Propolis: Potential Solution to Gluten-induced Celiac Disease

The anti-inflammatory effects of propolis are well-documented, especially on mucous linings of the body. This study reaffirms its capacity to reduce inflammation while also diminishing nitric oxide synthase, another inflammatory factor in septic shock, auto-immune diseases or proinflammatory cytokine production.

Ex vivo immunomodulatory effect of ethanolic extract of propolis during Celiac Disease: involvement of nitric oxide pathway

Inflammopharmacology.2018 Mar 7  

Celiac Disease (CeD) is a chronic immune-mediated enteropathy, in which dietary gluten induces an inflammatory reaction, predominantly in the duodenum. Propolis is a resinous hive product, collected by honeybees from various plant sources.

Propolis is well-known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and immunomodulatory effects, due to its major compounds, polyphenols and flavonoids. The aim of our study was to assess the ex vivo effect of ethanolic extract of propolis (EEP) upon the activity and expression of iNOS, along with IFN-γ and IL-10 production in Algerian Celiac patients. In this context, PBMCs isolated from peripheral blood of Celiac patients and healthy controls were cultured with different concentrations of EEP. NO production was measured using the Griess method, whereas quantitation of IFN-γ and IL-10 levels was performed by ELISA. Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression, NFκB and pSTAT-3 activity were analyzed by immunofluorescence assay.

Our results showed that PBMCs from Celiac patients produced high levels of NO and IFN-γ compared with healthy controls (HC). Interestingly, EEP reduced significantly, NO and IFN-γ levels and significantly increased IL-10 levels at a concentration of 50 µg/mL. Importantly, EEP downmodulated the iNOS expression as well as the activity of NFκB and pSTAT-3 transcription factors.

Altogether, our results highlight the immunomodulatory effect of propolis on NO pathway and on pro-inflammatory cytokines. Therefore, we suggest that propolis may constitute a potential candidate to modulate inflammation during Celiac Disease and has a potential therapeutic value.

Study Confirms Propolis is a Safe, Antidiabetic Agent

This is an amazing discovery for diabetics, as the use of propolis aids the body by regulating the immune system to protect it. As it's been described, honey bees make propolis from a naturopathic formula, which protects the liver, pancreas and kidneys. 

Significance of propolis administration for homeostasis of CD4+CD25+ immunoregulatory T cells controlling hyperglycemia

Springer Plus, 2014 Sept 15; 3:526  

In the present study, we examined the effect of ethanolic soluble derivative of propolis (EEP) extract on immunological function in diabetic mouse models with the aim of highlighting the role of regulatory T cell, the change of cell surface molecule, and in vivo productions of IFN-gamma. Murine models of diabetes mellitus (DM) were created by injecting normal mice with S961 peptide. 

Normal BALB/c mice were injected intraperitoneally with peptide S961 300 mg/kg body weight (BW) twice a day for eight days. On day 15, the spleen was isolated; then, cell surface molecules and regulatory T cells were analyzed using flow cytometry. 

The histopathological changes were monitored in the liver of treated and control mice. Afterward, we tested the ability of propolis as an immunomodulator that initiate normality metabolism and homeostasis. 

The propolis decreased blood sugar levels and increased the number of naive T cells expressing CD62L molecule by suppressing the development of effector cells in diabetic mice. However, the propolis stimulated development of effector cells, which was indicated by increasing the number of CD4+CD25+ T cells in normal mice. 

Moreover, the propolis increased the production of IFN-gamma in normal mice, whereas in mouse models of diabetes mellitus propolis tends to suppress the production of IFN-gamma. The histological analysis of the liver shows that at a dose of 50-200 mg/kg BW propolis does not show a toxic effect so that the dose is categorized safe.

Therefore, the ethanolic soluble derivative of propolis (EEP) extract warrant for further exploited as an antidiabetic agent that safe for human.


Click here to download complete study.

Antioxidant Activity and Biological Effects of Propolis Explained

A thorough summary of the magnificent properties of propolis. As stated below, "despite its variety, it is always highly biologically active". This explains why has many applications in treating and preventing chronic diseases. Is it any wonder that the Swiss government wants to restrict its use for pharmaceutical purposes?

