The role of polyphenols in honey as a natural therapy

Since the dawn of time, honey has been used for its medicinal properties in many cultures. It is well known for its antimicrobial and anti inflammatory effects in the dressing of wounds, burns, skin ulcers and inflammations. Recent in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated the therapeutic potential of honey to protect against some major chronic human pathologies such as diabetes, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases and antiproliferative properties against several types of cancer. Even though there is no clinical application of this evidence yet, it seems extremely important to identify the molecules and their specific biological mechanism for future drug development. The therapeutic efficacy of honey is mainly derived from the high antioxidant activities. In the diversified chemical profile of honey, polyphenols have been recognized as the main responsible for this property. Several polyphenols have been characterized in honey, with different profiles and amounts related to its floral origin that confers distinctive healthful properties to certain unifloral honeys. This chapter will examine the state of the art in the knowledge of the therapeutical properties of honey polyphenols, with particular attention on specific unifloral honeys that have been addressed for particular efficacy.