ArticleLiterature Review

Propolis, An old remedy used in modern medicine

Authors:
To read the full-text of this research, you can request a copy directly from the authors.

Abstract

Propolis is one of the few natural remedies that has maintained its popularity over a long period of time. The pharmacologically active molecules in the propolis are flavonoids and phenolic acids and their esters. These components have multiple effects on bacteria, fungi and viruses. In addition, propolis and its components have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities. Moreover, propolis has been shown to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. However, clinical studies to substantiate these claims are required.

No full-text available

Request Full-text Paper PDF

To read the full-text of this research,
you can request a copy directly from the authors.

... When incubation is done correctly, antibacterial activity is visible as regions of clear color [15]. [17]. It is believed that the synergistic action of phenolic and other chemicals in propolis, particularly the flavonoids pinocembrin, galangin, and pinobanksin [17,18], is responsible for its antibacterial action. ...
... [17]. It is believed that the synergistic action of phenolic and other chemicals in propolis, particularly the flavonoids pinocembrin, galangin, and pinobanksin [17,18], is responsible for its antibacterial action. There was a more pronounced effect on the proliferation of Gram-positive bacteria [19]. ...
Chapter
Two levels should be addressed when considering the antibacterial activity of propolis. Two aspects of this are associated: one directly impacting the microbe and the other with stimulation of the immune system, which activates the organism’s innate defenses (Przybyłek I, Karpiński TM. Molecules 24(11):2047, 2019; Sforcin JM, Bankova V. J Ethnopharmacol 33:253–260, 2011). Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis, disturbance of membrane potential, and decreased bacterial motility are all inferred effects of propolis based on its action method. It has been found that propolis has a more potent antibacterial effect against Gram-positive bacteria compared to Gram-negative bacteria. The synthesis of hydrolytic enzymes by Gram-negative bacteria and their species-specific outer membrane structure contribute to this phenomenon since they degrade the active components of propolis (Sforcin JM. Phytother Res 30:894–905, 2016; Kędzia B. Post Fitoter 2:97–107, 2013). One of the many phenolic chemicals in propolis is a prenyl derivative of p-coumaric acid. Brazilian researchers Veiga et al. found that artepillin C concentrations were greater in ethanolic propolis than in hexane extracts. The antimicrobial activity against MRSA S. aureus was similarly vigorous in these extracts (Veiga RS, De Mendonça S, Mendes PB, Paulino N, Mimica MJ, Lagareiro Netto AA, Marcucci MC. J Appl Microbiol 122:911–920, 2017). Research has shown that artepillin C can inhibit the growth of the anaerobic bacteria Porphyromonas gingivalis through membrane blebbing (Yoshimasu Y, Ikeda T, Sakai N, Yagi A, Hirayama S, Morinaga Y, Furukawa S, Nakao R. J Dent Res 97:928–936, 2018). Additionally, tefillin C has anti-inflammatory actions through nitric oxide (Paulino N, Abreu SRL, Uto Y, Koyama D, Nagasawa H, Hori H, Dirsch VM, Vollmar AM, Scremin A, Bretz WA. Eur J Pharmacol 587:296–301, 2008) and prostaglandin E(2) inhibition and NF-kappaB regulation.
... As a result of the multipurpose health properties, propolis has potential several benefits for both humans and animal health. (Castaldo and Capasso, 2002;Bankova, 2005). The main active chemical components of propolis and their percentages are represented in Table (2). ...
... Propolis could modulate the innate immune responses through the down-regulation of toll like receptors expression of and the synthesis of pro-inflammatory cytokines (Orsatti et al., 2010). Additionally, caffeic acid phenethyl ester present in propolis mediates the immuno-stimulatory effect by increasing the phagocytic activity, and therefore strengthening the proportion of CD4 to CD8 T cells (Banskota et al., 2001 a;Castaldo and Capasso, 2002;Park et al., 2008;Girgin et al., 2009). Caffeic acid phenethyl ester suppresses T cells activities and hinders Ca2+entry channels and K+ channels, which may be a mediator sign in activating immune parameters (Nam et al., 2009). ...
Article
Full-text available
The concerns about the possible adverse effects of synthetic feed additives in livestock production world-wide has led producers to search for alternative natural feed additives. Propolis (bee glue) is a mixture of natural viscous substances that are collected by honeybees from plants. This natural product consists of about 200–300 compounds with high biological and pharmacological properties. Propolis induces an improvement in growth parameters, feed utilization, and meat quality. It also exerts antioxidant, anti-stress, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory as well as immunomodulatory and hepatic and cardiac protective effects. The presence of a huge amount of polyphenols such as flavonoids, phenolic acid esters, triterpenes, aromatic acids, diterpenic acids, and lignans are responsible for the biological properties of propolis. Therefore, propolis shows potential promising effects when applied in livestock and poultry production system. Accordingly, this review article is aimed to highlight the influences of propolis on the general health conditions of poultry and rabbits regarding the performance parameters and carcass characteristics, as well as the antioxidant, anti-stress, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and the immuno-potentiation potentials.
... Up to 300 compounds have been detected in propolis samples, mainly phenolic compounds, aliphatic acids, esters, aromatic acids, fatty acids, carbohydrates, aldehydes, amino acids, ketones, chalcones, dihydrochalcones, terpenoids, vitamins and inorganic substances [17]. Several biomedical characteristics have been observed in propolis, such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiviral, antibiotic, healing, antiparasitic, anaesthetic, antitumour, hepatoprotective, and anti-inflammatory effects, among others [18][19][20][21]. ...
... Propolis has been shown to be an alternative treatment for healing in healthy organisms [18]; however, the objective of the present work was to evaluate the healing potential of ChEEP in diabetic mice. ...
Article
Full-text available
Diabetes mellitus (DM) affects the wound healing process, resulting in impaired healing or aberrant scarring. DM increases reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, fibroblast senescence and angiogenesis abnormalities, causing exacerbated inflammation accompanied by low levels of TGF—β and an increase in Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Propolis has been proposed as a healing alternative for diabetic patients because it has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and proliferative effects and important properties in the healing process. An ethanolic extract of Chihuahua propolis (ChEEP) was obtained and fractionated, and the fractions were subjected to High–Performance Liquid Chromatography with diode–array (HPLC–DAD), High–Performance Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (HPLC–MS) and Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS) analyses and 46 compounds were detected. Deep wounds were made in a murine DM model induced by streptozotocin, and the speed of closure and the wound tensile strength were evaluated by the tensiometric method, which showed that ChEEP had similar activity to Recoveron, improving the speed of healing and increasing the wound tensile strength needed to open the wound again. A histological analysis of the wounds was performed using H&E staining, and when Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) and α—actin were quantified by immunohistochemistry, ChEEP was shown to be associated with improved histological healing, as indicated by the reduced MMP9 and α—actin expression. In conclusion, topical ChEEP application enhances wound healing in diabetic mice.
... The severity of the lesions had only marginally decreased with the elimination of ulcers and pustules in 50 percent of the infants with C. albicans by the time treatment was completed (Al-Waili, 2004). Propolis and beeswax have recently been investigated for their possible antibacterial effects against S. aureus ATCC25923, B. subtilis ATCC27853, S. epidermidis ATCC12228, and C. albicans NCTC270 (Castaldo and Capasso, 2002). Bees extract the resinous substance known as propolis from tree buds, and it is then processed with beeswax, pollen, and enzymes. ...
... Its usage in medicine dates back to ancient times due to its antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory effects (Wulandari et al., 2013;Freires et al., 2016). The organisms most sensitive to the combination inhibition zones were S. aureus and C. albicans (20 and 22 mm, respectively) (Castaldo and Capasso, 2002). Despite showing significantly higher resistance to the combination (13.5 mm and 10.5 mm, respectively), S. epidermidis and B. subtilis were still able to demonstrate the bactericidal effects of propolis and wax (Al-Waili, 2003). ...
Chapter
Beeswax is a naturally occurring substance produced by the wax glands of the species Apis mellifera and Apis cerana, while the upper part of the digestive tract of the honey bee and blossom nectar are the sources of honey. Beeswax is a component that makes up a honeycomb's structure, which bees produce in order to construct the structures in which they store their honey. Long-chained alcohols and fatty acids are abundant in it. Beeswax and honey were initially employed in medicine in the 14th century, but after that, they were exclusively utilized in the food and cosmetics sectors. Beeswax use is prevalent in beauty and body care products because of its strong hydrophobic protective characteristics. Beeswax and honey have regained popularity in the medical community due to the growing need for employing natural resources as a remedy for various illnesses. Beeswax is further utilized in the food business as an ingredient (E901) to add gloss to foodstuffs or as a wrapping film for cheese maturation. Beeswax has a number of medicinal qualities that are of considerable importance to humans, just like honey. It is believed to be very beneficial in treating burns, inflammation, and bruising. Despite the fact that there are currently few studies in the literature focusing solely on the action of beeswax, research interests have recently expanded to include the antibacterial capabilities of beeswax. Beeswax has been shown in a few trials to be beneficial against a variety of microorganisms, including Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella enterica, Candida albicans, and Aspergillus niger. These inhibitory effects are strengthened when combined with other organic products like honey or olive oil.
... Externally applied, propolis has, for example, been shown to relieve various types of dermatitis caused by bacteria and fungi (Castaldo and Capasso, 2002;Henshaw et al., 2014;Franchin et al, 2012;de Figueiredo et al, 2015;Zulhendri et al., 2021). ...
Article
Full-text available
Background The behavior of bees results in important natural products such as honey, propolis, wax, beeswax, bee pollen, royal jelly and bee venom. Sometimes, the terms propolis, geopropolis and cerumen are used interchangably despite some diferences. Objective. To discuss the commonalities and differences between substances referred to as propolis, cerumen and geopropolis respectively and to provide an overview of their bioactvities, medicinal uses and also their chemical composition to assist with a more consistent use of these terms into the future. Methodology. Scientific articles related to these three bee substances, published between 2019 and 2024, were reviewed. Results and Discussion. The main differences related to the use of the three terms relate to the bee species involved in their production and also their chemical characteristics. Propolis is produced by Apis mellifera bees, whereas native bees produce cerumen, that sometimes is also referred to as geopropolis, depending on the presence of soil components. All three bee products, propolis, geopropolis and cerumen, have medicinal applications and are also used in the food and cosmetic industry. Conclusion: Based on a review of their typical charactristics, this study creates the foundation for a more consistent use in the future of the terms propolis, geopropolis and cerumen, which are important bee derived natural products. Based on the findings of this study it is also suggested that future research should aim to further improve knowledge of the nutrient content and presence of bioactive compounds in these popular bee products.
... Earlier reports pointed out that propolis possessed a distinctive anti-inflammatory capability mediated by active flavonoids and phenolic acid derivatives (54,55) . A previous study conducted on guinea pig mast cells concluded that propolis exhibited a strong inhibitory effect against myeloperoxidase activity, NADPH-oxidase, tyrosine-protein kinase, and ornithine decarboxylase (16,56,57) . Further, propolis readily inhibited arachidonic acid metabolism pathway during inflammation (56,58) . ...