Structure and Antioxidant Activity of Polyphenols Derived from Propolis

Molecules, 2013, Dec

Abstract:

Propolis is a potential source of natural antioxidants such as phenolic acids and flavonoids. Its wide biological effects have been known and used since antiquity. In the modern world natural substances are sought which would be able to counteract the effects of antioxidative stress, which underlies many diseases, such as cancer, diabetes and atherosclerosis. This paper aims to present the antioxidative activity of phenolic acids and flavonoids present in Polish propolis and the relationship between their chemical structure and antioxidative activity influencing its medicinal properties.

Data concerning the biological activity of propolis are summarized here, including its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic, antiatherogenic, estrogenic effects, as well as AIDS- counteracting and reparative-regenerative function.

Conclusions:

Basic Flavonoid Structure

As a substance of natural origin, propolis does not have a stable and reproducible chemical composition. Thus, a serious research problem arises, that of defining its full composition in a credible way. Despite its variety, it is always highly biologically active. Among the most significant chemical compounds comprising Polish propolis are phenolic acids and flavonoids. Owing to their structure, these compounds display high antioxidative activity.

Tests conducted on polyphenols present in Polish propolis have allowed scientists to establish the mechanism of polyphenol activity and proved their antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic, antiatherogenic and reparative-regenerative activity. In consideration of the high antioxidative activity of Polish propolis new therapeutic possibilities connected with this natural bee product are being actively sought

For a download of the complete study - click here.

Propolis: Adjuvant Agent for Cancer Prevention

Honeybees have been using the resin that protects tree buds from disease for preventative action in their hives. It's now recognized by humans for having therapeutic and preventative effects. I wonder what else we could learn from honey bees...

Clinical Reviews in Allergy & Immunology

June 2013, Volume 44, Issue 3, pp 262-273

Propolis, a waxy substance produced by the honeybee, has been adopted as a form of folk medicine since ancient times. It has a wide spectrum of alleged applications including potential anti-infection and anticancer effects. Many of the therapeutic effects can be attributed to its immunomodulatory functions. The composition of propolis can vary according to the geographic locations from where the bees obtained the ingredients.

Two main immunopotent chemicals have been identified as caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) and artepillin C. Propolis, CAPE, and artepillin C have been shown to exert summative immunosuppressive function on T lymphocyte subsets but paradoxically activate macrophage function. On the other hand, they also have potential antitumor properties by different postulated mechanisms such as suppressing cancer cells proliferation via its anti-inflammatory effects; decreasing the cancer stem cell populations; blocking specific oncogene signaling pathways; exerting antiangiogenic effects; and modulating the tumor microenvironment.

The good bioavailability by the oral route and good historical safety profile makes propolis an ideal adjuvant agent for future immunomodulatory or anticancer regimens. However, standardized quality controls and good design clinical trials are essential before either propolis or its active ingredients can be adopted routinely in our future therapeutic armamentarium. 

Bee Products Fight Disease, Useful in Medicine

Just in time for the cold season, another scientific review validating the health benefits of bee products. Besides protecting oneself from the changing seasons, it's clear that taking honey and propolis (and other bee products) has a synergistic effect to aid even more severe chronic conditions such as allergies and autoimmune diseases... 

Immunological Properties of Bee Products

Pot-Honey 2013, pp 513-523 

Abstract:

Honey, bee pollen, propolis and royal jelly are among the main products obtained from bees. They contain many compounds that may fight disease, making them useful in medicine. Bee products act upon both innate and adaptive immune response. At different levels, in the human innate response, these compounds suppress DNA synthesis, decrease proinflammatory cytokine synthesis (IL-2, IL-12 and IL-4), inactivate both the classical and alternative complement pathway, and decrease superoxide anion production in rabbit neutrophils. 

In adaptive immune response, propolis and honey induce the increase of antibody production by plasma cells, enhance the secretion of TGF-β after the activation of T regulatory cells, and inhibit Con A-stimulated cell proliferation in mice. The honey bee products act mainly through anti-inflammatory action which can ameliorate allergic and autoimmune diseases where inflammation plays an important role. 

Based on this knowledge, clinical studies to evaluate such products could be designed to obtain a new class of drugs, with application to allergies and autoimmune disease treatment.

Within this Chapter:

Introduction

Honey Bee Products and Innate Immune Response

Action Mechanisms of Bee Products in the Adaptive Immune Response

Future Perspectives to Use Honey Bee Products in Treatment of Immune Diseases

Conclusions

References

References

Propolis Aids Patients with Peyronies Disease

Propolis has an amazing integral element biologically, in that it regulates or re-regulates on a cellular level, anomolies in the biological structure of humans, as well as animals. It's a protector on numerous levels and merits greater appreciation in the medical profession, albeit that complementary and alternative health care professionals are slowly discovering this natural protector...

