As every first nation has known forever, honey is a natural antimicrobial that fights bacteria and viruses.
Researchers from the University of Sydney have confirmed the effectiveness of honey on the bacteria S. aureus—commonly known as golden staph—which can cause boils and sores and, in extreme cases, death. Honey also counters two types of fungi, Aspergillus and Cryptococcus, that can cause serious infections in people with suppressed immune systems.
They collected honey samples from the Australian honeypot ant, which is found in the deserts in Western Australia and the Northern Territory.
Aboriginals use the honey to heal sore throats and as an ointment to fight infection.
Ant honey has special properties that are different from other honeys, such as Manuka. Honeypot ant honey could contain compounds with special antimicrobial powers, said researcher Kenya Fernandes.
