Honey Dressing Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Type (Non-adhesive, Adhesive), By Product (Honey Impregnated Gauze, Honey Gel Sheets), By Wound Type (Chronic Wounds, Acute Wounds), By End-use, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2024 - 2030

Honey Dressing Market Size & Trends

The global honey dressing market size was estimated at USD 33.72 million in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.91% from 2024 to 2030. The market is driven by the increasing awareness of the health benefits associated with honey, such as its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This has led to a growing preference for natural and organic products over synthetic alternatives in wound care. The rise in chronic wounds due to conditions such as diabetes and an aging population contributes significantly to market growth. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), by the year 2030, one out of every six individuals globally will be 60 years or older.

The prevalence of chronic wounds, such as diabetic ulcers, pressure sores, and venous leg ulcers, is on the rise globally due to factors such as an aging population and increasing rates of diabetes. In November 2023, an article presented in JAMA highlighted that diabetic foot ulcers impact approximately 18.6 million individuals worldwide and 1.6 million in the U.S. each year. About half of these ulcers result in infection, and around 20% of such infections culminate in the amputation of a part or the entire foot. These conditions often require specialized wound care management, where honey dressings have proven to be beneficial.

Ongoing research and development activities focused on enhancing the efficacy and application methods of honey dressings also contribute to market growth. Innovations in product formulations, such as combining honey with other therapeutic agents or developing new delivery systems, are expanding the scope of honey dressings in clinical settings. In July 2023, an article in Polymers reported that incorporating honey into hydrogel wound dressings during in vivo and in vitro studies prevented bacterial infections, improved absorption, and accelerated healing due to honey's anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties.

The growing awareness among consumers regarding the benefits of natural and organic products has significantly driven the market. Honey is recognized for its antimicrobial properties, which make it an effective treatment for various types of wounds, including surgical and traumatic wounds. As people become more health-conscious and seek alternatives to synthetic treatments, honey dressings are gaining popularity due to their natural composition and effectiveness in promoting wound healing. In April 2024, a study featured in the journal Burns demonstrated that the use of Medical Grade Honey (MGH) supplemented treatments can effectively heal persistent, infected burn injuries and wounds acquired from skin grafts, owing to its wide-ranging antimicrobial capabilities and its ability to promote wound healing.

Market Concentration & Characteristics

The degree of innovation in the market is considered medium. This is primarily due to the ongoing development of new formulations that incorporate various health benefits, such as enhanced wound healing properties and the inclusion of additional natural ingredients. Companies are increasingly focusing on research and development to create unique products that cater to specific consumer needs, such as organic or allergen-free options. For instance, in February 2024, it was disclosed that Comvita allocates more than USD 5 million every year to research and development, exceeding the combined investment of the entire industry.

The level of merger and acquisition activities in the market is assessed as low. While there are occasional acquisitions aimed at expanding product lines or entering new markets, the overall activity remains limited. This can be attributed to the niche nature of honey dressings within the broader healthcare sector, which does not attract significant investment compared to more lucrative segments like pharmaceuticals or biotechnology.

The impact of regulations on the market is classified as moderate. Regulatory bodies impose guidelines regarding product safety, labeling, and efficacy claims, which manufacturers must adhere to to ensure compliance. These regulations can influence product development timelines and costs but do not significantly hinder market entry for new players. The presence of established standards helps maintain quality but also requires companies to invest in regulatory affairs.

Product expansion in the market is viewed as a medium. Companies are actively exploring opportunities to diversify their offerings by introducing variations such as different types of honey (e.g., Manuka) or combining honey with other therapeutic agents such as aloe vera or essential oils. This trend reflects a growing consumer demand for multifunctional products that provide additional health benefits beyond traditional uses.

Regional expansion in the market is noted as occurring primarily in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia-Pacific. In North America, there is a growing trend towards organic products, while Europe sees an increasing demand for artisanal and specialty foods. The Asia-Pacific region is experiencing a rise in health consciousness among consumers, leading to greater interest in natural sweeteners such as honey.

