The Science Behind LifeMel Honey

LifeMel is a specially formulated honey which could help cancer patients who develop Neutropenia, a debilitating side effect associated with chemotherapy and radiation therapy, according to a recent study.

The peer reviewed study published in the international journal, MEDICAL ONCOLOGY, highlights the beneficial role Life Mel Honey can have in patients experiencing ‘chemotherapy induced neutropenia’ Life Mel Honey, when administered to patients receiving chemotherapy with a known tendency to developing neutropenia, had a positive effect on the hematopoietic system and stimulated the production of red and white blood cells, hemoglobin and blood platelets.

Chemotherapy suppresses the hematopoietic system (blood production), thus impairing the body’s immunity mechanisms, potentially inducing anaemia and limiting the doses of chemotherapy which can be tolerated by patients. Febrile neutropenia, the most serious hematologic toxicity, is associated with the risk of life-threatening infections as well as chemotherapy dose reductions and delays which may compromise treatment outcomes for cancer patients.

The study assessed the use of Life Mel Honey (LMH) in patients with grade 4 neutropenia receiving chemotherapy for primary or metastatic disease. Traditionally, colony-stimulating factors (CSFs) are used for primary and secondary treatment in patients with grade 4 neutropenia, yet the use of these drugs are expensive and not without side-effects. In the current study, Life Mel Honey was administered to prevent neutropenia and reduce the need for CSFs in patients treated with chemotherapy. Blood counts were performed weekly.

There was no recurrence of neutropenia after LMH intake and no need for treatment with CSFs in 40% of patients. LMH was also effective at reducing the incidence of anaemia, which can often be a side effect of chemotherapy, in 64% of patients. No side effects were noted following LMH intake.

Further studies with larger numbers of patients are planned and researchers are currently preparing for Stage II clinical trials.