PROPOLIS, IMMUNOLOGY AND PEYRONIE'S DISEASE

Published in Rev Int Androl. 2012 Oct 

Abstract

Introduction: 

In several previously published articles, we have shown clinical improvement in Peyronie's disease (PD) with propolis. Among the properties of propolis, immunostabilization is that which hypothetically corresponds to these effects.

Objectives:

To analyze and determine the associations among PD, propolis, immunology and clinical improvement.

Material and methods:

We performed a prospective, paired clinical trial of 30 patients. A dose of 900 mg propolis daily was administered for 6 months. The variables studied were age, race, direction of the curvature, pain, size of the plaque (pre- and post-treatment), as measured by physical examination, ultrasound and angle of curvature; levels of IgA, IgG, IGm, C3, C4, rheumatoid factor and C-reactive protein, and the results of skin tests.

Results:

There was no predominant age, while 70% of the patients were white. The curvature was predominantly upwards (40%). Pain was present in 53.3%, and was more frequent when the curvature was upwards (8 of the 12 patients). The mean change in the degree of angulation (pre- vs. post- treatment) was 38.1º(pre-treatment) vs. 29.5º(post-treatment) (p < 0.001). The variation in the size of the plaque, expressed as the mean of each of the three dimensions was as follows: physical measurement (cm) (1.9×1.3×1.3 pre-treatment) vs. (1.5×1.1×1.1 post-treatment). 

The results of humoral immunological tests were as follows: C3 levels were low in the majority of the patients; C4 levels were within the normal range; C3 concentrations increased after treatment to within the normal range and levels increased after treatment in the remaining patients who had levels at the lower limit of normal before treatment. The results of cellular immunity tests (IGg, IGm, IGa and C4) showed that before treatment 18 patients were immunodepressed, two showed moderate immunodepression and 10 showed normal cellular immune function (33.3%). After treatment, only one patient was immunodepressed.

Discussion:

On evaluating the main variables, we found that the angle of the penis after 6 months of treatment with propolis was significantly reduced. The size of the plaque measured physically by the physician and sonographically by the sonographer was also reduced at the end of the treatment. In patients who were immunodepressed before treatment, immune function returned to normal to a greater or lesser extent. Patients with low values before treatment showed improved immune function after treatment.

Conclusions:

There is an association between immunodepression and PD. The clinical improvement in patients with PD treated with propolis was associated with improved immune function. Propolis reduces the angle of penile curvature and the size of the plaque and improves immune function.

Anti-Cancer Properties Identified in Propolis

Propolis has many therapeutic applications. The phenolic compounds are numerous as are their effects, from anti-inflammatory and antifungal, to antimicrobial and antiviral. Best of all, propolis is complementary with traditional and alternative practices...

The Immunomodulatory and Anticancer Properties of Propolis

Clin RevAllergy Immunol, 2012 Jun 17

Propolis, a waxy substance produced by the honeybee, has been adopted as a form of folk medicine since ancient times. It has a wide spectrum of alleged applications including potential anti-infection and anticancer effects. Many of the therapeutic effects can be attributed to its immunomodulatory functions.

The composition of propolis can vary according to the geographic locations from where the bees obtained the ingredients. Two main immunopotent chemicals have been identified as caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) and artepillin C. Propolis, CAPE, and artepillin C have been shown to exert summative immunosuppressive function on T lymphocyte subsets but paradoxically activate macrophage function. On the other hand, they also have potential antitumor properties by different postulated mechanisms such as suppressing cancer cells proliferation via its anti-inflammatory effects; decreasing the cancer stem cell populations; blocking specific oncogene signaling pathways; exerting antiangiogenic effects; and modulating the tumor microenvironment.

 
The good bioavailability by the oral route and good historical safety profile makes propolis an ideal adjuvant agent for future immunomodulatory or anticancer regimens. However, standardized quality controls and good design clinical trials are essential before either propolis or its active ingredients can be adopted routinely in our future therapeutic armamentarium.

Propolis Reduces High Blood Pressure, Hypertension

Studies such as this continue to show the value in taking propolis prophylactically to control or regulate certain functions, like hypertension, immunomodulation or antimutogenic, antifungal, anti-inflammatory conditions WITHOUT any adverse side effects... 

