A Sweet Solution to Bacteria and Fungi: Unique anti-microbial activity “sets it apart from other types of honey” including Manuka honey, says new research.
Can honey treat fungal infections?
Maybe Yes. A scientific breakthrough has revealed that honey, produced by Australian honeypot ants, holds potent anti-microbial properties against bacteria and fungi, hinting at its potential medicinal benefits.
The pioneering research, shared today in PeerJ, was spearheaded by Andrew Dong and Dr. Kenya Fernandes of the University of Sydney’s Carter Lab. The team, led by Professor Dee Carter from the School of Life and Environmental Sciences and Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, concentrated on studying the Australian honeypot ant, Camponotus inflatus.
What is special about Australian ant honey?
Commonly found in the desert areas of Western Australia and the Northern Territory, these ants are known for their honey-laden worker ants. The abdomen of these ants is filled with nectar and sugary substances by their fellow workers, causing their bodies to swell with honey, giving them a translucent, amber look.
These ants effectively turn into stationary honey dispensaries for their colony, producing honey when food becomes scarce. The research team was assisted by Danny Ulrich, a member of the Tjupan language group, who runs honeypot ant tours in Kalgoorlie.
How is ant honey used by indigenous Australians?
“For our people, honey ants are more than just a food source. Digging for them is a very enjoyable way of life, and a way of bringing the family together,” remarked Ulrich.
He further explained: “Our people have been enjoying sweet honey ants for thousands of years. As for its medicinal use, we use it for sore throats and sometimes as a topical ointment to help keep infections at bay.”
The study signifies the first time ant honey has been explored for its medicinal uses.
“I have long been fascinated by the honeypot ant and its amazing way of producing and storing honey,” commented Mr. Dong.
Scientists have affirmed that the antimicrobial workings of ant honey vary significantly from Manuka honey, a popular topical treatment for skin infections and wounds.
“Our research shows that honeypot ant honey possesses a distinctive effect that sets it apart from other types of honey,” explained Dr. Fernandes. “This discovery means that honeypot ant honey could contain compounds with substantial antimicrobial power; identifying these could provide us with starting points for developing new and different types of antibiotics.”
Honeypot ants have been a part of the medicinal practices of First Nations people for centuries, used primarily to treat colds and sore throats. With this discovery, Western science is aligning with these ancient traditions.
What bacteria does ant honey fight against?
“This study demonstrates that honeypot ant honey has unique antimicrobial characteristics that validate its therapeutic use by Indigenous peoples,” added Professor Carter.
They discovered that ant honey can combat Staphylococcus aureus, a bacterium widely known as golden staph, which can lead to severe infections if they infiltrate the body through a cut.
Additionally, the honey was found to be potent against two fungi types, Aspergillus and Cryptococcus, likely an evolved defense to protect ant colonies from fungal invasions. These fungi can also trigger severe infections in individuals with compromised immune systems.
Source: 10.7717/peerj.15645
Image Credit: Shutterstock & Danny Ulrich