Article
Full-text available
Propolis is a complex resinous substance meticulously harvested by honeybees from diverse botanical sources, and has garnered increasing interest due to its remarkable chemical heterogeneity and extensive range of biological activities. This review provides an exhaustive update about propolis, with an emphasis on its intricate chemical diversity, botanical provenance, and multifaceted pharmacological properties. The chemical constitution of propolis is notably variable, inflected by factors such as geographic location, plant species, and environmental conditions, resulting in a plethora of bioactive compounds, including polyphenolic constituents, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and terpenoids. The botanical origin is pivotal in shaping the phytochemical profile of propolis, with distinct types being classified based on the predominant plant resins, such as poplar, coniferous, and tropical varieties. This botanical diversity inherently modulates the spectrum of bioactivities exhibited by propolis, which encompass a broad assortment of pharmacological effects, embracing antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antitumor actions. These properties collectively position propolis as a promising candidate for therapeutic interventions in areas such as wound healing, oral health, and adjunctive cancer therapies. Recent investigations have underscored the synergistic potential of propolis with other phytochemicals, suggesting its capacity to enhance the efficacy of combined therapeutic approaches. However, despite its promising bioactivity, challenges persist in elucidating precise mechanisms of action and addressing safety concerns for clinical implementation. This review integrates contemporary research to provide an ample understanding of the multifarious chemical and biological potential of propolis, offering insights into its emerging role in medicinal and industrial applications.
... Propolis regained popularity during the Renaissance, and its application in medicine expanded during the World War II. #e development of propolis research was intrinsically tied to advances in the field of chemistry, ultimately culminating in the elucidation of propolis's chemical composition during the 19th and 20th centuries (3,4,5). ...
Chapter
Full-text available
Propolis, a natural resinous substance produced by honeybees, has been the focus of extensive research due to its therapeutic potential in wound healing. This review highlights the multifaceted properties of propolis, including its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory activities, which contribute to its efficacy in tissue repair and regeneration.Propolis accelerates wound healing by promoting collagen synthesis, reducing scar formation, and combating bacterial infections, making it particularly effective for chronic and burn wounds. Its bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and polyphenols, play a crucial role in mitigating oxidative stress and enhancing immune responses.Despite its promising applications, further research is needed to standardise its composition, optimise dosages, and explore its combination with other therapeutic agents.Propolis emerges as a valuable natural resource with significant potential in regenerative medicine and wound care.
... It is used to fill the cracks and gaps and cover the walls of the hive, and is also utilized in embalming killed invader insects of the colony. Propolis has established its commercial importance as it is a known natural remedy with pharmaceutical uses dating back to ancient civilizations that used the material as an antiseptic and cicatrizant in wound treatment (Castaldo & Capasso, 2002). At present, it is widely popular for its anti-bacterial, antifungal, anti-viral, hepatoprotective, and anti-inflammatory activities, among many other uses, and it is widely studied to understand better how it can be utilized as a natural remedy, especially in an age of multidrug resistance (Pasupuleti, Sammugam, Ramesh, & Gan, 2017). ...
Chapter
Propolis is a natural aromatic and sticky substance collected by bees from plant resins. These plant sources mainly consist of plant exudates from bark and buds that contain various health care compounds forming the main active ingredients of propolis. These compounds result in propolis exhibiting diverse biological activities, making them popular remedies worldwide. The crucial step in making them available is the extraction methods. This article summarized the extraction methods utilized in the commercial production of propolis. These methods, to name a few, are the commonly used maceration, ultrasonication, microwave extraction, supercritical extraction, and accelerated solvent extraction. The advantages and disadvantages of classical and modern extraction methods in their application for large-scale commercial applications are discussed in this article.
... Propolis also provides a water-resistant lining which limits the escape of water and maintains constant humidity inside the hive. Seeley and Morse, 1976;Castaldo and Capasso, 2002;Shehu et al., 2016). ...
Article
Honeybees naturally produced a compound called propolis gathered from diverse plant sources. Bees use propolis to build and repair their hives because of its waxy and slimy qualities, which serve as a barrier against outside intruders. It is also a well-known form of folk medicine with a diverse range of biological activities. It has also been used as a health food product in important continental nations including Asia, United States and Europe. Various databased searched in order to find published papers about propolis and its relevant properties. After a thorough evaluation, 4,140 articles were obtained, 2,472 papers in the field of pharmacology of propolis components, 834 articles on the pharmacology and medical therapeutic properties, 65 articles on the propolis component in Indian regions. Propolis is incredibly popular all over the world, but in India propolis research is not widely studied or reported. India, being a vast country, has numerous varieties of propolis differing in chemical compositions and medicinal values. This review gathers major findings on the pharmacological properties of propolis focusing on its antimicrobial, anti-tumor, ant-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties.
... Propolis also has health-improving properties. It has antiseptic (Castaldo and Capasso 2002;El-Sakhawy et al. 2023), antimicrobial (Freitas et al. 2022), anti-inflammatory (Zamarrenho et al. 2023), antiviral (Ozarowski and Karpinski 2023), antiprotozoal (Alenezi et al. 2022), antiproliferative (Tatlisulu and Ozgur 2023), and antioxidant (Malkoç et al. 2019) properties. For this reason, people have taken advantage of this compound. ...
Article
Full-text available
The constituents of the aqueous, ethanol, hexane, and methanol extracts of Anatolian propolis collected from the Eastern Black Sea Region (Çayeli-Rize) were investigated by GC-MS, HPLC and AAS. Interestingly, lactulose has been identified. Ten phenolic compounds, namely caffeic acid, ferulic acid, rutin, taxifolin, quercetin, kaempferol, apigenin, silicristin, silibinin and gallic acid were determined. The contents of phenolic acids and flavonoids varied between 17.04-642.59 and 1.18-2749.20 ppm, respectively. Minerals found in propolis were Na, K, Ca, Mg and Zn. The methanol extract had the highest antiproliferative activity against the A549 cell line with an IC50 value of 0.1821 µL/mL. The extracts showed higher antibacterial activity against Gram-negative bacteria compared to Gram-positive bacteria.
... 2017). W XVII w. propolis został oficjalnie zatwierdzony jako lek w londyńskiej farmakopei i od tamtej pory cieszy się dużą popularnością, a terapia propolisem jest stosowana w medycynie ludowej po dziś dzień (Ghisalberti 1979;Castaldo, Capasso 2002). Najczęściej stosowaną formą propolisu są jego ekstrakty, dlatego niezbędny jest proces ekstrakcji surowca w celu rozpuszczenia i uwolnienia substancji aktywnych (Tran i in. ...
... Other active compounds related to the antimicrobial effect are coumaric and caffeic acid esters [6]. ...
Article
Full-text available
In this research, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 inhibition with propolis in pasteurized and UHT milks was investigated. Milk samples were divided into five groups. First group was the control samples (has Staphylococcus aureus without ethanolic extracts), the second group was inoculated with 70% ethanol (EA); the third, fourth and fifth group were inoculated with 5% EEP, 10% EEP and 15% EEP separately. Samples were then contaminated with S.aureus (12.0 log cfu/ml). Milks were inkubated at 37ºC for 24 hours. Ethanol decreased the pathogen to 9.11 log cfu/ml and 8.6 log cfu/ml in pasteurized and UHT milks, respectively. S.aureus was determined as 5.4 log cfu/ml and 7.12 log cfu/ml in pasteurized and UHT milks with 15% EEP, respectively. The most effective extract on the pathogen was the 15% EEP. These results demonstrated that propolis can be used for decrease S. aureus in pasteurized and UHT milks at 25°C.
... Propolis contains several bioactive molecules characterized by their pharmaceutical and therapeutic effects 30 . Among these pharmacological active molecules, flavonoids and phenolic acids and their esters are very known by their potential therapeutic properties 31 . Multiple studies have suggested that propolis holds promise in treating cognitive disorders, neurodegenerative conditions, and various neurological disorders. ...
Article
Full-text available
Propolis, a substance crafted from plant resin by honeybees, serves to maintain a hygienic environment within their hives and has been linked to improved cognitive function due to its antioxidant properties. This study aims to assess the influence of high fructose (HF) during prepuberty and adolescence and the Euphorbia resinifera propolis supplementation on memory in adult rats. 24 Wistar rats were distributed into three groups of 8 rats. G1 control group, don't receive any treatment; G2: F, group subjected to high fructose (23%) for 6 weeks and G3; F-MEP received fructose duringsix weeks and after received a 15-day treatment of 200mg/kg/day of Euphorbia resinifera propolis methanolic extract of (F-MEP). High fructose administration during prepuberty and adolescence resulted in long-term memory loss and impaired working memory in adult rats. Euphorbia resinifera propolis supplementation significantly increased the recognition index (p < 0.01) compared to the group F, and was able to protect against this effect on F-induced memory (p < 0.01) by a decrease in the synthesis of attacking factors and/or an increase in the production of protective factors. These findings suggest that propolis extract, with its antioxidant compounds, improves memory performance and justifies its use in traditional medicine by the Moroccan population. Euphorbia resinifera propolis supplement could serve as a therapeutic agent for memory disorders caused by fructose feeding.
... Propolis contains several bioactive molecules characterized by their pharmaceutical and therapeutic effects 30 . Among these pharmacological active molecules, flavonoids and phenolic acids and their esters are very known by their potential therapeutic properties 31 . Multiple studies have suggested that propolis holds promise in treating cognitive disorders, neurodegenerative conditions, and various neurological disorders. ...
Article
Full-text available
Propolis, a substance crafted from plant resin by honeybees, serves to maintain a hygienic environment within their hives and has been linked to improved cognitive function due to its antioxidant properties. This study aims to assess the influence of high fructose (HF) during prepuberty and adolescence and the Euphorbia resinifera propolis supplementation on memory in adult rats. 24 Wistar rats were distributed into three groups of 8 rats. G1 control group, don't receive any treatment; G2: F, group subjected to high fructose (23%) for 6 weeks and G3; F-MEP received fructose duringsix weeks and after received a 15-day treatment of 200mg/kg/day of Euphorbia resinifera propolis methanolic extract of (F-MEP). High fructose administration during prepuberty and adolescence resulted in long-term memory loss and impaired working memory in adult rats. Euphorbia resinifera propolis supplementation significantly increased the recognition index (p < 0.01) compared to the group F, and was able to protect against this effect on F-induced memory (p < 0.01) by a decrease in the synthesis of attacking factors and/or an increase in the production of protective factors. These findings suggest that propolis extract, with its antioxidant compounds, improves memory performance and justifies its use in traditional medicine by the Moroccan population. Euphorbia resinifera propolis supplement could serve as a therapeutic agent for memory disorders caused by fructose feeding.
... To date, more than 180 compounds, mainly polyphenols, have been identified as the components of propolis. Propolis also contains other compounds such as essential oils, aromatic acids, waxes, pollen, vitamins, resins, balsams and various trace elements [5,6]. Under in vitro conditions, propolis has demonstrated effectively inhibit both gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial strains [7,8]. ...
