Manuka Honey and Honey Bee Allergy

[ttcintexas]

I have been reading on here about the benefits of Manuka Honey and MRSA (among other things) and would love to have that in the "medicine cabinet" should we ever encounter staph. However, I saw on warning for those who have honey bee allergies on a package of Manuka at the health food store. Is this the case for all Manuka Honey? When I was young I was diagnosed with an allergy to honey bees--potentially fatal. I received years worth of venom shots and was told that I would have to do this all my life. In my early 20's the thinking on this apparently changed and I was told I no longer needed the shots, but should carry an EpiPen "just in case." I have been stung once since on my hand. My hand did swell a bit, but no anaphylaxis. Do you think I should avoid Manuka? Thanks.

[onetrumpeter]

I, too, am considering having some on hand but the "official" brand "Manuka Honey" is so pricey.  Also pricey, lol, is what I wanted to mention: oil of oregano.  I read "Dr. Cass Ingram"'s book "The Cure is in the Cupboard" and he's *all* about North American Herb & Spice's product, "Oreganol."  It seems like he might own that co. or something but I was convinced enough to go straight to that brand rather than try a less $ one.  I tried the regular and then upgraded to the "super strength" as I didn't notice the regular helping my cold virus.

BUT we used the regular Oreganol on my DS's impetigo spots on his bottom and they really cleared up.  Haven't noticed much with internal use for myself.  *Possibly* noticed help w/ putting it on my kids' soles as they're also fighting colds (and DH has a possible pertussis dx!).

Just wanted to mention an alternative.  Have no clue about the bee sting allergy and honey use; sorry!  How do you do with honey orally?  I'd guess the venom is quite different from honey, but not sure.

[mbravebird]

I have a bee allergy that has been systemic in the past, and which I've carried an Epi pen for at times. I don't react to Manuka honey, internally or externally. I also don't react to bee pollen internally.

I've always had really bad reactions to stings, but the only time it's gone systemic was when I was stung near a groin lymph node.

Not sure if my situation is comparable to yours, but thought I'd share just in case.

[ttcintexas]

Thanks Mbravebird. Seems like it's worth trying if needed.