Role of Propolis on Tyrosine Hydroxylase Activity and Blood Pressure in Nitric Oxide Synthase-Inhibited Hypertensive Rats

Clinical and Experimental Hypertension, 2012 April 3

Reduction in the synthesis or bioavailability of nitric oxide plays a significant role in the development of hypertension. Propolis is a resinous product collected by honeybees from various plant sources. Tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) is the rate-limiting enzyme in the biosynthesis of catecholamines.

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of propolis on blood pressure (BP), TH, and total RNA levels in the adrenal medulla, heart, and hypothalamus tissues in chronic nitric oxide synthase (NOS)-inhibited rats by Nw-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME).

Rats received NOS inhibitor (L-NAME) for 15 days to produce hypertension and propolis for the last 5 days.

TH activity and total RNA levels significantly increased in adrenal medulla, heart, and hypothalamus tissues in L-NAME-treated groups. TH activity and total RNA levels of L-NAME+propolis-treated rats reduced compared with L-NAME-treated groups. TH activity in propolis-treated rats was reduced to the control values. L-NAME led to a significant increase in BP compared with the control group. Propolis administration to L-NAME-treated rats reduced BP but this was not statistically significant compared to L-NAME-treated groups.

These results suggest that propolis decreases TH activity in NOS-inhibited hypertensive rats and thereby may modulate the synthesis of catecholamine and BP.

Propolis, Modulator for Immune & Inflammatory Responses

Propolis is truly a remarkable therapeutic agent, proven here to be an effective cellular regulator, independently and with its complementary co-phyto ingredients...

The Effects of Propolis and Its Isolated Compounds on Cytokine Production by Murine Macrophages

PhytotherapyResearch, 25 January 2012

Since propolis and phenolic compounds, such as cinnamic and coumaric acids, have several biological properties, their immunomodulatory effect on cytokine production (IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-10) was investigated.

Peritoneal macrophages from BALB/c mice were incubated with propolis, coumaric and cinnamic acids in different concentrations and the concentrations that inhibited cytokine production were tested before or after macrophage challenge with LPS, to evaluate a possible immunomodulatory action. Propolis and the acids stimulated IL-1β production, while IL-6 production was significantly inhibited after incubation with propolis (5, 50 and 100 µg/well), coumaric and cinnamic acids (50 and 100 µg/well).

In LPS-challenge protocols, inhibitory concentrations of cinnamic and coumaric acids after LPS incubation prevented efficiently its effects on IL-6 production, whereas propolis inhibited LPS effects both before and after its addition. Propolis, coumaric and cinnamic acids (50 and 100 µg/well) inhibited IL-10 production as well. Both acids showed a similar inhibitory activity on IL-10 production when added after LPS challenge, while propolis counteracted LPS action when added before and after LPS incubation.

Propolis modulated the immune/inflammatory response, depending on the concentration. Its efficiency may occur due to the synergistic effect of its compounds, and cinnamic and coumaric acids may be involved in the action of propolis on cytokine production.

Is Propolis Safe, Alternative Medicine?

When you look at the extremely low incidence rate of negative reactions, it begs the question, why isn't it more prevelant?  The source of Propolis is important when wanting to take advantage of specific bioflavonoid activity. But generally speaking, the consistent properties of propolis as an immunostimulating, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic agent are inherently safe.

Is Propolis Safe as an Alternative Medicine?

J PharmBio Allied Sciences, 2011 Nov

Abstract:

Propolis is a resinous substance produced by honeybees as defense against intruders. It has relevant therapeutic properties that have been used since ancient times. Nowadays, propolis is of increasing importance as a therapeutic, alone or included in many medicines and homeopathic products or in cosmetics. 

Propolis is produced worldwide and honeybees use the flora surrounding their beehives for its production. Therefore its chemical composition may change according to the flora. The phenolic and volatile fractions of propolis have been revised in the present study, as well as some of the biological properties attributed to this natural product. An alert is given about the need to standardize this product, with quality control. This has already been initiated by some authors, mainly in the propolis from the poplar-type. Only this product can constitute a good complementary and alternative medicine under internationally acceptable quality control…

Conclusions: 