Article
Full-text available
Propolis is a bee product produced as a natural defense mechanism by bees to protect their hives. It consists of plant resins, secretions from bees, and other substances collected from plants, containing biologically active compounds with antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Due to these characteristics, propolis finds applications in various fields. In this study, pure propolis extracts obtained by DMSO, ethanol, methanol, glycerol, acetone and supercritical CO2 extraction of propolis were tested for their antifungal activity against three phytopathogenic fungi, Fusarium oxysporum, Alternaria alternata and Verticillium spp. Antifungal activity tests were conducted in vitro using zone inhibition measurements on PDA medium. Our findings revealed that the antifungal efficacy of propolis and its impact on mycelial growth parameters varied depending on the type of propolis extract used, demonstrating a dose-dependent relationship. In the present study, the ethanol + propolis preparation was found to be more successful in inhibiting the growth of fungal hyphae at a dose of 200 µl for all fungi compared to other solvents. The other solvents showed different levels of inhibition depending on the fungal species. In general, the acetone, DMSO, and glycerol preparations of propolis were less effective in the inhibition of fungal growth. The results obtained indicate that ethanol-based propolis extracts have potential for the control of agriculturally important phytopathogenic fungi.
... Numerous of bioactive constituents of medicinal, pharmaceutical and therapeutic interest are contained in propolis [17]. These pharmacologically active molecules are flavonoids and phenolic acids and their esters [18]. Several studies have asserted that propolis can be used in the treatment of cognitive disorders, neurodegeneration and neurological disorders of the brain due to the potential neuropharmacological, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects of its active constituents [19]. ...
Article
Full-text available
Propolis is a substance marked by honeybees from plant resin to maintain hygienic environment in their hives. Prepuberty and adolescence criticality could be associated with diseases development and brain and memory dysfunctions in adult age. The study aimed to assess the effects of unpredictable chronic mild stress (UCMS) during prepuberty and adolescence and the propolis supplementation on cognitive functions in adult male rats. 18 adult male rats were divided into 3 groups of 6 rats: rats of control group (C) receive normal, stressed group (UCMS) exposed to 2 stressors/day for 6 weeks, and group (UCMS-MEP) exposed to 2 stressors/day for 6 weeks followed by oral supplementation of methanolic extract of propolis MEP (200 mg/kg/day) for 2 weeks. Memory was assessed by using object recognition test and Y-maze test, three-chamber sociability was used to assess social behaviors. Histological analyses of hippocampal and prefrontal cortex were performed. Chronic stress induced long-term memory loss and negative impact on working memory and social behavior deterioration at adulthood, histological analysis that UCMS caused damages in hippocampal and prefrontal cortex. The 15 days propolis supplementation improved memory performance in stressed rats by maintaining the integrity of hippocampal neurons in CA1 and CA3 regions. Also regulate social activity with an increase in the time spent with the stranger rat. Propolis extract exert enhancement effect on memory performance and regulative action on social activity restraining the damage in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus.
... Propolis doğal bir ürün olarak tıpta kullanmak üzere insanların dikkatini binlerce yıl önce çekmiş olup eski dönemlerde Avrupa, Kuzey Afrika, Mısır, Yunan ve Romalılar tarafından değişik hastalıkların tedavi edilmesinde yaygın bir şekilde kullanılmıştır. Özellikle Mısırlılar propolisin çürümeye karşı önemli koruyucu özelliğinden dolayı ölülerin mumyalanmasında yaygın olarak kullanmışlardır (Castolda 2002). ...
Thesis
Full-text available
The aim of this study was to determine the effects of propolis levels MDA, GSH, activities SOD, GSH-Px and CAT on radiation exposed rats. Animals were divided into 3 groups: Group 1: Control, Group 2: Radiation administered, Group 3: Propolis + radiation administered. At the and of the study, the levels of plasma MDA, the levels of GSH, activities of SOD, GSH-Px and CAT were measured. After statistical analyses, the differences between control and radiation treated group of plasma MDA (p<0.001) and erythrocyte GSH (p<0.001) levels, SOD (p<0.001), GSH-Px (p<0.001) and CAT (p<0.001) activites were significant. In comparing between radiation and propolis + radiation groups; while the levels of plasma MDA (p<0.001) were signifacnt, however, levels of GSH (p>0.05) in erythrocyte and activities of SOD, GSH-Px and CAT were not significant.
... A limited number of studies have been conducted on the use of BA in dentistry (10). Apart from these, when we examine the literature, we see that propolis, which is a natural and easy-to-obtain material that is already used in different areas of daily life and has many different biological properties, is also used in dentistry and researches on it are increasing (11). ...
... The use of propolis for the treatment of various ailments in which inflammation and pain are involved is crosscultural and widespread. Its effect against diseases such as dermatological, odontological and gynaecological disorders has been widely reported (Castaldo and Capasso, 2002;De Castro, 2001). The mopping of free radicals generated by neutrophils during inflammation is the main mechanism of action for conventional antiinflammatory drugs. ...
Article
Full-text available
The effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and phosphorous (P) on the growth, nutrient uptake, chlorophyll content and some metabolites of eggplant (Solanum melongena L. VAR. Yalo) were determined under saline conditions, through a greenhouse experiment conducted for six weeks. Seedlings were planted in polythene bags previously filled with sand, 1 g of P and 50 g of AMF for all concentrations (0, 50, 100 and 200 mM NaCl) and supplied with a nutrient solution in a completely randomized design. The results of this study showed that increased concentrations of NaCl in the culture medium significantly (P<0.001) decreased the leaf area, stem height, dry biomass, chlorophyll content, K, Ca and Mg from 100 mM NaCl. The total soluble proteins, proline, total free amino acids, soluble carbohydrates, total phenolic and flavonoids contents increased significantly (P< 0.001) from 50 mM NaCl in all treatments. The findings indicate that P and AMF positively influenced all the study parameters compared to the treatment with NaCl only. The use of (P + AMF) alleviated the toxicity of NaCl, improved growth, physiological and biochemical parameters and its usage could be encouraged for better development of crops in salinity affected areas. Key words: Solanum melongena, phosphorous, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, growth parameters, metabolites, salinity.
... There are natural compounds with immunomodulation properties such as propolis (1,2). Propolis is a resin-brown substance that is collected by worker bees (Apis mellifera meda) and was shown to have boosting effects on Th1 and humoral responses in several vaccine models (3)(4)(5)(6). In the present study, inactivated HSV-1 was formulated in aqueous and alcoholic extracts of propolis derived from the Iranian Honey bee, as an adjuvant, and then the immune responses of the newly formulated vaccine were assessed in mice. ...
Article
Full-text available
Objective(s) In this study, the adjuvant activity of aqueous and alcoholic extracts of propolis was examined on the inactivated herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1). Materials and Methods BALB/C mice were administered with inactivated (HSV-1; the KOS strain) plus alcoholic and aqueous extracts, followed by assessment of the cellular and humoral immune responses. Results Alcoholic and aqueous extracts, as an adjuvant, revealed a significant increase in lymphocyte proliferation and cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) responses versus the HSV-1 group. In addition, HSV-1 plus alcoholic extract showed a remarkable increase in IFN-γ cytokine and IFN-γ/IL-4 ratio. On the other hand, both alcoholic and aqueous extracts in the HSV-1 vaccine suppressed the IL-4 cytokine response as compared with the HSV-1 vaccine. In addition, HSV-1 plus alcoholic extract showed a significant increment in IgG1, IgG2a, and IgG2b isotypes as compared with the HSV-1 vaccine. Conclusion Propolis extracts seem to modulate the immune response against inactivated HSV-1 model and can be used as a suitable vaccine adjuvant or a component of a complex adjuvant against infectious diseases.
... Plant extracts were consistently used to aid in bird growth and help in disease resistance as it has growth-promoting, antibacterial effects (Kumari et al., 2007), immunomodulatory (Fakeye, 2008) and anti-inflammatory properties (Castaldo and Capasso, 2002). ...
Article
It has been indicated that bamboo leaf extract (BLE) displays physiological activities in mammals. The goal of this research was to evaluate the effects of different doses of dietary supplementation of BLE on behavior, inflammation and antioxidant activity of bill trimmed (BT) mule ducks. One hundred-and twenty-one-day-old mule ducklings were randomly divided on 24 floor pens (5 birds per pen), each pen was assigned at random to one of four dietary treatments that each contained the following: a BLE at 0 (Control), 0 (BT-control), 1.0 (BT-BLE1), and 2.0 (BT-BLE2). At 21 d, all birds were exposed to bill trimming except control group. There was a significant rise in serum TNF-α, INF-γ, IL-6, MDA and homocysteine levels while there was a significant drop in the level of TAC in BT-control group as opposed to the control. Both doses of bamboo leaf extracts significantly decreased TNF-α, INF-γ, IL-6, MDA and homocysteine while significantly enhanced TAC activities in comparison with BT-control group, moreover, BT-BLE2 was more efficient in repairing all blood parameters measured than that of BT-BLE1 group. However, there were no significant differences in the gait score, tonic immobility, and stride length tests between all groups. These results suggest that the BLE could inhibit the negative effects of bill trimming on mule ducks health through improvement of immunity and antioxidant status, regulation of inflammatory reactions with a reduction in homocysteine level.
... A própolis é uma substância resinosa produzida, a partir de brotos, botões florais e exsudatos resinosos de plantas, e enriquecida com secreções enzimáticas e salivares de abelhas da espécie Apis mellifera (Park et al., 2002;Castaldo & Capasso, 2002). A função antimicrobiana da própolis vem sendo amplamente estudada, havendo inúmeros relatos de suas funções antimicrobianas em agentes de importância na medicina veterinária (Souza, et al., 2013). ...
Article
Full-text available
A limpeza e desinfecção constituem importantes medidas de biosseguridade adotadas em um ciclo de produção, visando manter baixa a concentrações de agentes patogênicos, reduzindo a probabilidade de infecções. Porém as bactérias podem adquirir resistência aos desinfetantes utilizados para este fim. A própolis, produto natural produzida por abelhas a partir de plantas, possui ação antimicrobiana comprovada, mas são raros os estudos utilizando-a como desinfetante. Neste estudo, um extrato etanólico de própolis verde (EEPV) foi avaliado, em comparação a um desinfetante comercial à base de amônia quaternária, quanto à capacidade desinfetante in situ em bebedouros utilizados para frangos de corte até 28 dias de idade das aves. O EEPV também foi avaliado, in vitro, contra as bactérias isoladas a partir de suabes dos bebedouros utilizados no experimento. Houve um aumento no número de UFC/ml de mesófilos totais e diminuição no número de UFC/ml de bolores totais presentes nos bebedouros à medida que as aves atingiram 28 dias de idade. Aos 28 dias de idade dos frangos, quando o desafio microbiano foi maior, a ação do EEPV como desinfetante foi semelhante à ação do desinfetante comercial a base de amônia quaternária. Nesta mesma idade das aves, o EEPV, assim como o desinfetante comercial, inibiu por completo o crescimento fúngico nos bebedouros.
... Nowadays, natural products are now antimicrobial properties, while in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that honey limits wound infections, enhances tissue regeneration, and inhibits Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria [6][7][8] due to its low pH, osmotic efect, high sugar content, and the presence of hydrogen peroxide, polyphenols, phenolic acids, favonoids and methylglyoxal [9][10][11]. Te propolis has a Greek origin and means defense for ("pro") and the community for ("polis") [12,13]. It is collected by worker bees from the plant's resins, fowers, buds, leaves, stems, and fruits and then mixed with bee hypopharyngeal secretions [14,15]. ...
