Topical application of honey in otorhinolaryngology (literature review)

Objective: To provide an up-to-date review of the efficacy of honey and its potential applications in otorhinolaryngological practice. Methods. A literature review was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar databases. The analysis included publications concerning the pharmacological properties of honey and its clinical use in the treatment of ENT disorders. Results. The antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative properties of honey were examined, along with its mechanisms of action on the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract. The review included: 7 studies on the use of honey in pediatric otorhinolaryngology, 12 in rhinology, and 6 in otology. Identified were 6 meta-analyses, 14 randomized controlled trials, 3 case reports, as well as animal model and in vitro studies. Analyzed sources included: 11 articles on the antibacterial properties of honey, 2 on its use in ENT diseases, 5 related to tonsillectomy, 1 on angina, 1 on chemical burns of ENT organs, 11 on rhinosinusitis, 1 on functional endoscopic sinus surgery, 2 on cochlear implantation, 1 on mastoiditis, 2 on otitis externa, and 1 on otitis media. Conclusion. The review demonstrates the high potential of honey in otorhinolaryngology. The collected data support the need for further randomized controlled trials to justify its broad clinical application