Propolis is a heterogeneous product constituted by several groups of compounds. Moreover, the chemical composition depends strongly on the phytogeographic characteristics of the collection site, as honey bees can only use the plant species existing in their habitats. Their chemical variability can give rise to diverse types of biological activities or diverse structures may present similar properties. Therefore, to make a standardization and quality control of this product is very difficult, particularly if we take into account the quantification of the active substances. Popova et al. [67] have proposed to specify multiple standards for different propolis types according to their plant source and corresponding chemical profile. Popova et al. [141] has already made a standardization for the poplar-type propolis from Europe, Asia, and Americas. More recently, Popova et al. [67] have validated a spectrophotometric method for the quantification of prenylated flavanones in the 'Pacific' propolis from Taiwan. In addition, it is necessary to connect a particular chemical propolis type to a specific type of biological activity for formulating recommendations for the practitioners. Only by following this scheme will it be possible for people to choose and make more efficient use of the beneficial properties of propolis, in respect to complementary and alternative medicine. [142]

In spite of propolis being commonly used in cosmetic and medicinal preparations owing to its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and anesthesic properties, it is not completely innocuous because 1.2 to 6.6 patients who were patch-tested for dermatitis were sensitive to propolis. The main allergens were 3-methyl-2-butenyl caffeate and phenylethyl caffeate, that is, components present in the poplar-type propolis. [143] Clinical allergy in humans is presented as contact dermatitis or oral mucositis, beekeepers being the most affected. Nevertheless there has been a recent rise in this incidence among biocosmetic users, on account of the increasing popularity of natural products such as propolis. [144] According to these authors, patients with an allergy to propolis may be at risk of cross-sensitization with balsam of Peru, a common allergen found in flavoring agents, perfumed products, certain spices, and products that contain the peel of citrus fruit.

Therefore, propolis is a complex natural product with a great diversity of chemical structures and subsequent biological activities, nevertheless, it is not completely innocuous and care must been taken, mainly when such a product has a great diversity of origins. An absence of quality control may be pernicious to human health.

Propolis, Abundant Source of Beneficial Effects for Human Health

A molecular review on the rich spectrum of beneficial properties found in Propolis... 

Beneficial Effects of Propolis on Human Health and Neurological Diseases

Frontiers in Bioscience (Elite Ed), 2012 Jan 4

Propolis is a natural product, collected by honeybees Apis mellifera, from various plant sources. Propolis is extensively used in foods and beverages because it improves human health. It contains more than 300 natural compounds such as polyphenols, phenolic aldehydes, sequiterpene-quinones, coumarins, amino acids, steroids and inorganic compounds.

Propolis exhibits a broad spectrum of biological and pharmacological properties such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antitumor, anticancer, antiulcer, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective actions. The chemical composition and beneficial properties of propolis vary greatly depending on the phytogeographical areas, seasonal collection time, and botanical source. Polyphenols found in fruits and vegetables are beginning to receive increased attention due to their vital role in protecting neural cells from oxidative stress and neuroinflammation associated with normal aging and chronic age-related diseases.

Propolis is one of the most abundant sources of polyphenols (mainly flavonoids and phenolic acids). This overview is an attempt to discuss the molecular mechanism underlying the potential beneficial effects of propolis on human health and neurological diseases...

Propolis Boosts Wound Healing

The protective power of propolis instantly boosts wound healing capacities, boosts the immune system and delivers antioxidant, anti-viral, antibacterial properties due to its naturally-occurring bioflavonoid compounds. 

Propolis Anti-Inflammatory Action Boosts Wound Healing Effect of Propolis on Mast Cells in Wound Healing

Inflammopharmacology, 2011 Dec 17

Wound healing is divided into three phases: inflammatory, proliferative and remodeling. Mast cells participate in all these phases.

The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of propolis on the population of mast cells in oral surgical wounds in comparison to the results obtained with dexamethasone. This study was prospective, in vivo, randomized, semiexperimental, quantitative and comparative animal.

A circular surgical wound was made on the dorsum of the tongue of 90 hamsters divided into three experimental groups: topical application of 30% propolis alcoholic extract (Group 1); 0.1% dexamethasone in orabase cream (Group 2); and orabase cream alone (Group 3). Applications were performed every 12 h throughout the experiment. The postoperative times for killing of the animals were 1, 3, 7, 14 and 28 days. 

The Student's t test for independent samples was employed in the statistical analysis.

In the inflammatory phase of healing, propolis caused a greater reduction in the number of mast cells on the edge and in the central region of the surgical wound in comparison to dexamethasone. Moreover, the number of mast cells on day 1 was lower in the central region of the wounds treated with the orabase cream alone in comparison to dexamethasone.

In conclusion, the anti-inflammatory action of propolis mediated by mast cells was more effective than dexamethasone in the inflammatory phase of healing.