Article
Full-text available
The current study used a design of experiments to evaluate the potential synergistic effects of three Moroccan bee products (honey (H), propolis (P), and bee pollen (BP)) on the free radical inhibition and antibacterial activity against clinical strains of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The phytochemical contents of these three bee products were first evaluated using HPLC-DAD with 20 identified compounds (9 in both H and P extracts and 13 in BP extract). The P extract had the highest phytochemical content, with high levels of flavanone pinocembrin, flavanol catechin, lignan pinoresinol, and simple phenolics (p-coumaric and gallic acids). Then, the optimized mixtures were determined using an augmented simplex-centroid design. The optimized formulations (H33%:P43%:BP24%) and (H21%:P47%:BP32%) presented the optimal total phenolic content and DPPH-IC50 with 226.88 mgGAE/g and 10.64 µg/mL, respectively, whereas the formulations (H26%:P52%:BP22%) and (H35%:P40%:BP25%) showed the optimal antimicrobial activity against S. aureus (MICS.aureus equal to 4.34 µg/mL) and E. coli (MICE.coli equal to 5.70 µg/mL), respectively. The predicted responses from these mixture proportions were also experimentally validated. Compared to the single free radical activity and antibacterial effect of each isolated bee product, these optimized formulations demonstrated an increased biological activity, and the determination of the fractional inhibitory concentrations revealed a synergistic effect between these products. This study emphasizes the interest in optimized bee product mixtures for practical applications beyond the pharmaceutical and food industries. Their potential can be extended to nutraceuticals, cosmeceuticals, animal health, environmental sustainability, and advanced biomedical research, offering holistic solutions for diverse challenges across various sectors. Exploring these applications further can unlock new avenues for innovation and sustainable development.
... Therapeutically, propolis-based materials are regarded as a promising natural antimicrobial agent with significant pharmaceutical potential, either to prevent or treat various conditions (14,15). For centuries, propolis has been recognised as an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agent, to disinfect wounds and promote their healing (16). More recently, several studies have documented various properties of propolis, including antimicrobial (17), anti-inflammatory (18), antioxidant (19), immunomodulatory (20), biocompatibility (21), and wound healing properties (22). ...
Article
Full-text available
Objective: The use of propolis-based materials within endodontics to promote pulp wound healing or disinfect the root canal system has been a recent focus of scientists and clinicians. This is mainly because of the well-documented antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and wound healing properties of propolis. This scoping review critically appraises the literature on the clinical applications of propolis-based compounds during endodontic therapy of primary and permanent teeth. Methods: An electronic literature search was performed in Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science up to and including October 2023 to identify studies assessing the use of propolis during endodontic therapy of primary and permanent teeth. A combination of relevant MeSh terms and keywords was used. Only human clinical studies written in English were included. The identified manuscripts were screened and assessed for inclusion by two independent authors. Eligible manuscripts were then subjected to critical appraisal and data extraction with the information being summarised according to their clinical application. Results: A total of 26 human clinical studies were identified and included in the analysis. Propolis was investigated for use in the primary and permanent dentitions as a direct pulp capping or pulpotomy material as well as in root canal disinfection and root filling of teeth with non-vital pulps. Overall, the studies reported that the use of propolis was associated with promising outcomes in terms of efficacy to control inflammation, enhance tissue repair, and disinfection of the root canal system. However, a critical appraisal of the studies revealed a range of methodological and reporting deficiencies, resulting in unreliable results and conclusions in terms of the clinical outcomes reported. Conclusion: Although the studies on the use of propolis-based materials in endodontics reported promising clinical outcomes, they had a range of methodological and reporting flaws. Further well-designed and properly reported controlled clinical studies are essential to derive sound evidence-based conclusions on propolis-based materials. Furthermore, guidelines for quality assurance and safe use of propolis-based materials are necessary to enhance their production for commercial use in endodontics.
... A própolis é um dos poucos remédios naturais que manteve sua popularidade durante um longo período de tempo (CASTALDO; CAPASSO, 2002). O seu uso, pela medicina popular, data de 300 a.C (BANSKOTA et al., 2001). ...
Article
Full-text available
A própolis é um material resinoso coletado pelas abelhas por diversas partes das plantas, como folhas, brotos, sendo utilizados para embalsar animais que tenham morrido dentro da colmeia, vedar as paredes e conferir proteção frente às doenças. A utilização desse produto natural com finalidade medicinal remete a antiguidade, tendo evidências de seu emprego junto as antigas civilizações, como a Grega, Romana e Egípcia, mantendo-se até os dias atuais com finalidades terapêuticas, médicas e veterinárias. O objetivo desse trabalho foi examinar a citotoxicidade in vitro do extrato da própolis em vinho branco contra gêneros específicos de fungos, desmitificando a atividade antifúngica para determinadas cepas. Foram utilizadas amostras de própolis produzidas por abelhas Apis melífera, chegando à forma in natura, sendo trituradas e misturadas ao vinho branco, tendo como produto final o extrato da própolis, para posteriormente apresentar as concentrações desejadas para pesquisa, sendo estas 0,5%, 1,0% e 2,0%, e em seguida, utilizado como tratamento antifúngico contra as cepas Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Madurella mycetomatis, De modo geral, os extratos de própolis vermelha oriunda da cidade Baía da Traição, município do estado da Paraíba, na região do Nordeste brasileiro, não possui potencial antifúngico contra as espécies do gênero nas concentrações de (0,5%, 1,0% e 2,0%), utilizando-se de vinho branco para construção de seu extrato. Os resultados evidenciam baixo efeito citotóxico sobre as cepas estudadas.
... 6,7 Propolis has also been utilized as a remedy for various maladies in folk medicine and food industry possessing infinite potential for application in human and veterinary medicine. 8 This also makes them an alternative source of food and nutraceuticals. ...
Article
Full-text available
Background Bee products are gaining interest in the field of research due to their biochemical and nutritive properties. Honey bee products have been researched extensively but little has been done in regards to stingless bees. There are many species of stingless bees including Plebeina armata, which are found in the Afrotropics. They are underground nesting and produce honey, propolis, wax, pollen and bee bread. These products are known to be rich in polyphenols that comprise of flavonoids and phenolic. In our study, we analysed colorimetrically the total flavonoid, phenolic content and radical scavenging activity of honey (n = 22) and propolis (n = 25) from Bomet, Kisii and Maralal in Kenya. Results Honey and propolis had total flavonoid content of 12.00–22.67 mg QE/100 g and 288.15–944.76 mg QE/100 g while total phenolic content was 87.01–239.93 mg GAE/100 g and 524.14–1225.01 mg GAE/100 g, respectively. In considerations to the regions, Maralal had the highest phenolic and flavanoid content followed by Bomet and Kisii was the least. The same trend was observed in the radical scavenging activity. Except for the total flavonoid content in honey, the difference was significant (p < 0.05). Conclusion The polyphenol content of both honey and propolis of P. armata are equally affected by geographical location as a result of different vegetation. They are good source of antioxidants, which can be utilized in diet due to their radical scavenging properties.
... Propolis, also known as bee gum, is a resinous substance placed by bees of different species. It has antioxidant properties as an active medicinal substance because of its phenolic elements, esters, and flavonoids [1,2]. The overall chemical composition of most propolis is quite similar. ...
Article
Full-text available
Background and Aim Doxorubicin (DOX) is often used as a chemotherapeutic agent, although it may damage testicular functions. This study was designed to investigate the protective effects of propolis on testicular histological changes, semen parameters, and testosterone concentrations as a means of protecting against testicular damage caused by DOX chemotherapy. Materials and Methods Forty-eight male Wistar rats were divided into four groups with 12 animals per group. The first group served as the control. Rats in the second group were administered 4 mg/kg DOX. The third group was administered 4 mg/kg of DOX and 30 mg/kg b.w. propolis. The fourth group was orally dosed daily with 30 mg/kg b.w. propolis. Results DOX treatment resulted in a significantly decreased weight gain (WG) rate compared with the control, whereas DOX + propolis resulted in improved WG and returned to the normal range. Testosterone levels were comparable among the experimental groups, with a significant increase in the propolis-treated group. In addition, DOX-treated groups exhibited a remarkable depletion in sperm counts, motility, and viability compared to the other groups. Conclusion Most of the histological and hormonal changes resulting from the toxicity of DOX returned to almost normal after treatment of rats with the aqueous extract of propolis, indicating that propolis ameliorated the effects of DOX poisoning on testicular function in male rats.
Article
Full-text available
Contamination with heavy metal ions from mining activities presents a major environmental issue. This study investigates pollution caused by heavy metals from mining, with a particular emphasis on toxic ions and essential ions for living organisms. It starts by analyzing the sources of pollution and its effects on soil, vegetation, water, and wildlife (propolis produced by honey bees living in natural environments). Propolis is an indicator of environmental contamination by metals, a natural and valuable product of natural ecosystems. As part of the investigation, the contamination with metal cations (Pb²⁺, Cu²⁺, Cd²⁺, Zn²⁺, As³⁺, Fe²⁺, and Sr²⁺) of the soil, cultivated vegetables (carrot, turnip, onion, potato) was monitored in 9 points in the Roșia Montană area, Romania, as well as the river that runs through the area. The maximum values of the parameters investigated were recorded in soil (108.32 mg/kg Pb²⁺, 23.06 mg/kg Cd²⁺, 102.17 mg/kg As³⁺), river water (11.00 µg/L Pb²⁺, 903.47 µg/L Cu²⁺, 60.13 µg/L Cd²⁺, 1903.08 µg/L Zn²⁺, 148.07 µg/L As³⁺, 44,024.08 µg/L Fe²⁺), vegetables (0.72 mg/kg Pb²⁺, 0.17 mg/kg Cd²⁺) and it was followed whether the same heavy metals are found in propolis (maximum values 10.14 mg/kg Pb²⁺, 6.32 mg/kg Cu²⁺, 0.158 mg/kg Cd²⁺, 6.0 Zn²⁺, 1.04 mg/kg As³⁺, 12.06 mg/kg Sr²⁺). The parameters analyzed for the river waters were pH, sulfates, the oxygen and nutrient regime, and microbial load. Additional investigations were carried out into the quality of these propolis samples: water activity, moisture, hygroscopicity, water solubility, volatile oils, oxidation index, measuring point, density, dry matter, material insoluble in ethanol, extractable with ethanol, ash, and wax. The highest values were 189.4 mg GAE/g for phenols, 84.31 mg QE/g for flavonoids, and 0.086 µg/mL for IC50 antioxidant activity. This study indicates that bee products, such as propolis, can be an indicator of pollution in mining areas.
Article
This study investigates the pharmaceutical potential both in vitro and in silico of ethanolic propolis extract from three Algerian regions namely TAH (Tahir–Jijel), ATH (Oued Athmania–Mila) and OZ (Oued Zhor‐skikda). Twenty‐three compounds were identified via HPLC‒DAD, with key constituents including caffeic acid, cynarin, chrysin, naringin, and hesperetin. Moreover, Antioxidant and anti‐Alzheimer activities were assessed by multiple assays. Antimicrobial activity was tested against four pathogens and one yeast. The TAH extract showed the highest antioxidant activity, and ATH (Oued Athmania–Mila) exhibited the strongest anticholinesterase activity. Extracts demonstrated potent inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus and Micrococcus luteus ATCC 4698. Docking studies revealed that cynarin was the most potent acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitor, and quercetin was the most potent butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) inhibitor; These compounds were found to bind to both the catalytic site and the peripheral site, showing greater inhibitory potency than galantamine.
