Using propolis extract as heat stress attenuates agent in ruminants: an overall review

Abstract

Climate change has become a significant concern worldwide, affecting animal production and welfare, particularly in tropical regions with high air temperatures and solar radiation. Heat stress is a major problem that affects animal production, leading to significant economic losses for farmers. One of the main consequences of heat stress in ruminants is the increase in oxidative stress, which occurs when the balance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the capacity of antioxidant defenses to neutralize them is disrupted. Mitigating heat stress's effects is crucial to improving animal welfare and allowing livestock to express their genetic potential. Animal feed additives have been widely used to improve livestock's productive and reproductive performance sustainably and at a lower cost. In this regard, natural additives, such as propolis extract, have gained attention as a potential solution to mitigate the negative effects of heat stress agents in ruminants. Propolis extract contains natural nutrients that have antibacterial effects and contribute to regulating ruminal microbiota, improving production efficiency. This review summarizes the available literature on the effects of propolis supplementation on oxidative stress, reproduction, immunology, and production of ruminants, with a focus on tropical regions where solar radiation is high. The study aims to provide an overall perspective on the potential use of propolis extract as a natural and effective solution to mitigate the adverse effects of heat stress agents in ruminants, which could ultimately improve their health and productivity.