Propolis Demonstrates Anti-Parasitic Capacity

Though Sandflies may not be a problem for some, one bite can induce Leishmaniasis, a potentially fatal disease, as stated in Wikipedia. Fortunately, researchers are exploring the anti-parasitic properties of Propolis, yet another of it's amazing qualities. Thanks to Apitherapy, these discoveries are essentiel for emerging nations lacking in medicinal or financial solutions.

The Effect of Propolis on CCL5 and IFN-γ Expression by Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells from Leishmaniasis Patients

J Pharmacy Pharmacology, 2011 Nov 18

Objectives 

Mucocutaneous leishmaniasis is associated with a strong Th1 immune response to Leishmania, which modulates chemokines and their receptors expression, affecting their migratory capacity. There are no antileishmanial vaccines available and chemotherapy still relies on the potentially toxic pentavalent antimonials.

Propolis is a bee product with immunomodulatory and antiparasite activities, and researchers have been attracted to its potential for the development of new drugs.

This work investigated the effects of propolis on CCL5 and IFN-γ expression by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) in order to evaluate a possible immunomodulatory action of propolis in patients with leishmaniasis compared to healthy control subjects.

Methods 

PBMC were incubated in the absence or presence of propolis and the evaluation of a possible cytotoxicity of propolis was carried out using MTT assay. The expression level of CCL5 and IFN-γ was determined by real-time PCR.

Key Findings 

Our data indicated that propolis modulates the immune response of leishmaniasis patients in vitro, affecting CCL5 and IFN-γ expression by PBMC.

Conclusions

Data suggested that propolis drives an anti-inflammatory response depending on concentration. Although propolis is a potential source of new and selective drugs for the treatment of leishmaniasis, its usefulness in the therapeutics should be further investigated.

Propolis Extracts May Allow Inexpensive Cancer Treatment

a very concise peer-reviewed article, confirming ONCE AGAIN, that propolis has very real potential to save lives. In the meantime, take your propolis regularly!!!

Cytotoxic Constituents of Propolis Inducing Anticancer Effects: A Review

J Pharm Pharmacol, 2011 Nov;63(11):1378-86

Objectives:
Propolis is a honeybee product used extensively in traditional medicine for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and anticancer effects. Propolis exhibits a broad spectrum of biological activities because it is a complex mixture of natural substances. In this review, the antitumour effects of propolis extracts and its constituents (e.g. flavonoids, terpenes and caffeic acid phenethyl ester) are discussed.

Key findings:
The effect of propolis on experimental carcinogenesis is discussed, as well as its possible mechanisms of action against tumours, involving apoptosis, cell cycle arrest and interference on metabolic pathways. Propolis seems to be efficient against different tumour cells both in vitro and in vivo, which suggests its potential in the development of new anticancer drugs.

Summary:
Propolis extracts may be important economically and would allow a relatively inexpensive cancer treatment. Preclinical investigations are needed to further elucidate the benefits of propolis and its anti-tumour properties.

Royal Jelly Beneficial for Hypertension, Cholesterol, Bone Loss & Male Infertility

Royal Jelly continues its climb upwards as a respected product for treating important human conditions...

Clinical Advisor, 4-Oct 2011

 …Royal jelly contains a complex mixture of proteins, vitamins, minerals and carbohydrates. The B vitamins are found in the largest quantity, followed closely by an assortment of 20 different amino acids, calcium, zinc, iron and manganese.

A detailed breakdown of the constituents of royal jelly reveals lipids (3%-7%), carbohydrates (10%-12%), proteins (12%-15%), water (60%-70%) and traces of minerals and vitamins. Of particular medical interest is the presence of gamma globulin, one of a group of specific proteins studied for their immune-modulating potential and pro-estrogenic compounds...

Science


Due to its rich content of antioxidants, proteins and other nutrients, royal jelly is reportedly good for whatever ails you. It is specifically recommended for treatment of hypertension, hyperlipidemia and inflammation, and is being studied for a possible anti-tumor effect as well as a treatment for male infertility.

In a small trial, patients were assigned to the royal jelly intervention or placebo. Treatment-group participants were given 6 g daily of royal jelly formulation for four weeks. At the end of the trial, the treatment group's total cholesterol level was reduced 6%, and LDL was reduced more than 9%.

