Wanagama honey modulate macrophage phagocytic activity in mice

Introduction: Honey is one of the natural ingredients that have long been used in the community to cure certain diseases and to maintain health. Several studies have shown that honey contains many active ingredients that have pharmacological effects, including immunomodulatory effects. The active compound of honey varies depending on the bee that produces honey and also the food source of the bees. Wanagama honey is honey produced in the forest in Gunung Kidul, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Despite the use of Wanagama honey to improve immune system, there is no study regarding its immunomodulatory effect. This study aimed to study the immunomodulatory effects of Wanagama forest honey. Materials and Methods: Twenty Balb c mice divided into 4 different groups received different treatment which were water (CONTROL), honey 10 mg/kg BW (DOSE 1), honey 25 mg/kg BW (DOSE 2), and honey 50 mg/kg BW (DOSE 3). The immunomodulatory effect evaluation was using the carbon clearance assay. Complete blood count and delta body weight were also measured. Results: Mice in DOSE 3 group showed lowest delta body weight. the complete blood count parameters were not different significantly between groups of treatment. however, the phagocytic index was higher significantly in the groups receiving honey compare to those without honey treatment. Conclusion: This study showed the potential of Wanagama honey as immunomodulator. © 2025, Malaysian Medical Association. All rights reserved.