Honey to treat MGD

The results of a randomised assessor-masked trial evaluating whether manuka honey could be used to treat meibomian gland dysfunction have been released.

In the study, one group were given regular lubricants while another were given Optimel 16% manuka honey topical eye drops. The Standard Patient Evaluation of Eye Dryness (SPEED) score was measured at baseline and then monitored.

The study showed that patients in the group given eye drops containing manuka honey showed significant improvement in SPEED score after three weeks, as well as reductions in lid margin redness, conjunctival redness and corneal surface stain. In its conclusion, the report stated that eye drops containing honey were ‘an effective alternative treatment for MGD.’