Egyptian researchers investigated the effect of royal jelly on conception rates among couples with known male asthenozoospermia... At the end of three monitored cycles, the successful conception rate of the treatment group was 8.1% compared with only 2.6% of the IUI couples. The researchers are still studying the mechanism of action in this usage beyond the nutrition-dense composition of royal jelly. 


The growth and development of bone cells is another area of focus for royal jelly research. Scientists monitored tibial bone density in ovariectomized rats for seven weeks until clinical measurements indicated significant loss of bone density. At this point, the treatment group was given a royal jelly supplement and the active control group was given a 17 beta-estradiol treatment.

At the end of treatment, the active control group had 100% reversal of tibial bone loss, and the royal jelly group showed 85% bone recovery. Enhanced gastric absorption of calcium was found in this and other studies and could account for a synergistic effect on bone maintenance.
..


Royal Jelly Protects Kidneys, Liver from Anti-Cancer Treatments

New research from Turkish researchers confirm the protective properties of Royal Jelly against damage caused by anti-cancer therapies. Could this be new ground towards complementary alternative therapies? 

Royal Jelly Modulates Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis in Liver and Kidneys of Rats Treated with Cisplatin

Oxidative Medicine and Cell Longevity, Volume 2011 (2011)

Abstract:

Cisplatin (CDDP) is one of the most active cytotoxic agents in the treatment of cancer and has adverse side effects such as nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity. The present study was designed to determine the effects of royal jelly (RJ) against oxidative stress caused by CDDP injury of the kidneys and liver, by measuring tissue biochemical and antioxidant parameters and investigating apoptosis immunohistochemically.

Twenty-four Sprague Dawley rats were divided into four groups, group C: control group received 0.9% saline; group CDDP: injected i.p. with cisplatin (CDDP, 7 mg kg(-1) body weight i.p., single dose); group RJ: treated for 15 consecutive days by gavage with RJ (300 mg/kg/day); group RJ + CDDP: treated by gavage with RJ 15 days following a single injection of CDDP. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) levels, glutathione S-transferase (GST), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities were determined in liver and kidney homogenates, and the liver and kidney were also histologically examined.

RJ elicited a significant protective effect towards liver and kidney by decreasing the level of lipid peroxidation (MDA), elevating the level of GSH, and increasing the activities of GST, GSH-Px, and SOD. In the immunohistochemical examinations were observed significantly enhanced apoptotic cell numbers and degenerative changes by cisplatin, but these histological changes were lower in the liver and kidney tissues of RJ + CDDP group. Besides, treatment with RJ lead to an increase in antiapoptotic activity hepatocytes and tubular epithelium.

In conclusion, RJ may be used in combination with cisplatin in chemotherapy to improve cisplatin-induced oxidative stress parameters and apoptotic activity...

excerpt:

Recently, royal jelly (RJ) has received particular attention because of studies that have reported that it is a highly efficient antioxidant and has free radical scavenging capacity [4, 15]. Royal jelly is a secretion produced by the hypopharyngeal and mandibular glands of worker honeybees (Apis mellifera). It contains many important compounds with biological activity such as free amino acids, proteins, sugars, fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins [16]. So far, RJ has been demonstrated to possess several physiological activities in experimental animals, including vasodilative and hypotensive activities [17], the induction of decrease in serum cholesterol levels [18], antimicrobial [19], antiallergic [20], anti-inflammatory [21], immunomodulatory [22, 23], and antioxidant properties [16]. In addition, Kanbur et al. [24] revealed the protective effect of RJ against paracetamol-induced liver damage in mice.

Mexican Propolis Exhibits Strong Anti-Pancreatic Cancer Effect

Congratulations Mexico! With more than 38 components identified in Propolis, you've discovered 2 more...

Two New Cytotoxic Phenylallylflavanones from Mexican Propolis

Institute of Natural Medicine, Univ. of Toyama, Japan, College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges Univ., China; Chem Pharm Bulletin, June 30, 2011

Summary:

Two new phenylallylflavanones, (2R,3R)-6-[1-(4 -hydroxy-3 -methoxyphenyl)prop-2-en-1-yl]pinobanksin (1) and (2R,3R)-6-[1-(4 -hydroxy-3 -methoxyphenyl)prop-2-en-1-yl]pinobanksin 3-acetate (2) were isolated from a methanolic extract of Mexican propolis. Their structures were elucidated with spectroscopic analysis. Both compounds (1, 2) exhibited preferential cytotoxic activity against PANC-1 human pancreatic cancer cells in a nutrient-deprived medium with the concentration at which 50% cells died preferentially in NDM (PC50) values of 17.9 M and 9.1 M, respectively.