Article
Background Oxidative stress is one of the main hits in the pathogenesis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Propolis (PRP), a natural substance made by bees from plant extracts, has been reported to have antioxidant properties. The present clinical trial investigated the effect of Iranian PRP on prooxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB), oxidative stress biomarkers, and body composition in obese patients with NAFLD. Methods In the present double-blind, randomized controlled clinical trial, 44 obese patients with NAFLD were randomly allocated to either Iranian PRP (1500 mg/d) or placebo (1500 mg/d) accompanied by a calorie-restricted diet (CRD) for eight weeks. PAB, oxidative stress biomarkers, and body composition were assessed at baseline and the end of the study. Results There was a significant reduction in PAB levels over the trial in both groups. However, the between-group difference was not significant at the endpoint. At the end of the study, the inter-group comparison showed a significant decrease in serum glutathione peroxidase level in the placebo group compared to the PRP group after adjusting for confounding variables based on models 1 (P=0.027) and 2 (P=0.028). No significant within- or between-group differences in other studied oxidative stress biomarkers were found. Moreover, no between-group differences were observed for body composition and dietary intakes of energy and antioxidant micronutrients. Conclusion Iranian PRP supplementation (1500 mg/d) for eight weeks could prevent the reduction of glutathione peroxidase levels compared to the control group. However, it could not affect other oxidative stress biomarkers, body composition, or dietary intakes of energy and antioxidant micronutrients.
Article
Hyperinflammation is significant factor in long COVID, impacting over 65 million post‐COVID‐19 individuals globally. Herbal remedies, including propolis, show promise in reducing severity and pro‐inflammatory cytokines. However, the natural pharmacological role of propolis in COVID‐19 management remains underexplored. Employing network pharmacology and in silico techniques, we assessed propolis extract's potential in countering SARS‐CoV‐2‐induced inflammation. We identified 80 flavonoids via LC‐MS/MS QTOF and employed 11 anti‐inflammatory drugs as references for inflammation target fishing. Utilizing in silico techniques encompassing target fishing, molecular docking, and dynamics, we examined propolis' effects. We identified 1105 gene targets connected to inflammation through multiple validated target predictors. By integrating SARS‐CoV‐2 DEGs from GSE147507 with these targets, we Identify precisely 25 inflammation‐COVID‐19‐associated propolis targets, including STAT1, NOS2, CFB, EIF2K2, NPY5R, and BTK. Enrichment analyses highlighted primary pharmacological pathways related to Epstein‐Barr virus infection and COVID‐19. Molecular docking validated Isokaempferide, Iristectorigenin B, 3’‐Methoxypuerarin, Cosmosin, and Baicalein‐7‐O‐β‐D glucopyranoside, which exhibited strong binding affinity and stability with relevant genes. Moreover, our findings indicate that propolis ligands could potentially suppress reactivation of Epstein‐Barr Virus infections in post‐COVID‐19 cases. These findings highlight propolis as potential supplement to alleviate inflammation in COVID‐19 patients and those with prolonged symptoms, requiring additional clinical validation for confirmation.
Article
Purpose Recent trials have found that propolis supplementation can beneficially reduce blood pressure (BP) in adults, but there is no definitive consensus on this topic. The purpose of this study is to provide an overview and update the current documents regarding the effects of propolis supplementation on BP by presenting a systematic review and meta-analysis. Design/methodology/approach The systematic search was conducted, considering all studies published up to July 2024, in the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library and ISI Web of Science. Data were pooled by using the random-effects model, and weighted mean difference (WMD) was considered as the summary effect size. Findings In this systematic review and meta-analysis, eight clinical trials were included. The obtained results show that propolis supplementation caused a significant decrease in systolic BP (WMD = −3.93 mmHg, 95% CI = −7.05 to −0.82, p = 0.01 and I2 = 45.2%). However, the meta-analysis results showed that propolis supplementation did not significantly change the levels of diastolic BP (WMD = −1.64 mmHg, 95% CI = −4.60 to 1.32, p = 0.27 and I2 = 74.0%). Originality/value The findings of this study suggest that propolis supplementation may be used as a dietary supplement to improve systolic BP, but further studies are needed to confirm these results.
Article
Lebah Trigona sp. merupakan jenis lebah yang menghasilkan madu dan mudah dibudidayakan di Indonesia. Salah satu daerah yang berpotensi untuk dapat dibudidayakan yaitu di Desa Sedau Kecamatan Lombok Barat Kabupaten Lombok Barat, NTB. Sebagian besar masyarakatnya bekerja pada sektor pertanian dan peternakan yang memanfaatkan sumberdaya dalam kawasan HKM. Produk budidaya lebah berupa madu bertujuan untuk meningkatkan aktivitas harian serta perekonomian masyarakan. Mendorong masyarakat untuk melakukan kegiatan pada lahan kosong, kebun atau lahan-lahan kering sehingga mengalihkan perhatian masyarakat beraktivitas dalam kawasan hutan. Pelaksanaan program diawali dengan koordinasi dengan pihak Desa dimana melibatkan Kepala Desa sebagai tahap awal perizinan kegiatan dilaksanakan. Selanjutnya pelaksanaan sosialisasi dan pembekalan budidaya lebah yang telah kami pelajari dari peternak lebah professional dan proses meonitoring budidaya lebah.
Article
Full-text available
For centuries, people have used apitherapy, the therapeutic use of bee products like propolis, honey, bee venom, wax, pollen, and royal jelly, to prevent and treat various diseases. Propolis is well-known for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antioxidant properties. It contains over 300 bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, phenolics, and aromatic substances. Recent studies have highlighted its growing application in dentistry, especially in products like toothpaste, mouthwashes, and sprays, which have demonstrated efficacy in preventing dental caries, reducing gum inflammation, and accelerating the healing of oral ulcers. Moreover, due to its antioxidant capacity, propolis may help mitigate oxidative stress, potentially contributing to the prevention of oral cancer. Given its therapeutic potential in both oral health and oncology, propolis emerges as a promising natural treatment option. However, further in-depth studies are required to fully elucidate its clinical potential and verify its efficacy and safety. Review (HRU Int J Dent Oral Res 2024; 4(2): 74-81)
Article
Propolis has been used by humans since ancient times, it was known in Egypt and Greece. Propolis contains many biologically active compounds: antioxidants, flavonoids, phenolic acids, vitamins, etc. Due to the content of antioxidant polyphenols, propolis has high antioxidant activity and many therapeutic effects: anti-carcinogenic, antiviral, antidiabetic, antibacterial. Propolis is recognized as a therapeutic agent with cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory properties. The paper provides information on the anti-oxidant activity of propolis from 8 regions of Bashkortostan, the most honey-bearing republic of the Russian Federation.
Article
Full-text available
Innovative types of dressings should manifest biodegradability and non-immunogenicity and prevent dehydration. The mentioned technological features are demonstrated by polymeric, nonwoven propolis dressings, which exhibit regenerative properties, produced with the implementation of the electrospinning method. These features are highly needed in the course of burn wound healing. To analyze the dynamics of the changes in content of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), such as heparan sulfates and hyaluronan, a well-known protocol of burn wound healing (the Hoekstra model) was used. Burn wounds were subsequently treated with nonwoven dressings containing either 5% wt or 10% wt propolis. Control groups were treated with either a saline salt solution or nonwoven dressings without propolis. Statistical differences between groups were determined by a multivariate analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey’s post hoc tests. Evaluation of the effectiveness of nonwoven dressings containing 5% wt and 10% wt propolis in healing burn wounds, based on the dynamics and concentration of GAGs, revealed apitherapeutic positive effects on injured tissue healing. This research underscores the advantageous impact of utilizing nonwoven dressings containing propolis for the treatment of burn wounds.
Article
Wound infection and excessive blood loss are the two major challenges associated with trauma injuries that account for 10% of annual deaths in the United States. Nitric oxide (NO) is a gasotransmitter cell signaling molecule that plays a crucial role in the natural wound healing process due to its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, cell proliferation, and tissue remodeling abilities. Tranexamic acid (TXA), a prothrombotic agent, has been used topically and systemically to control blood loss in reported cases of epistaxis and combat-related trauma injuries. Its properties could be incorporated in wound dressings to induce immediate clot formation, which is a key factor in controlling excessive blood loss. This study introduces a novel, instant clot-forming NO-releasing dressing, and fabricated using a strategic bi-layer configuration. The layer adjacent to the wound was designed with TXA suspended on a resinous bed of propolis, which is a natural bioadhesive possessing antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. The base layer, located furthest away from the wound, has an NO donor, S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine (SNAP), embedded in a polymeric bed of Carbosil®, a copolymer of polycarbonate urethane and silicone. Propolis was integrated with a uniform layer of TXA in variable concentrations: 2.5, 5.0, and 7.5 vol % of propolis. This design of the TXA-SNAP-propolis (T-SP) wound dressing allows TXA to form a more stable clot by preventing the lysis of fibrin. The lactate dehydrogenase-based platelet adhesion assay showed an increase in fibrin activation with 7.5% T-SP as compared with control within the first 15 min of its application. A scanning electron microscope (SEM) confirmed the presence of a dense fibrin network stabilizing the clot for fabricated dressing. The antibacterial activity of NO and propolis resulted in a 98.9 ± 1% and 99.4 ± 1% reduction in the colony-forming unit of Staphylococcus aureus and multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii, respectively, which puts forward the fabricated dressing as an emergency first aid for traumatic injuries, preventing excessive blood loss and soil-borne infections.
Article
This study was carried out to determine whether it is better to spray a preservative coating of propolis on the food packaging material or directly onto meat and cheddar cheese. To test this, the surfaces of a vacuum bag (Polyamide/Polyethylene-PA/PE), some stretch film (Low Density Polyethylene- LDPE) and a ziploc bag (Oriented Polypropylene-OPP) and food samples were coated by spraying them with a propolis-ethyl acetate (PEA) solution. Moreover, a propolis-propylene glycol (PPG) solution was sprayed directly on the food surfaces (cheese and meat) to study the shelf life of these products without packaging. Meat and cheddar cheese placed in packages and covered with a PPG solution were stored at 4°C for 30 and 45 days, respectively. The predominant phenolic compound in the propolis used in the study was caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) at a level of 27.523,4 μg g-1, and the lowest amount of phenolic acid was epigallocatechin gallate at 287.53 μg g-1. At the end of the storage period, the Enterobacteriaceae count of the meat sample stored in propolis sprayed vacuum packaging decreased by 1.01 log CFU g-1 (p˂0.05) compared to the control, and achieved the best result. It was concluded that the PPG solution applied onto the meat did not adhere well to it and the solution could not achieve its antimicrobial effect. At the end of the storage period, while the cheddar cheese sample kept in a propolis-treated vacuum bag had the lowest TMAB count for 21 days (p˂0.05), PPG directly sprayed on cheddar cheese had the lowest TMAB count at the end of storage with 6.64 log CFU g-1 (p˂0.05). The PPG solution was able to adhere to the surface of the cheddar cheese and propolis was able to show its antimicrobial activity. In addition, the LAB (MRS) value for the cheddar cheese sample stored in propolis-treated vacuum packaging decreased by 0.60 log CFU g-1 (p˂0.05) compared to the control and achieved the best result. Microbiological analysis showed that propolis coating in vacuum packaging improved the microbiological quality of the meat and the cheddar cheese.
