains high amounts of amino acids and organic acids that are beneficial to the skin.

Allantoin: A soothing, non-irritating compound that has the ability to help heal the skin and stimulate the growth of healthy tissue. Derived from botanical extracts of the comfrey plant. Used to heal, moisturize and soften skin. Acts as a skin conditioning agent and skin protectant.

Mixed Tocopherols: A series of organic compounds with vitamin E activity.

Phenoxyethanol: An organic compound used as a preservative.

Ethyl Hexyl Glycerin: An organic compound and natural preservative that is derived from grains and plants.

For more information or to purchase Honeymark’s Anti-Itch Cream, call 1-866-427-7329 or visit www.HoneymarkProducts.com.

Anti-Wrinkle Serum Ingredients:

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice: Derived from the aloe plant. Contains soothing, moisturizing and healing properties.

Glycerin: An organic compound that improves smoothness, providing lubrication as a humectant.

Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate: More commonly known as Vitamin C. An organic compound that acts as a skin lightening agent and antioxidant. Helps suppress melanin production, therefore reducing hyperpigmentation and existing discoloration. Also slows deterioration caused by exposure to the air.

Panthenol: A form of Vitamin B that is derived from plants. Used as a humectant, emollient and moisturizer.

Manuka Honey: Derived from the nectar of the flowers that grow on the Manuka plant, indigenous to New Zealand. Increases the production of collegen fibers and improves upon the elasticity of the skin.

Allantoin: A soothing, non-irritating compound that has the ability to help heal the skin and stimulate the growth of healthy tissue. Derived from botanical extracts of the comfrey plant. Used to heal, moisturize and soften skin. Acts as a skin conditioning agent and skin protectant.

Green Tea Extract: An herbal derivative from green tea leaves. Has soothing and antioxidant properties. Effective in fighting free radicals and pro-oxidants.

Xanthan Gum: Derived from corn sugar. Used as a thickening agent, binder, emulsion stabilizer, skin conditioning agent and a surfactant.

Sodium Alginate: Derived from seaweed. Used as a thickening agent, binder and emulsion stabilizer.

Tocopherols: A series of organic compounds with vitamin E activity. Antioxidant and skin conditioning.

Rose Hip Oil: Extracted from the seeds of the rose bush. Source of retinol (Vitamin A), essential fatty acids and vitamin C. Reduces wrinkles and crow’s feet. Helps to combat premature aging. Restores normal skin color, reducing redness and hyper pigmentation.

Flax Seed Oil: Obtained from the dried ripe seeds of the flax plant. Reducing wrinkles and inflammation.

Borage Oil: Derived from the seeds of the Borage plant. Prevents the formation of wrinkles and improves the smoothness and firmness of the skin.

Soy Lecithin: Derived from soybean oil. Used as a natural emulsifier.

Hyaluronic Acid: Provides strength and resiliency to collagen. Temporarily smooth wrinkles by adding volume under the skin. Enhances the appearance of dry or damaged skin by reducing flaking and restoring suppleness.

Phenoxythanol: A vitamin B complex that has moisturizing properties to help restore and maintain natural skin moisture. Helps soothe irritated skin.

Ethyl Hexyl Glycerin: An organic compound and natural preservative that is derived from grains and plants.

For more information or to purchase Honeymark’s Anti-Wrinkle Serum, call 1-866-427-7329 or visit www.HoneymarkProducts.com.

Acne Cream Ingredients:

Salicylic Acid: A beta hydroxy acid (BHA) derived from birch or willow trees. Used to exfoliate the skin and to help slow down the shedding of cells, thereby preventing the clogging of pores. Also helps to break down blackheads and whiteheads.

Purified Water

Certified Organic Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice: A skin healer that soothes and relieves skin discomfort. Enhance the appearance of dry or damaged skin by reducing flaking and restoring suppleness. Obtained from the leaves of aloe plants.