Propolis is the resinous substance collected by bees from various plants, and used for hive construction and repairs as well as for defense purposes. 1) Humans have used propolis as a natural remedy for thousands of years because of its numerous health benefits. 1) Propolis has been reported to have anticancer, 2,3) antiviral, 4) antifungal, 4,5) antibacterial, 4,6) antioxidant, 7) immunomodulatory, 8) and anti-inflammatory activity. 9) Today, propolis is widely used in food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries as a health supplement. 10) As acontinuation of our previous research on propolis from different geographic locations, 11—19) we previously reported two new flavonoids, 8-[1-(4[1]-hydroxy-3[1]-methoxyphenyl)prop- 2-en-1-yl]galangin (3) and 8-[1-(4[1]-hydroxy-3[1]-methoxyphenyl)prop-2-en-1-yl]chrysin (4), possessing a unique structural feature with a phenylallyl moiety attached to their flavone skeleton, from a methanol (MeOH) extract of Mexican propolis. 19) Interestingly, they showed strong preferential cytotoxic activity against PANC-1 human pancreatic cancer cells (PANC-1) in a nutrient-deprived medium (NDM). Further work on the extract resulted in the isolation of two new phenylallylflavanones (1, 2), shown in Chart 1...

Propolis May Help Treat Rheumatoid Arthritis

consuming propolis aids the immune system, enhances the function of other antibiotics and increases internal healing...

Suppression of interleukin 17 production by Brazilian propolis in mice with collagen-induced arthritis

Mayuri Tanaka, Yoshihiro Okamoto, Takashi Fukui and Toshiyuki Masuzawa; Inflammo Pharmacology; 23 Aug 2011 

Abstract :

Propolis is a resinous substance collected by honeybees from leaf buds and cracks in the bark of various plants. Propolis has been reported to have immunomodulatory activity. We hypothesized that propolis would be able to reduce the disease severity of rheumatoid arthritis. 

We evaluated the effect of Brazilian propolis ethanolic extract on the pathogenesis of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) in mice. Mice fed propolis exhibited significant lower clinical arthritis scores than those fed the control diet. To investigate the mechanism of the effect of propolis on CIA mice, we examined interleukin-17 (IL-17) production in CIA mice fed propolis using an enzyme-linked immunospot assay and flow cytometric analysis. The numbers of IL-17-producing cells in the CIA mice fed propolis were significantly decreased. To determine direct influence of propolis on cytokine production, splenocytes were stimulated with phorbol myristate acetate in the presence of propolis extract in vitro. Concentration-dependent declines in IL-17 expression were observed by ELISA and real-time PCR methods. We further found that propolis significantly inhibited the differentiation of Th17 cells from murine splenocytes in a concentration-dependent manner. 

Taken together, our results may provide a new light on the potential mechanism of the immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory effects of propolis.

Propolis Boosts Response to Vaccines in Hens

Propolis comes to the rescue, once again, to potentially reduce the overabundant use of antibiotics in our food chain...

The Effects of Propolis on Antibody Production by Laying Hens
Poult Sci, 2011 Jun;90(6):1227-33

Propolis is a honeybee product showing several biological properties that enhance the immune response, depending on the concentration and intake period. Because propolis possesses an immunomodulatory action on mammals, the objective of our study was to investigate the effects of propolis on the humoral immune response of laying hens by evaluating antibody production. Laying hens (ISA Brown) were divided into 5 groups with 7 birds each. Group 1 was a nonimmunized control, whereas birds in group 2 were immunized intravenously with SRBC, and those in groups 3, 4, and 5 were treated intraperitoneally with propolis (2, 10, and 50 mg/kg, respectively) on 3 consecutive days and then inoculated intravenously with SRBC. Hematological and serological analyses were carried out on d 0, 3, and 38. Natural and specific antibody levels were determined by hemagglutination with rabbit red blood cells and SRBC, respectively. Propolis-treated birds (50 mg/kg) showed a significant decline in heterophils and in the heterophil:lymphocyte ratio. After SRBC immunization, significant increases in levels of IgG were observed in groups 4 and 5. Furthermore, higher levels of natural antibodies were observed in propolis-treated laying hens. The administration of propolis to laying hens increased the production of IgG specific to SRBC and natural antibodies, and could be used to increase antigen-specific antibody responses to vaccines