Article
The concept of Ecosystem Services (ES) recognizes the importance of natural ecosystems in supporting human well-being. Hymenoptera, a diverse group of insects including ants, bees, and wasps, play crucial roles in providing ESs. Despite their significance, the provision of ESs by Hymenoptera is often undervalued, leading to ecosystem degradation and loss of important services. This study focuses on the association between Hymenoptera and a rupicolous bromeliad species (Encholirium spectabile) and explores the ESs promoted directly and indirectly by these insects. The study area is located in the Caatinga region of Brazil, characterized by irregular rainfall and a dry season. The results show that Hymenoptera, particularly bees, ants, and wasps, provide a range of ESs including pollination, honey production, pest control, cultural symbolism, and educational value. These services are vital for plant reproduction, food production, and ecosystem functioning in both seasons; there are no differences in species richness between seasons, but rather in species composition. Understanding the importance of Hymenoptera for ESs is crucial for informing conservation and management practices to ensure the sustainability of natural ecosystems. The study highlights the need for conservation actions to protect the intricate ecological relationships between Hymenoptera and bromeliads, which indirectly support ESs by providing habitat and resources, especially during droughts when resources are scarce in the region. By recognizing the importance of bromeliads in supporting Hymenopteran communities, conservation efforts can focus on preserving these critical ecological interactions and maintaining ES provision.
Article
Full-text available
The concept of Ecosystem Services (ES) recognizes the importance of natural ecosystems in supporting human well-being. Hymenoptera, a diverse group of insects including ants, bees, and wasps, play crucial roles in providing ESs. Despite their significance, the provision of ESs by Hymenoptera is often undervalued, leading to ecosystem degradation and loss of important services. This study focuses on the association between Hymenoptera and a rupicolous bromeliad species (Encholirium spectabile) and explores the ESs promoted directly and indirectly by these insects. The study area is located in the Caatinga region of Brazil, characterized by irregular rainfall and a dry season. The results show that Hymenoptera, particularly bees, ants, and wasps, provide a range of ESs including pollination, honey production, pest control, cultural symbolism, and educational value. These services are vital for plant reproduction, food production, and ecosystem functioning in both seasons; there are no differences in species richness between seasons, but rather in species composition. Understanding the importance of Hymenoptera for ESs is crucial for informing conservation and management practices to ensure the sustainability of natural ecosystems. The study highlights the need for conservation actions to protect the intricate ecological relationships between Hymenoptera and bromeliads, which indirectly support ESs by providing habitat and resources, especially during droughts when resources are scarce in the region. By recognizing the importance of bromeliads in supporting Hymenopteran communities , conservation efforts can focus on preserving these critical ecological interactions and maintaining ES provision.
Article
Full-text available
Propolis is a resinous mixture produced by honeybees, which has been used since ancient times for its useful properties. However, its chemical composition and bioactive activity may vary, depending on...
Article
Full-text available
Propolis is a mixture made by bees consisting of plant resins and metabolites, salivary enzymes and wax. Some species of bees add soil to this mixture forming geopropolis. This material is used in the defense of the hive as a physical barrier and antimicrobial agent, ensuring the health of the colony. Propolis has been extensively studied and several chemical constituents have been identified, mainly flavonoids, terpenes and phenolics. With the emerging microbial resistance to antibiotics, the interest in the search for active compounds, mainly secondary metabolites of plants, has been increasing significantly. In this paper, we describe the characteristics of the main species of native stingless bees found in South America, especially in Brazil, the ancestral use of propolis produced by them, its chemical composition and its potential for the development of new therapeutic compounds, along with the challenges that the survival of bees face.
Article
Full-text available
The objective of this work was to evaluate the analgesic activity of an aqueous extract of Mexican native propolis (AEP) on Balb C male mice and proving that it contains polyphenolic compounds in its chemical composition. The AEP inhibited acetic acid-induced abdominal contortions with an ID 50 =66 ± 6.7 mg/Kg. The time lag was extended from 5 to 15 and 30 minutes corresponding to 100 and 200 mg/ Kg doses and the greatest inhibition (95.8 ± 0.63%) was observed at the dose of 200 mg/Kg. AEP analgesic activity was antagonised with Naloxone (0.5 to 3 mg/ Kg i.p.), this could means that the endogenous opioid system is involved. The thin layer chromatography and spectrophotometric UV-Vis analysis of AEP revealed a high flavonoid and phenolic compounds content. The AEP obtained from a semi-arid region in Mexico had analgesic activity in a chemically-induced abdominal constriction assay model that could be related to its polyphenolic compounds content. RESUMEN El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la actividad analgésica de un extracto acuoso de propóleo (EAP) mexicano en un modelo murino de dolor visceral y caracterizar el contenido de metabolitos secundarios principalmente compuestos polifenólicos. El EAP disminuyó el número de contracciones abdominales inducidas en los ratones mediante la administración de ácido acético, determinándose una ID 50 =66 ± 6.7 mg/ Kg. El periodo de latencia se amplió desde 5 minutos para el grupo control hasta 15 y 30 minutos correspondientes a las dosis de 100 y 200 mg/Kg. El porcentaje mayor de inhibición del número de contracciones fue de 95.8 ± 0.63% y se alcanzó con la dosis de 200 mg/Kg. La actividad antinociceptiva fue antagonizada con Na-loxone en una forma dosis dependiente lo que pudiera sugerir que el sistema opioide está involucrado. El análisis fitoquímico por cromatografía en capa delgada indicó alto contenido de flavonoides y los ensayos espectrofotométricos UV-Vis señalan la presencia de compuestos fenólicos. Se concluye que el EAP presentó actividad 98 M. Galván valencia, G.P. Hernández delGadillo, B.l. García Macías, s.M. durón torres
Article
Two new epoxylignans, trigonan A ( 1 ) and trigonan B ( 2 ), were isolated from EtOAc extract of Vietnamese stingless bee propolis Trigona minor (Meliponini, Apidae), together with 15 known compounds. Their chemical structures were determined by extensive NMR and MS spectroscopic analysis. All compounds were tested for DPPH free radical scavenging activity; as a result, methoxylariciresinol ( 14 ) showed the best significant DPPH inhibitory activity with IC 50 value of 3.0 μM, and had stronger activity than that of a positive control, trolox (IC 50 , 8.2 μM). In the α‐ glucosidase inhibitory activity, syringaresinol ( 10 ) displayed the best activity with IC 50 value of 17.8 μM, and its activity was more than a positive control, acarbose (IC 50 , 185.2 μM). For the cytotoxic activity against the HeLa cell line, de‐4'‐ O ‐methyleudesmin ( 7 ) exhibited the most cytotoxicity with IC 50 value of 46.3 μM and was quite weaker than that of a positive control, paclitaxel (IC 50 , 0.0014 μM).
Article
Full-text available
Potential protective effects of ethanolic extract of Cuban red propolis against toxicity induced by allyl alcohol in mice was investigated. Propolis at doses of 25, 50 and 100 mg/i.p. significantly decreased the activity of alanine amino transferase (EC 2.6.1.2) in serum and the levels of mal-ondialdehyde in mouse liver after induction with a dose of 64 mg/kg of allyl alcohol. However, propolis did not increase the concentration of reduced glutathione in mouse liver which is depleted by allyl alcohol. Propolis also reduced liver damage induced by allyl alcohol in mice. This effect was observed by electron microscopy. The hepatoprotective effects of propolis were dose-dependent and they were produced when propolis was administered 30 min before allyl alcohol administration. It is indicated that the ethanolic extract of red propolis exerts potential hepatoprotective effects in this experimental model which is probably caused by antioxidative properties (e.g. scavenging action against oxygen radicals) of this extract.
Article
Full-text available
New information published since 1995 about propolis constituents is reviewed. The available information on the biological action of new found components is presented. Recent publications are reviewed on propolis of native South American stingless bees. The plant sources of bee glue are discussed, taking into consideration data based on reliable chemical evidence including comparisons between propolis samples and plant material. Some aspects of the chemical standardization of propolis are discussed.
Article
Full-text available
As part of our previous search for new compounds with improved biological activities including antibiotic, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and tumor growth inhibition activities, we synthesized some caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE)-like compounds from commercially available caffeic acid. Nine chemicals were tested by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay on the growth of buccal mucosal fibroblast (BF), oral submucosus fibroblast (OSF), neck metastasis of Gingiva carcinoma (GNM), and tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCCa) cells. CAPE and its ethyl analogue show significant cytotoxicity on OSF, GNM, and TSCCa cells, but not on BF cells. The results suggest that CAPE-like compounds may be potential chemotherapy agents against oral cancer.
Article
Celastrus paniculatus L. (Celastraceae) (CP), Picrorhiza kurroa L. (Scrophulariaceae) (PK) and Withania somnifera L. (Solanaceae) (WS) are Indian medicinal plants having a remarkable reputation, as a factor of health care, among the indigenous medical practitioners. The plants exhibit varying degrees of therapeutic value some of which useful in the treatment of cognitive dysfunction, epilepsy, insomnia, rheumatism, gout, dyspepsia. In this work, we have investigated the free radical scavenging capacity of methanolic extracts from CP, PK, WS and the effect on DNA cleavage induced by H2O2 UV-photholysis. In addition, we investigated whether these plant extracts are capable of reducing the hydrogen peroxide-induced cytotoxicity and DNA damage in human non-immortalized fibroblasts. These extracts showed a dose-dependent free radical scavenging capacity and a protective effect on DNA cleavage; methanolic extracts from PK was more active than extracts from CP and WS. These results were confirmed by a significant protective effect on H2O2-induced cytoxicity and DNA damage in human non-immortalized fibroblasts. These antioxidant effects of active principle of CP, PK and WS may explain, at least in part, the reported anti-stress, immunomodulatory, cognition-facilitating, anti-inflammatory and antiaging effects produced by them in experimental animal and in clinical situations and may justify the further investigation of their other beneficial biological properties.
Article
Some commercial extracts of propolis obtained with different solvents were tested to evaluate their antibacterial and antifungal activity. All propolis preparations exhibited antimicrobial activity, particularly against Gram-positive bacteria, yeasts and dermatophytes with zones of inhibition ranging from 3 to 30 mm. Against yeasts and dermatophytes, oil, ethanol and propylene glycol solutions showed an inhibition for more 2 weeks, while the glycerine solution maintained inhibition only for some days. The results indicate that the solvent employed for the extraction may enhance the potency of the antimicrobial activity of propolis. Consistency in the properties and characteristics of propolis were related to the formulation of extraction procedures.
Article
The effects of an ethanolic extract of Cuban red propolis were examined using the model of acute hepatotoxicity induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCL4) in rats. Propolis extract at doses of 5, 10 and 25 mg/kg i.p. decreased significantly the activity of alanine aminotransferase and the concentration of malondialdehyde in rat serum as well as the concentration of triglycerides in liver which were increased in CCI4-treated animals. An ethanol extract of red propolis also reduced liver damage induced by CCI4 in rats. This effect was observed by electron microscopy. According to our results it is concluded that ethanolic extract of red propolis exerts hepatoprotective effects in this experimental model which are probably caused by antioxidative properties (e.g. scavenging action against oxygen radicals) of this extract.
Article
Artificially induced bone tissue losses after the application of ethanol extract of propolis (EEP) showed an accelerated rate of ossification. The osteogenetic process was just about half as long as in the control group.