Type Insights

The non-adhesive segment dominated the market in terms of revenue in 2023 and is anticipated to grow at the fastest CAGR from 2024 to 2030.  In the market, non-adhesive refers to wound care products that utilize honey as a primary ingredient but do not adhere directly to the wound bed. Instead, these dressings are designed to create a moist healing environment while allowing for easy removal without causing trauma to the wound or surrounding skin. This characteristic is particularly beneficial for patients with sensitive skin or those who require frequent dressing changes.

The increasing prevalence of chronic wounds such as diabetic ulcers and pressure sores, rising awareness about the benefits of honey in wound healing due to its natural antibacterial properties, and growing demand for advanced wound care solutions that minimize pain during dressing changes drive this segment. Advancements in technology have led to the development of innovative non-adhesive dressings that enhance patient comfort and promote faster healing times. In May 2024, The Journal of Aging Research & Lifestyle published an article highlighting the rising demand for effective wound care treatments in an aging population. It emphasized the comparison between medical-grade honey (MGH) and other wound care methods for the elderly, recommending MGH as a safe, cost-effective, and user-friendly option for elderly wound management.

Product Insights

The honey impregnated gauze segment dominated the market and accounted for a 41.1% share in 2023. Honey impregnated gauze is a type of wound dressing that incorporates honey into a gauze material, allowing for the benefits of honey to be delivered directly to the wound site. This dressing is designed to provide a moist healing environment, promote autolytic debridement, and reduce infection risk due to honey’s natural antibacterial properties. For instance, Kastormed provides honey gauze dressing, a non-sticky and ventilated mesh fabric, infused with honey derived from New Zealand's Leptospermum scoparium. This dressing accelerates wound healing and wards off infections, efficiently cleansing the wound and sustaining a moisture balance for optimal healing.

Honey gel sheets segment is anticipated to grow at the fastest CAGR from 2024 to 2030. Honey gel sheets are another innovative product in the honey dressings market, consisting of a hydrogel matrix infused with honey. These sheets are designed for easy application and removal while providing a protective barrier against external contaminants. Advancements in wound care technology that emphasize patient comfort and ease of use drive this segment. The rising demand for non-invasive treatment options that minimize pain during dressing changes has fueled interest in honey gel sheets.

Wound Type Insights

The chronic wounds segment held the largest revenue share in 2023 and is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR from 2024 to 2030. The prevalence of chronic wounds, characterized as injuries that do not progress through a normal, timely sequence of healing and may linger for an extended period, is on the rise due to increasing rates of diabetes and obesity. In October 2023, research published in Advances in Wound Care revealed that 10.5 million U.S. Medicare beneficiaries suffer from chronic wounds. This condition affects the quality of life for about 2.5% of the entire U.S. population, with a higher prevalence among the elderly. This surge in chronic conditions is bolstering the need for effective wound care solutions, such as honey dressings.

The escalating recognition of honey's benefits in wound management among healthcare providers is driving the expansion of its market. Improvements in the formulation of honey dressings that boost both their effectiveness and user-friendliness are spurring market growth in this niche sector. In September 2022, scientists at the University of Manchester highlighted the remarkable antimicrobial and tissue-repair capabilities of honey, suggesting its full potential should be harnessed for wound healing. This assertion comes after reviewing over 250 scholarly articles spanning 85 years, with the earliest article dating back to 1937. Their findings were published in the journal Pharmaceutics.

End-use Insights

The hospitals dominated the market with the largest revenue share in 2023. This segment is significantly influenced by the increasing prevalence of chronic wounds and surgical procedures that require advanced wound care solutions. Hospitals are often equipped with specialized departments for wound management, where honey dressings are utilized due to their natural antibacterial properties and ability to promote healing. The growing awareness among healthcare professionals about the benefits of using honey as a topical treatment has led to its increased adoption in hospital settings. The rising number of patients undergoing surgeries and experiencing post-operative complications necessitates effective wound care products, further propelling the demand for honey dressings within hospitals.

