Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM: In Cameroon, honey shows potential as a low-cost, effective wound treatment due to its antimicrobial and wound-healing properties. This study seeks to evaluate the clinical efficacy of Cameroon honey compared to normal saline in the management of chronic wounds at the Buea Regional Hospital, Cameroon. METHODS: This hospital-based randomized controlled trial was conducted at Buea Regional Hospital, Cameroon, over 6 months. Eighteen patients with chronic wounds were randomly assigned to receive either honey (n = 9) or normal saline (n = 9) dressings. Honey-treated wounds were dressed with unprocessed Cameroonian honey, while saline-treated wounds received saline applications. Wound size, granulation tissue formation, infection rates, and pain were monitored over 12 weeks. Wound swabs were collected and inoculated on blood and MacConkey Agar. Isolates were identified using API 20. Data were analyzed using SPSS, and statistical significance was p < 0.05. RESULTS: Honey-treated wounds achieved a significantly higher wound closure rate (97%) and granulation tissue formation (90%) compared to saline-treated wounds (63% and 70%, respectively; p < 0.001). By Week 12, no bacteria were isolated from the honey group, while saline-treated wounds harbored Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus saprophyticus. Pain, exudate, and inflammation were reduced faster in the honey group, with higher patient satisfaction. CONCLUSION: Honey is a superior alternative to normal saline for managing chronic wounds, offering improved healing outcomes, effective infection control, and enhanced patient satisfaction. Its integration into routine wound care in resource-limited settings like Cameroon is highly recommended. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE: This study explores the potential of Cameroonian honey to promote quicker wound healing and improve the quality of life for patients with chronic wounds. By offering a low-cost, accessible alternative to normal saline, it supports better outcomes in resource-limited settings. What does this paper contribute to the wider global clinical community? The findings contribute to global evidence on natural therapies, supporting the integration of locally sourced solutions like honey into wound care practices.They highlight the potential of such remedies to accelerate healing, reduce complications, and improve patient well-being. PATIENT CONTRIBUTION: Patients participated as the primary subjects in the study, consenting to receive either Cameroonian honey or normal saline for the dressing of their chronic wounds. Through their involvement, they provided firsthand data on wound healing progress and any side effects or improvements experienced.