Evidence supporting the use of: Honey
For the health condition: Blisters
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Honey has been used traditionally for wound care, including blisters, and there is a growing body of scientific evidence supporting its efficacy. Honey, particularly medical-grade varieties such as Manuka honey, exhibits natural antimicrobial properties, promotes moist wound healing, and can reduce inflammation. Several studies have demonstrated that honey can accelerate wound healing, decrease infection rates, and reduce pain in a variety of skin injuries, including burns, ulcers, and superficial wounds. While direct studies on blisters specifically are limited, the mechanisms by which honey assists in wound healing—such as providing a protective barrier, drawing fluid out of the wound through its high osmolarity, and supporting tissue regeneration—are applicable to blister care, especially if the blister has ruptured and exposed underlying skin. Clinical guidelines in some regions acknowledge honey as a potential dressing for minor wounds. However, most of the evidence comes from studies on burns and chronic wounds rather than acute, friction-induced blisters. Therefore, while honey's use for blisters is supported by plausible mechanisms and extrapolated evidence, direct, high-quality clinical trials on blisters specifically are lacking, justifying a moderate evidence rating.
Other health conditions supported by Honey
Abdominal PainAbrasions
Abscesses
Acid Indigestion
Acne
Allergies (respiratory)
Anal Fistula or Fissure
Antibiotics (alternatives to)
Appetite (deficient)
Arthritis
Asthma
Athlete's Foot
Bites and Stings
Bleeding (external)
Blisters
Blood in Stool
Bloodshot Eyes
Boils
Bronchitis
Bruises (healing)
Burns and Scalds
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Canker Sores
Carbuncles
Chest Pain
Colds (antiviral)
Colds (decongestant)
Colds (general)
Colds (prevention)
Colds (with fever)
Congestion
Congestion (bronchial)
Congestion (lungs)
Congestion (sinus)
Conjunctivitis
Constipation (adults)
Constipation (children)
Cough (damp)
Cough (dry)
Cough (general)
Cough (spastic)