The clinics segment is anticipated to grow at the highest CAGR from 2024 to 2030. The utilization of honey dressings in clinical settings is driven by the rising trend of outpatient treatments and an increasing focus on minimally invasive procedures. Clinics often cater to patients with minor injuries or chronic wounds that require regular dressing changes, making honey dressings an appealing option due to their ease of application and effectiveness in promoting healing without causing pain during dressing removal. The growing emphasis on patient-centered care encourages clinics to adopt innovative wound care solutions such as honey dressings, which enhance patient comfort and improve clinical outcomes

Regional Insights

North America honey dressing market dominated the global market and accounted for a 42.3% share in 2023. This market is significantly influenced by the increasing awareness of natural and alternative therapies for wound care. The cultural shift towards holistic health practices has led to a growing preference for honey-based products, which are recognized for their antibacterial properties and ability to promote healing. Advancements in healthcare technology have facilitated the development of innovative honey dressing formulations that enhance efficacy and ease of use.

U.S. Honey Dressing Market Trends

The U.S. honey dressings market is anticipated to grow at a significant CAGR from 2024 to 2030 due to an expanding geriatric population that requires effective wound management solutions. This demographic trend necessitates advanced wound care products that can address chronic wounds commonly associated with aging. There is a notable increase in clinical studies validating the effectiveness of honey dressings in various types of wounds, which enhances credibility among healthcare professionals and encourages adoption in clinical settings.

Europe Honey Dressing Market Trends

The honey dressings market in Europe is anticipated to grow over the forecast period. The European honey dressings market is characterized by stringent regulations regarding medical products, which ensures high-quality standards for honey-based treatments. In April 2024, a review in the Journal of Clinical Medicine emphasized that bioactive dressings (BDs) serve as innovative and versatile options for wound management. Due to their capability to boost the healing process via numerous mechanisms, BDs are deemed vital in modern wound care.

The UK honey dressings market is expected to grow from 2024 to 2030 due to a growing emphasis on evidence-based medicine that supports the use of honey dressings as effective treatment options for wounds. The National Health Service (NHS) has begun incorporating these products into standard care protocols due to their proven benefits in reducing infection rates and accelerating healing times.

The honey dressings market in Germany is expected to grow over the forecast period. Germany’s market benefits from robust research institutions dedicated to exploring the therapeutic applications of natural substances like honey. This scientific backing fosters innovation within the sector and leads to high-quality product offerings that meet rigorous safety standards.

France honey dressings market is expected to grow from 2024 to 2030 due to an increasing trend toward integrating traditional medicine with modern healthcare practices, particularly concerning wound management strategies involving honey dressings. French consumers exhibit a preference for locally sourced materials; thus, domestic production of medical-grade honey has gained traction within this market segment

Asia Pacific Honey Dressing Market Trends

The honey dressings market in Asia Pacific is expected to experience rapid growth with the fastest CAGR of 5.51% over the forecast period. The market is experiencing growth due to the increasing awareness of the therapeutic benefits of honey in wound care, particularly in countries such as Australia and New Zealand. The cultural significance of natural remedies in these regions has led to a higher acceptance and preference for honey-based products among healthcare professionals and patients. In April 2024, the Journal of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapeutics highlighted a resurgence in research into honey's role in wound care, citing its beneficial properties such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory effects. These mechanisms help in wound healing by promoting new blood vessel formation, and skin regeneration, and reducing inflammation and potential infection

China honey dressings market is anticipated to grow over the forecast period. In China, the market is influenced by a growing emphasis on traditional medicine combined with modern healthcare practices. The integration of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) principles into contemporary wound care has fostered a favorable environment for honey dressings, which are often perceived as natural and effective alternatives to synthetic treatments.

The honey dressings market in Japan is expected to witness a rapid growth from 2024 to 2030. Japanese market is driven by an aging population that increasingly requires effective wound management solutions. The high prevalence of chronic wounds among elderly patients has prompted healthcare providers to seek out advanced treatment options that minimize infection risks and promote faster healing.

India honey dressings market is anticipated to grow at a rapid rate over the forecast period due to the burgeoning interest in organic and natural health products is significantly impacting the honey dressings market. The rise of health-conscious consumers who prefer holistic treatment options has resulted in increased demand for honey-based wound care products.

