This is a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Despite some limitations, they were able to identify that honey could reduce the severity of radio / chemotherapy induced oral mucositis. They acknowledge that the exact aetiology in the effect of honey is not understood, but outlined four possible mechanisms ranging from reduction in level of pain, accelerated healing and antimicrobial effect. Needless to say, further trials were suggested to support the clinical findings.

Effect of honey use on the management of radio/chemotherapy induced mucositis: and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials.
Xu JL, Xia R, Sun ZH, et al.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY
2016;45(12):1618-25.
CONTRIBUTOR
Stuart Clark

Manchester Royal Infirmary, Manchester, UK.

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