Article
Dressing of artificially formed losses of the cartilaginous tissue with the preparation containing ethanol extract of propolis (EEP) caused acceleration of regenerating processes in the lesioned cartilage. EEP inserted into the joint is well tolerated.
Article
The efficacy of the water-soluble derivative (WSD) of natural propolis (bee glue) was examined for augmentation of host resistance against experimental infections caused by Gram-negative pathogens (Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus vulgaris, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa). The substance was found to induce significant non-specific protection, but did not inhibit the in vitro growth of the same strains. Pretreatment with WSD prior to the standard scheme for tumour necrosis factor (TNF) induction (BCG and two weeks later lipopolysaccharide (LPS)) provoked an interval-dependent reduction in the lytic capacity of serum against L 929 target cells. The replacement of the triggering or priming signal with WSD markedly increased TNF production. In vivo administration of WSD led to a rapid and route-dependent change in the alternative complement pathway haemolysis. The alteration in C1q complement component and total protein synthesis, and also in nitroblue tetrazolium reduction, suggests that macrophage activation makes a major contribution to the capacity of WSD to prevent infections.
Article
The antiviral activity of six synthetic substances, esters of substituted cinnamic acids, identical with or analogous to some of the constituents of the Et2O fraction of propolis was studied in vitro. One of them, isopentyl ferulate, inhibited significantly the infectious activity of influenza virus A/Hong Kong (H3N2) in vitro and the production of hemagglutinins in ovo. By the use of diverse experimental patterns, it was found that the maximal inhibition of viral reproduction was observed when test substances were present in the medium during the whole infectious process.
Article
Propolis bee preparations revealed good antibacterial (particularly against Gram-positive bacteria), antifungal (against those responsible for superficial and dermatomycoses) and antiinflammatory (against acute and chronic models of inflammation) effects but no antiamoebic or antipyretic capacity.
Article
The clinic evaluation of the canadian pharmacologic agent "propolis" verified its value known from the literature in common cold infections. 50 persons were treated in ENT Clinic of Marcinkowski's Medical Academy in Poznań during the 1987 year. The observed therapeutic effects were shortening of the disease duration. The regression of symptoms occurred in the first day of the therapy and the complete recovery followed in 1 day in 5 patients, in 2 day in 16, and in 3 day in 3. The placebo group has his full recovery in mean 4.80 days. In the therapeutic group the symptoms lasted 2.5 time shorter than in placebo one.
Article
Microcalorimetric and electron microscopic studies on the mode of the antibacterial action of propolis were performed on Streptococcus agalactiae. It was shown that propolis inhibits bacterial growth by preventing cell division, thus resulting in the formation of pseudo-multicellular streptococci. In addition, propolis disorganized the cytoplasm, the cytoplasmic membrane, and the cell wall, caused a partial bacteriolysis, and inhibited protein synthesis. It was evident that the mechanism of action of propolis on bacterial cells is complex and a simple analogy cannot be made to the mode of action of any classic antibiotics.
Article
The ethanolic extracts of two types of cuban propolis (R and P) showed a similar manner of scavenging action against different species of oxygen radicals which were generated by specific chemical reactions. Chemiluminescence produced by superoxide generated from the xanthine-xanthine oxidase reaction was 50% inhibited by approximately 5 micrograms/ml of propolis R and 9.5 micrograms/ml of propolis P and by catechin (0.15 micrograms/ml) and superoxide dismutase (72 ng/ml). Alkoxy radical scavenging effect was similar to that produced by 0.11 micrograms/ml of alpha-tocopherol: inhibition of chemiluminescence by 50% was caused by approximately 0.6 micrograms/ml of both propolis preparations. The results indicate that the antioxidative properties of both propolis could be attributed to their free radical scavenging activity against alkoxy radicals and to a lesser degree against superoxide.
Article
Ethanolic extract of propolis (EEP), known to possess marked antibacterial activity, was incubated with 8 different common antibiotics in culture medium containing a fixed amount of a standard strain of Staphylococcus aureus. The antibiotic compounds used were: penicillin G, doxycycline, streptomycin, cloxacillin, chloramphenicol, cefradine, ampicillin and polymyxin B. They were used in varying levels, ranging between 0.000005-125.0 micrograms/ml or units, resp. Firstly, their minimal inhibitory concentrations were established in the absence of EEP, than EEP was added in concentrations up to 600 micrograms/ml. EEP had a marked synergistic effect on the antibacterial activity of streptomycin and cloxacillin, and a moderate synergistic effect on the others, except ampicillin.
Article
Cigarette smoking and abnormal serum cholesterol concentrations are risk factors for acute coronary syndromes, but the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. We studied whether cigarette smoking and abnormal cholesterol values may precipitate acute coronary thrombosis and sudden death resulting from either rupture of vulnerable coronary plaques or erosion of plaques. We examined the hearts of 113 men with coronary disease who had died suddenly and also analyzed their coronary risk factors. We found an acute coronary thrombus in each of 59 men, and severe narrowing of the coronary artery by an atherosclerotic plaque without acute thrombosis (stable plaque) in 54. Cases of acute thrombosis were divided into two groups: 41 resulting from rupture of a vulnerable plaque (a thin fibrous cap overlying a lipid-rich core), and 18 resulting from the erosion of a fibrous plaque rich in smooth-muscle cells and proteoglycans. Vulnerable plaques that had not ruptured were counted in each heart. Cigarette smoking was a risk factor in 44 (75 percent) of the men with acute thrombosis, as compared with 22 (41 percent) of the men with stable plaques (P<0.001). The mean (+/-SD) ratio of serum total cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol was markedly elevated in the men who died of acute thrombosis with plaque rupture (mean, 8.5+/-4.0) but only mildly elevated in the men without acute thrombosis (5.5+/-2.4; P<0.001) and in the men with thrombi overlying eroded plaques (5.0+/-1.8; P<0.001). Multivariate analysis showed an association between an elevated ratio of serum total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol and the presence of vulnerable plaques (P<0.001). Among men with coronary disease who die suddenly, abnormal serum cholesterol concentrations - particularly elevated ratios of total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol - predispose patients to rupture of vulnerable plaques, whereas cigarette smoking predisposes patients to acute thrombosis.
Article
The EtOAc-soluble fraction of the MeOH extract of propolis afforded a new prenylated chromane derivative, 3-hydroxy-2, 2-dimethyl-8-prenylchromane-6-propenoic acid (1), along with 22 known compounds, 2-23. Of the known compounds, 4, 7, 12-19, and 22 were isolated for the first time from propolis, and the absolute configuration of 23 was established as (2S,3R). Investigation suggested that Baccharis spp. are a significant source of tropical Brazilian propolis, in addition to Clusia minor, Clusia major, and Araucaria heterophylla. All the compounds were tested for their cytotoxicity toward human HT-1080 fibrosarcoma and murine colon 26-L5 carcinoma cells. Among these compounds, 9 and 19-21 showed potent cytotoxicity, having ED50 values equal to or less than 10 microg/mL.
Article
Artepillin C was extracted from Brazilian propolis. Artepillin C (3,5-diprenyl-4-hydroxycinnamic acid) has a molecular weight of 300.40 and possesses antibacterial activity. When artepillin C was applied to human and murine malignant tumor cells in vitro and in vivo, artepillin C exhibited a cytotoxic effect and the growth of tumor cells was clearly inhibited. The artepillin C was found to cause significant damage to solid tumor and leukemic cells by the MTT assay, DNA synthesis assay, and morphological observation in vitro. When xenografts of human tumor cells were transplanted into nude mice, the cytotoxic effects of artepillin C were most noticeable in carcinoma and malignant melanoma. Apoptosis, abortive mitosis, and massive necrosis combined were identified by histological observation after intratumor injection of 500 microg of artepillin C three times a week. In addition to suppression of tumor growth, there was an increase in the ratio of CD4/CD8 T cells, and in the total number of helper T cells. These findings indicate that artepillin C activates the immune system, and possesses direct antitumor activity.
Article
Oxygen-derived free radicals have been implicated in the pathogenesis of spinal cord neuronal injury after both trauma and ischemia-reperfusion. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), an active component of propolis extract, exhibits antioxidant properties. This experimental study was designed to determine the effect of CAPE on ischemia-reperfusion of spinal cord in rabbits. Forty-one New Zealand white rabbits were used in the study. The animals undergone aortic occlusion were divided into three groups each consisting of 11 rabbits: methylprednisolone (MP), CAPE, and control. CAPE 10 micromol/kg, methyl prednisolone (MP) 30 mg/kg or similar dose saline were injected intraperitoneally before surgical intervention. Animals were subjected to 21 min of cross-clamp time. At the end of occlusion time, the clamps were removed and restoration of the blood flow was verified visually. Animals in sham group (n = 8) underwent a surgical procedure similar to the other groups but the aorta was not occluded. Neurological status was scored by assessment of hindlimb motor function deficit. The scores in CAPE group was different from control groups at 48 h (3.91+/-0.5 vs. 2.91+/-0.7; P = 0.0013). Spinal cord specimens were obtained to determine the tissue levels of malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and histological changes. Malondialdehyde levels in control group were increased significantly when compared to sham group (124.22+/-24.36 and 41.92+/-10.08 nmol/g wet tissue, P = 0.0003). MDA levels in the CAPE group were lower than MP group and differences between the two groups were statistically significant (56.77+/-15.265 and 107.74+/-19.31 nmol/g wet tissue, P = 0.0001). We did not observe additional tissue injury in CAPE group when compared to control group. SOD and CAT activities were not concordant in all the groups. These results suggest that CAPE may be an available agent to protect the spinal cord from ischemia-reperfusion injury.
Article
Arnica and propolis have been used for thousands of years in folk medicine for several purposes. They possess several biological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antiviral and tissue regenerative, among others. Although the antibacterial activity of propolis has already been demonstrated, very few studies have been done on bacteria of clinical relevance in dentistry. Also, the antimicrobial activity of Arnica has not been extensively investigated. Therefore the aim here was to evaluate in vitro the antimicrobial activity, inhibition of adherence of mutans streptococci and inhibition of formation of water-insoluble glucan by Arnica and propolis extracts. Arnica montana (10%, w/v) and propolis (10%, w/v) extracts from Minas Gerais State were compared with controls. Fifteen microorganisms were used as follows: Candida albicans--NTCC 3736, F72; Staphylococcus aureus--ATCC 25923; Enterococcus faecalis--ATCC 29212; Streptococcus sobrinus 6715; Strep. sanguis--ATCC 10556; Strep. cricetus--HS-6; Strep. mutans--Ingbritt 1600; Strep. mutans--OMZ 175; Actinomyces naeslundii--ATCC 12104, W 1053; Act. viscosus OMZ 105; Porphyromonas gingivalis; Porph. endodontalis and Prevotella denticola (the last three were clinical isolates). Antimicrobial activity was determined by the agar diffusion method and the zones of growth inhibition were measured. To assess cell adherence to a glass surface, the organisms were grown for 18 h at 37 degrees C in test-tubes at a 30 degree angle. To assay water-insoluble glucan formation, a mixture of crude glucosyltransferase and 0.125 M sucrose was incubated for 18 h at 37 degrees C in test-tubes at a 30 degree angle. Arnica and propolis extracts (20 microl) were added to these tubes to evaluate the % of inhibition of cell adherence and water-insoluble glucan formation. The propolis extract significantly inhibited all the microorganisms tested (p < 0.05), showing the largest inhibitory zone for Actinomyces spp. The Arnica extract did not demonstrate significant antimicrobial activity. Cell adherence and water-insoluble glucan formation were almost completely inhibited by the propolis extract at a final concentration of 400 microg/ml and 500 microg/ml, respectively. The Arnica extract showed slight inhibition of the adherence of the growing cells (19% for Strep. mutans and 15% for Strep. sobrinus) and of water-insoluble glucan formation (29%) at these same concentrations. Thus, the propolis extract showed in vitro antibacterial activity, inhibition of cell adherence and inhibition of water-insoluble glucan formation, while the Arnica extract was only slightly active in those three conditions.