Glyceryl Stearate: An esterification product of glycerin and stearic acid. Acts as a lubricant on the skin’s surface, which gives the skin a soft and smooth appearance. It also slows the loss of water from the skin by forming a barrier on the skin’s surface and helps to form emulsions by reducing surface tension.

Cetearyl Alcohol: Acts as an emollient and thickening agent. Produced from natural fats and oils.

Manuka Honey: Derived from the nectar of the flowers that grow on the Manuka plant, indigenous to New Zealand. Contains natural antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal and anti-parasitic properties.

Glycerin: An organic compound that improves smoothness, providing lubrication as a humectant.

Dimethicone: A silicone (naturally occurring element in the earth) that leaves a smooth silky texture. Non-toxic.

Certified Organic Borage Oil: Derived from the seeds of the Borage plant. This oil contains gamma linoleic acid which is part of the skin’s natural moisturizing factor. Used as a light, natural moisturizer and as an anti-inflammatory agent to treat dermatitis and other skin conditions.

Certified Organic Evening Primrose Oil: Made from the Evening Primrose, a common name for a group of plants of the Oenothera genus (sun drops or sun cups). High in omega 6 fatty acids and contains concentrated sources of Gamma Linoleic Acid. Reduces skin blemishes, inflammation and redness.

Starch: Derived from corn. Used to dry the skin for oil control.

Spiraea Ulmaria Extract: Plant-derived. Used as an astringent.

Witch Hazel Extract: An astringent produced from the leaves and bark of the North American Witch Hazel shrub.

Hyaluronic Acid: A protein naturally occurring in the deeper layers of the skin. Heals acne and combats skin irritation and inflammation. Absorbs excess oil on the skin and aides in healing the topmost layers of skin, acting as an natural antibacterial agent.

Allantoin: A soothing, non-irritating compound that has the ability to help heal the skin and stimulate the growth of healthy tissue. Derived from botanical extracts of the comfrey plant. Used to heal, moisturize and soften skin. Acts as a skin conditioning agent and skin protectant.

Panthenol: A vitamin B complex that has moisturizing properties to help restore and maintain natural skin moisture. Helps soothe irritated skin.

Tocopheryl Acetate: Vitamin E. This material is a powerful anti-oxidant. Promotes moisturization and makes the skin feel soft. Helps prevent cell membrane damage in the tissues.

Mixed Tocopherols: A series of organic compounds with vitamin E activity.

Ethyl Hexyl Glycerin: An organic compound and natural preservative that is derived from grains and plants.

Phenoxyethanol: An organic compound used as a preservative.

For more information or to purchase Honeymark’s Acne Cream, call 1-866-427-7329 or visit www.HoneymarkProducts.com.

First Aid Antiseptic Lotion Ingredients:

SD 40 Alcohol: Derived from grain. Used as an antibacterial agent.

Purified Water

Manuka Honey: Derived from the nectar of the flowers that grow on the Manuka plant, indigenous to New Zealand. Contains natural antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal and anti-parasitic properties.

Glycerin: An organic compound that improves smoothness, providing lubrication as a humectant.

Sunflower Oil: A vegetable oil expressed from Sunflower seeds. Retains moisture in the skin and provides a protective barrier that resists infection.

Oregano Oil: Derived from the oregano herb. High in antioxidant and antimicrobial activity.

Tea Tree Oil: Derived from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia, indigenous to Australia. Contains antibacterial properties.

Alpine Lichen Extract: A natural, plant-derived antibacterial, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, calming, healing cleansing, and soothing astringent for the skin.

Thyme Oil: Used as an antibacterial agent. Derived from the Thyme herb.

Guar Gum: Derived from Guar beans. Used as a thickening agent, stabilizer and emulsifier.

Alginate: Derived from seaweed. Used as a thickening agent, binder and emulsion stabilizer.

Xanthane Gum: Derived from corn sugar. Used as a thickening agent, binder, emulsion stabilizer, skin conditioning agent and a surfactant.

For more information or to purchase Honeymark’s First Aid Antiseptic Lotion, call 1-866-427-7329 or visit www.HoneymarkProducts.com.