Latin America Honey Dressing Market Trends

The honey dressings market in the Latin America is witnessing a significant trend towards the integration of traditional medicine with modern healthcare practices. Many countries in this region have a rich history of using honey for its natural healing properties, particularly in wound care. In August 2023, Pharmaceutics published an article revealing the development of Ulmoplus, a medical-grade honey derived from Ulmo (Eucryphia cordifolia) honey. This study focused on the innovative therapy of incorporating copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) into the honey for enhanced wound healing in both infected and non-infected wounds.

The honey dressings market in Brazil is expected to grow from 2024 to 2030. In Brazil specifically, there is a notable trend towards sustainability and eco-friendliness within the honey dressing market. Brazilian consumers are increasingly prioritizing products that promote health and align with environmental values. This has led to a rise in demand for honey dressings that utilize sustainably sourced ingredients and eco-friendly packaging.

Middle East and Africa Honey Dressing Market Trends

The Middle East and Africa honey dressings market is poised to grow at a CAGR of 3.91 % during the forecast period. The market is significantly influenced by the increasing awareness of natural wound healing solutions among healthcare professionals and patients. The region’s growing healthcare infrastructure, supported by government initiatives to enhance medical services, further stimulates market growth. In March 2024, the study Honey Experiment on Leprosy Ulcer (HELP) published in JMIRx Med aimed to explore the therapeutic benefits of raw, unadulterated African honey compared to normal saline dressings in healing leprosy ulcers. This was to be determined through a randomized controlled trial held at specialized hospitals in Nigeria, involving patients divided into an intervention group receiving honey dressings and a control group treated with saline dressings.

The honey dressings market in Saudi Arabia is expected to grow over the forecast period. In Saudi Arabia, the market is propelled by a combination of factors including a strong emphasis on healthcare quality improvement and an increasing prevalence of diabetes-related wounds. The government’s Vision 2030 initiative aims to enhance healthcare services, which includes promoting advanced treatment options such as honey dressings that are known for their antibacterial properties.

Kuwait honey dressings market is anticipated to witness growth over the forecast period. Kuwait’s honey dressings market benefits from a rising trend toward preventive healthcare and holistic treatment approaches among its population. The Kuwaiti government’s investment in modernizing healthcare facilities encourages the adoption of innovative medical products such as honey dressings that offer effective wound management solutions.

Key Honey Dressing Company Insights

Key players operating in the market are undertaking various initiatives to strengthen their market presence and increase the reach of their products and services. Strategies such as expansion activities and partnerships are playing a key role in propelling the market growth.

Recent Developments

• In March 2022, the UK's Advancis Medical, recognized for its advancement and production of high-quality wound care solutions, partnered with All Saints Church Hanworth to ship out 14 pallets containing wound care dressings and cell saver devices to Ukrainian hospitals.

• In March 2019, Integra LifeSciences’ MediHoney, a leading brand of medical-grade Manuka honey known for treating wounds and burns, was evaluated in a study for its effectiveness on partial thickness facial burns. The research, conducted in collaboration with West Penn Hospital Burn Center and West Virginia University's Department of Psychology, highlighted MediHoney as a potentially cost-effective and clinically viable option for such treatments.

Honey Dressing Market Report Scope

Global Honey Dressing Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at global, regional, and country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the global honey dressing market report based on type, product, wound type, end use, and region. 

• Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Non-adhesive

  • Adhesive

• Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Honey Impregnated Gauze

  • Honey Gel Sheets

  • Honey Ointments

  • Honey-based Pastes

• Wound Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Chronic Wounds

  • Acute Wounds

• End-use Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Hospitals

  • Clinics

  • Homecare Settings

  • Long-term Care Facilities

• Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

    • Mexico

  • Europe

    • UK

    • Germany

    • France

    • Italy

    • Spain

    • Denmark

    • Sweden

    • Norway

  • Asia Pacific

    • Japan

    • China

    • India

    • Australia

    • South Korea

    • Thailand

  • Latin America

    • Brazil

    • Argentina

  • MEA

    • South Africa

    • Saudi Arabia

    • UAE

    • Kuwait