Article
Unlabelled: Ninety men and women with recurrent genital HSV type 2 participated in a randomized, single-blind, masked investigator, controlled multi-centre study comparing the efficacy of ointment of Canadian propolis containing natural flavonoids with ointments of acyclovir and placebo (vehicle) on healing ability and capacity to remedy symptoms. Thirty individuals were randomized to each group. Treatment was intended to start in the blister phase. All participants had HSV type 2 isolated, confirmed by serum immunoglobulin levels. The participants were examined on the 3rd, 7th and 10th days of treatment by gynaecologists, dermatovenerologists or urologists at seven different medical centres. Apart from clinical symptoms the number and size of the herpetic lesions were noted. At each examination the lesions were classified into four stages: vesicular, ulcerated, crusted and healed. The study ointments were applied to affected areas four times daily. In women with vaginal or cervical lesions a tampon with the appropriate ointment was inserted four times daily for 10 days. Endpoint variables were healing time and time until loss of symptoms. Results: On Day 10, 24 out of 30 individuals in the propolis group had healed. In the acyclovir group 14 out of 30 and in the placebo group 12 out of 30 had healed. (p = 0.0015). The healing process appeared to be faster in the propolis group. In the propolis group 15 individuals had crusted lesions on Day 3 compared to 8 individuals in the acyclovir group and none in the placebo group (p = 0.0006). On Day 7, 10 participants in the propolis group, 4 in the acyclovir group and 3 in the placebo group had healed. At the initial examination all patients had local symptoms and 28% general symptoms. At Day 3, 3 patients in the propolis group had local symptoms compared to 8 and 9 in the acyclovir and placebo groups respectively. Of the women, 66% had vaginal superinfections of microbial pathogens at the initial examination. In the acyclovir and placebo groups no change in the vaginal flora was found following treatment whereas in the propolis group the incidence of superinfection was reduced by 55%. (p = 0.10 n.s.). Conclusion: An ointment containing flavonoids appeared to be more effective than both acyclovir and placebo ointments in healing genital herpetic lesions, and in reducing local symptoms.
Article
Antiapoptotische Effekte von Propolisextrakt und Propol auf die durch minimal-modifiziertes Low Density Lipoprotein induzierte Apoptose in humanen Makrophagen Ein wäßriger Extrakt von Propolis und des phenolischen Inhaltsstoffs Propol wurden auf antioxidative und antiapoptotische Eigenschaften untersucht. Der wäßrige Extrakt und Propol inhibierten die Cu²⁺-vermittelte Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL)-Oxidation, was sich über eine Verlängerung der lag-time manifestierte, reduzierten die oxidationsbedingte Zunahme der relativen Mobilität in der Elektrophorese und verringerten die durch minimal modifiziertes LDL (mmLDL) in Humanmakrophagen ausgelöste Apoptose. Darüber hinaus wurde sowohl durch den wäßrigen Extrakt als auch durch Propol die durch mmLDL verursachte Reduktion der Glutathionkonzentration und die Aktivierung des Transkriptionsfaktors NF-kB verhindert. Das phenolische Antioxidans Propol verbessert auf diese Weise die Fähigkeit von Zellen, oxidativen Stress zu kompensieren und Apoptose zu verhindern: es sollte deshalb einen deutlichen Anteil an den Propolis zugeschriebenen antioxidativen und anti-inflammatorischen Eigenschaften haben.
Article
Propolis is a resinous hive product collected by honeybees from various plant sources. The composition of the propolis depends upon the time, vegetation and the area of collection. Thus, quality evaluation of the propolis is important, before use in food and beverages. For this propose three different biological activities were carried out, i.e. 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging activity, cytotoxicity and hepatoprotective activity, of MeOH and water extracts of nine different propolis from Brazil, Peru, the Netherlands and China. The results showed that water extracts of six Brazilian and a Chinese propolis possessed stronger DPPH free radical scavenging activity than the corresponding MeOH extract, whereas in the case of Netherlands and Peruvian propolis MeOH extract exhibited stronger DPPH free radical scavenging activity. The MeOH extracts of all propolis possessed stronger cytotoxicity than the corresponding water extract towards murine colon 26-L5 carcinoma and human HT-1080 fibrosarcoma cells. The result of hepatoprotective activity of Brazilian propolis on D-galactosamine (D-GalN)/tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha)-induced cell death in primary cultured mouse hepatocytes were found in accordance with the grade set up by beekeepers in Brazil.
  • G Di Carlo
  • N Mascolo
  • A A Izzo
  • F Capasso
  • N Cotelle
  • J L Bernier
  • J P Catteau
  • J Pommery
  • J C Wallet
  • E M Gaydou
  • R Russo
  • A Acquaviva
  • Campisi
w10x G. Di Carlo, N. Mascolo, A.A. Izzo, F. Capasso, Life Sci 65 (1999) 337. w11x N. Cotelle, J.L. Bernier, J.P. Catteau, J. Pommery, J.C. Wallet, E.M. Gaydou, Free Radic Biol Med 20 (1996) 35. w12x A. Russo, R. Acquaviva, A. Campisi, et al., Cell Biol Tox 16 (2000) 91. w13x S.A.B.E. van Acker, D.J. van den Berg, M.N.J.L. Tromp, et al., Free Radic Biol Med 20 (1996) 331. w14x J.R.S. Hoult, M. Moroney, M. Paya, Methods Enzymol 234 (1994) 443. ` w15x K.M. You, H.G. Jong, H.P. Kim, Arch Pharm Res 22 (1999) 18. w16x S.C. Lin, C.Y. Chung, C.L. Chiang, S.H. Hsu, Am J Chin Med 27 (1999) 83. w17x C. Jian-Hong, S. Yu, H. Mou-Tuan, C. Chee-Kok, H. Chi-Tang, Cancer Lett 108 (1996) 211. w18x S.K. Lee, L. Song, E. Mata Greenwood, G.J. Kelloff, V.E. Steele, J.M. Pezzuto, Anticancer Res 19 (1999) 35. w19x F. Paoletti, D. Aldinucci, A. Mocalli, A. Caparrini, Biochem 154 (1986) 536. w20x F. Bonina, A. Saija, A. Tomaino, R. Lo Cascio, P. Rapisarda, J.C. Dederen, Cosmetic Sci 20 (1998) 331. w21x J. Stocks, T.L. Dormandy, Br J Haematol 20 (1971) 95. w22x H. Green, M. Plyley, D. Smith, J. Kile, J Appl Physiol 66 (1989) 1914. w23x J.M. Gutteridge, B. Halliwell, Trends Biochem Sci 15 (1990) 129. References w1x E. Ghisalberti, Bee World 60 (59) (1979) 84. w2x S.H. Matsuda, Foods Food Ingredients J Jpn 160 (64) (1994) 73. w3x E. Wollenweber, S.T. Buchmann, Z Naturforsch 52 (1997) 530–535. w4x N. Manolova, V. Maximova, G. Gegova, et al., C R Acad Bulg Sci 38 (1985) 735–738. w5x B. Koening, J.H. Dustmann, Naturwiss Rundsch 41 (1987) 43–53. w6x M.C. Marcucci, Apidologie 26 (1995) 83–99. w7x J.M. Grange, R.W. Davey, J R Soc Med 83 (1990) 159–160. w8x V. Bankova, R. Christov, G. Stoev, S. Popov, J Chromatogr 607 (1992) 150–153. w9x P. Needleman, S. Lang, E.M. Johnson, J Pharmacol Exp Ther 181 (1972) 489–497.
  • J H Chen
  • Y Shao
  • M T Huang
  • C K Chin
  • C T Ho Huang
  • W Ma
  • P Yen
w16x J.H. Chen, Y. Shao, M.T. Huang, C.K. Chin, C.T. Ho, Cancer Lett 108 (1996) 211–214. w17x M.T. Huang, W. Ma, P. Yen, et al., Carcinogenesis 17 (1996) 761–765.
In vitro percutaneous absorption: principles, fundamentals and applications
  • R L Bronaugh
  • H I Maibach
  • V P Shah
  • J Elkins
  • J Hanus
  • C Noorizadeh
  • J Skelly
  • T J Franz
w19x R.L. Bronaugh, H.I. Maibach, in: D.F. Williams (Ed.), In vitro percutaneous absorption: principles, fundamentals and applications, CRC Press, Boca Raton, Florida, 1991, p. 146. w20x V.P. Shah, J. Elkins, J. Hanus, C. Noorizadeh, J. Skelly, Pharm Res 8 (1991) 55–59. w21x T.J. Franz, Invest Dermatol 64 (1975) 190–196. w22x D.R. Friend, J Cont Rel 18 (1992) 235–248.
  • H.-K Na
  • M R Wilson
  • K.-S Kang
  • C.-C Chang
  • D Grunberger
  • J E Trosko
w18x H.-K. Na, M.R. Wilson, K.-S. Kang, C.-C. Chang, D. Grunberger, J.E. Trosko, Cancer Lett 157 (2000) 31–38.
STP Pharm Sci in press
  • Gc Ceschel
  • P Maffei
  • Lombardi Borgia
  • S Grunberger
  • R Banerjee
  • K Eisinger
w11x Ceschel GC, Maffei P, Lombardi Borgia S. (2001). STP Pharm Sci in press.. w12x D. Grunberger, R. Banerjee, K. Eisinger, et al., Experientia 44 (1988) 230–232. w13x R.S. Bhimani, W. Troll, D. Grunberger, K. Frenkel, Cancer Res 53 (1993) 4528–4533. w14x K. Frenkel, H. Wei, R.S. Bhimani, et al., Cancer Res 53 (1993) 1255–1261.
In vitro methods for measuring permeability of the oral mucosa
  • H Zhang
  • J R Robinson
w23x H. Zhang, J.R. Robinson, In vitro methods for measuring permeability of the oral mucosa, in: M.J. Rathbone (Ed.), Oral mucosal drug delivery, Marcel Dekker Inc, New York, 1996, pp.
  • H Niitani
  • T Takano
  • K Takano
  • K Hiramori
  • S Kimata
  • M Ikeda
w10x H. Niitani, T. Takano, K. Takano, K. Hiramori, S. Kimata, M. Ikeda, Respir Circul 32 (1984) 841–847.
  • Z Z Su
  • J Lin
  • D Grunberger
  • P B Ficher
w15x Z.Z. Su, J. Lin, D. Grunberger, P.B. Ficher, Cancer Res 54 (1994) 1865–1870.
Le nuove frontiere della propoli
  • G M Ricchiuto