In the modern era, stem cells are a focal point of research in biotechnology and medical science due to their immense potential to treat a wide array of serious health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. However, stem cell therapy is complex and costly, often requiring multiple booster sessions to achieve desired outcomes, especially in veterinary medicine.
Innovative Approaches in Stem Cell Activation
Professor Dr. Erma Safitri, a distinguished faculty member at UNAIR’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, highlighted the need for innovative approaches to activate endogenous stem cells using natural substances, such as honey, during her inauguration speech as a professor on October 4, 2023, at the Garuda Mukti Auditorium, MERR-C Campus, UNAIR.
“Honey can serve not only as a health and beauty supplement but also as a powerful activator for the body’s stem cells. This activation can induce autogeneration in damaged tissue cells, facilitating their repair,” Prof. Erma explained.
Honey as an Energy Source
Prof. Erma emphasized that the cells in both human and animal bodies continuously proliferate, a process that demands substantial energy. One key energy source is sugar, making honey a viable alternative to boost cell proliferation due to its rich sugar content.
“Honey can replace supplemental additives in various animal and plant cell cultures. The stimulation of cell proliferation induced by honey is attributed not only to its sugar content but also to other beneficial compounds it contains,” said Prof. Erma, a Biotechnology of Reproductive Physiology expert.
The proteins in bee products like honey and royal jelly also play a crucial role in enhancing cell proliferation and preventing apoptosis, making them excellent media for stem cell culture.
Honey as a Nutritional Source
In addition to its role as an energy source, honey is a potent nutritional supplement. Prof. Erma, who teaches Physiology and Reproductive Technology, noted honey’s antibacterial, anti-osteoporosis, and antioxidant properties.
Antioxidants are vital for protecting the body against free radicals by neutralizing their harmful effects. Adequate antioxidant consumption can reduce the risk of various diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular issues, cataracts, digestive problems, and other degenerative conditions. Honey has been shown to improve digestive health and yield positive results in treating diarrhea and reproductive disorders.
“Incorporating antioxidants into the diet can mitigate the risk of numerous diseases. Honey has been proven to enhance the digestive system and show promising results in treating patients with diarrhea and reproductive issues,” Prof. Erma concluded.