A recent study conducted at the University of Sydney has shed light on the remarkable antimicrobial attributes inherent in honey produced by indigenous Australian ants. These findings underscore the therapeutic potential of this unique substance, as well as its historical use by Indigenous communities.
The research, featured in the PeerJ journal, was spearheaded by Andrew Dong and Dr. Kenya Fernandes of the Carter Lab at the University of Sydney, overseen by Professor Dee Carter from the School of Life and Environmental Sciences and the Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases.
The focus of their investigation was the Australian honeypot ant, scientifically known as Camponotus inflatus. These ants are primarily distributed across desert regions in Western Australia and the Northern Territory. Within their colonies, a subset of worker ants is known for their peculiar role as repositories of nectar and sugary substances, fed by their counterparts. Consequently, these ants’ abdomens swell with honey, resulting in a translucent, amber-like appearance.
These overfed worker ants essentially function as stationary vending machines for their colony, regurgitating honey when alternative food sources are scarce. The assistance of Danny Ulrich from the Tjupan language group, an expert in honeypot ants based in Kalgoorlie, was instrumental in procuring specimens for the study.
Mr. Ulrich shared insights from his cultural perspective: “For our people, honey ants are more than just a food source. Digging for them is a very enjoyable way of life and a way of bringing the family together. Our people have been enjoying sweet honey ants for thousands of years. As for its medicinal use, we use it for sore throats and sometimes as a topical ointment to help keep infections at bay.”
Remarkably, this study represents the first comprehensive exploration of the medicinal potential of ant honey.
Mr. Dong, reflecting on his fascination with honeypot ants, stated, “I have long been fascinated by the honeypot ant and its amazing way of producing and storing honey. Given the medicinal use of the honey by Indigenous people, I wondered if it might have unique antimicrobial characteristics.”
The scientists have confirmed that ant honey operates differently from well-known Manuka honey, recognized for its efficacy in treating wounds and skin infections. Dr. Fernandes elaborated, “Our research shows that honeypot ant honey possesses a distinctive effect that sets it apart from other types of honey. This discovery means that honeypot ant honey could contain compounds with substantial antimicrobial power; identifying these could provide us with starting points for developing new and different types of antibiotics.”
Ant honey has been a staple in the medicinal repertoire of First Nations people for millennia, employed in treating conditions like colds and sore throats. Western scientific inquiry is now aligning with these age-old traditions.
Professor Carter emphasized, “This study demonstrates that honeypot ant honey has unique antimicrobial characteristics that validate its therapeutic use by Indigenous peoples. Taking something that has been honed by evolution to work in nature and then applying this to human health is a great way to come up with therapeutic strategies.”
The researchers also noted the effectiveness of ant honey against Staphylococcus aureus, commonly known as golden staph, a bacterium that typically resides on the skin and nasal passages but can lead to infections, including boils and sores, or even fatal complications if it enters the body through a cut. Additionally, ant honey exhibited potency against two fungal species, Aspergillus and Cryptococcus, often found in soil and posing threats to individuals with compromised immune systems.
Reference: “Unique antimicrobial activity in honey from the Australian honeypot ant (Camponotus inflatus)” by Andrew Z. Dong, Nural Cokcetin, Dee A. Carter, and Kenya E. Fernandes, published on July 26, 2023, in PeerJ. DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15645.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Antimicrobial Honey
What is the main finding of the University of Sydney study?
The main finding of the University of Sydney study is that honey produced by Australian honeypot ants possesses unique antimicrobial properties, effective against bacteria and fungi.
Who conducted the research, and where was it published?
The research was led by Andrew Dong and Dr. Kenya Fernandes from the Carter Lab at the University of Sydney. It was published in the PeerJ journal.
What is the significance of these findings?
These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of Australian ant honey, as well as its historical use by Indigenous communities for medicinal purposes.
How does ant honey differ from Manuka honey?
Ant honey operates differently from Manuka honey, a well-known topical treatment. Ant honey exhibits a distinctive antimicrobial effect, potentially containing compounds for developing new types of antibiotics.
What health benefits does ant honey offer?
Ant honey has demonstrated effectiveness against Staphylococcus aureus (golden staph), a common skin bacterium, and two fungal species, Aspergillus and Cryptococcus. It has been traditionally used for treating colds and sore throats.
What is the historical and cultural significance of ant honey?
Ant honey has been a traditional part of Indigenous medicine for thousands of years, used not only for its medicinal properties but also as a cultural and enjoyable aspect of Indigenous life.
5 comments
Indigenous cultures have rich histories; it’s beautiful to see their traditions in the spotlight.
Staph and fungi infections are no joke, this honey might be a game-changer in medicine!
wow this studi is super cool!! ants makin honey wit medicanal powers, amazin stuff!!
this is fascinating research, i wonder what compounds in ant honey r responsible for antimicrobial effects.
Indigenous people always kno stuff, their traditional knowledge valuable. glad science catchin up!