The use of honey and cinnamon powder to make wound healing ointments requires a combination of the natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of the two, but attention needs to be paid to the scientific ratio and safety. The following is a step-by-step guide and precautions： --- ###**Materials and tools** -**Raw materials**： -**Pure natural honey** (Manuka honey is the first choice, UMF 10+ or more, because of its high antibacterial activity) -**Ceylon cinnamon powder** (avoid cheap cinnamon, which may contain high concentrations of coumarin and are at risk of hepatotoxicity) -**Tools**： -Sterile glass container (boiled, disinfected and dried) -Sterile stirring rod -Medical gauze or sterile dressing --- ###**Recipe and steps** 1. **Proportional deployment**： -**Basic formula**: 10ml honey + 1/8 teaspoon (about 0.6g) cinnamon powder (concentration of about 5%). *Reason*: Studies have shown that 5% cinnamon extract can inhibit common wound bacteria (such as Staphylococcus aureus), and excessive concentrations may irritate the skin. 2. **Hybrid method**： -Gradually add cinnamon powder to honey and stir until there are no particles to avoid the introduction of air bubbles (reduce the risk of pollution). 3. **Sterilization treatment**： -Let stand for 30 minutes after mixing. The high osmotic pressure and acidic environment of honey can further inhibit bacteria. --- ###**Usage and precautions** 1. **Pre-test**： -Apply a small amount of cream to healthy skin (such as forearm) and observe for 24 hours for redness, swelling or itching. 2. **Wound treatment process**： -**Clean the wound**: Rinse with saline water and avoid hydrogen peroxide (which may damage the tissue). -**Apply ointment**: Apply a thin layer (thickness ≤2mm) with a sterile cotton swab, covering slightly larger than the wound. -**Covering dressing**: Use breathable sterile gauze to fix it, and change it 1-2 times a day. 3. **Contraindications and risks**： -**Prohibited conditions**: Deep trauma, animal bites, obvious suppuration, or diabetics (honey may affect blood sugar). -**Potential risks**: Cinnamon may cause contact dermatitis (the incidence is about 3%), and should be discontinued immediately if burning sensation occurs. --- ###**Scientific basis and alternatives** -**Mechanism of action of honey**： -Dehydration and sterilization by osmotic pressure, glucose oxidase produces hydrogen peroxide, and pH 3.5-4.5 inhibits bacterial growth. -Clinical trial: Manuka honey can shorten the healing time of infectious wounds by 30% (refer to J. Wound Care, 2015). -**The controversial nature of cinnamon**： -In vitro experiments have shown that it has an inhibitory effect on MRSA (J. Ethnopharmacol, 2014), but there is a lack of human trial data. -**Safer alternative**: Honey can be used alone, or 5% propolis can be added (to enhance the antibacterial synergistic effect). --- ###**When will I seek medical attention? ** -If the wound shows no signs of healing, redness, swelling, spread, or fever within 48 hours, immediately stop and seek medical attention. This formula is only suitable for minor abrasions or superficial incisions. --- ###**Storage and shelf life** -Store in cold storage (4°C) for 1 week, and it is recommended to use up within 3 days at room temperature. If there is an odor or discoloration, discard immediately. --- **Note**: Natural therapies cannot replace modern medical treatment. Severe wounds need to follow the doctor's advice and use antibiotics (such as mopiroxacin) if necessary. Safety is always the first principle! 🌟