Abstract
Propolis is a resinous substance collected by bees from plants and its natural product is available as a safe therapeutic option easily administered orally and readily available as a natural supplement and functional food. In this work, we review the most recent scientific evidence involving propolis from two countries (Brazil and Mexico) located in different hemispheres and with varied biomes. Brazil has a scientifically well documented classification of different types of propolis. Although propolis from Brazil and Mexico present varied compositions, they share compounds with recognized biological activities in different extraction processes. Gram-negative bacteria growth is inhibited with lower concentrations of different types of propolis extracts, regardless of origin. Prominent biological activities against cancer cells and fungi were verified in the different types of extracts evaluated. Antiprotozoal activity needs to be further evaluated for propolis of both origins. Regarding the contamination of propolis (e.g., pesticides, toxic metals), few studies have been carried out. However, there is evidence of chemical contamination in propolis by anthropological action. Studies demonstrate the versatility of using propolis in its different forms (extracts, products, etc.), but several potential applications that might improve the value of Brazilian and Mexican propolis should still be investigated.
Highlights
IntroductionThe etymology of the word “propolis” comes from the Greek “pro” (in defense of) and “polis” (city/community), which defines this word as a “natural product in defense of the community” [1]
The etymology of the word “propolis” comes from the Greek “pro” and “polis”, which defines this word as a “natural product in defense of the community” [1]
In the 17th century, propolis became popular in Europe for its antimicrobial activity, so London pharmacopeias listed it on the official drug list [2]
Summary
The etymology of the word “propolis” comes from the Greek “pro” (in defense of) and “polis” (city/community), which defines this word as a “natural product in defense of the community” [1]. Examples and evidence of ancient use of propolis Use by ancient civilizations aimed different purposes such as embalming antiputrefactive (Egyptians) and medical (Greek and Roman) and antipyretic agent (Incas) [3]. In 1908, the first scientific work [4] appeared on the chemical properties and composition of propolis, indexed in the Chemical Abstracts. In 1968, the summary of the first patent, from Romania, appeared in Chemical Abstracts, using propolis for the production of bath lotions (RO 48101) [5]. During wars (South Africa, Russia), propolis was widely used as a
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