The Effect of Manuka Honey on Oral Mucositis

Radiation therapy to the head and neck aims to eradicate tumour cells and, in addition, can damage the lining of the mouth, varying from reddening to blistering and ulceration (oral mucositis). Although these reactions are temporary and are usually resolved over time, they can affect patients’ ability to eat, drink and talk, compromising their quality of life. In extreme cases, radiation treatment has to be postponed, jeopardizing tumour control and survival. There is currently no standard treatment for oral mucositis. Recently three small clinical trials have suggested that honey reduces the extent of oral mucositis in head and neck patients. The proposed trial aims to test these claims in 120 head and neck patients, randomized to either treatment or control group. The treatment group will use Comvita Manuka Honey three times a day throughout the trial, whilst the control group will use a standard bicarbonate soda mouthwash three times a day. The extent of mucositis will be assessed three times a week in all patients during treatment, and 2 and 4 weeks after completion of treatment. Weight will be assessed weekly and quality of life forthnightly during treatment, and 2 and 4 weeks after treatment completion.