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Review
. 2025 Feb 11;26(4):1519.
doi: 10.3390/ijms26041519.

Propolis: A Natural Substance with Multifaceted Properties and Activities

Simona Martinotti  1 , Gregorio Bonsignore  1 , Elia Ranzato  1
Affiliations
Review

Propolis: A Natural Substance with Multifaceted Properties and Activities

Simona Martinotti et al. Int J Mol Sci. .

Abstract

Propolis (bee glue) is a complex mixture of resins, waxes, and gums, and it is a resinous exudate manufactured by honey bees to maintain the integrity of the hive and defend against external threats. This multifunctional material exhibits several striking properties. The anti-inflammatory properties of propolis have made it a subject of traditional medicine over time, from ancient Egyptian mummification to modern complementary medicine. Propolis with rich phytochemicals, such as polyphenols and flavonoids, exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer effects. This review describes multiple properties and uses of propolis, highlighting the role of propolis as an exceptional natural resource with high therapeutic potential.

Keywords: anti-inflammatory role; anticancer properties; cardiovascular disease; metabolic syndrome; propolis; rheumatoid arthritis.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Main known properties of propolis. For further information, see the text. Created in BioRender (https://biorender.com/x11y323, accessed on 9 February 2025).
Figure 2
Figure 2
Typical propolis composition. For further information, see the text. Created in BioRender (https://biorender.com/p26p562, accessed on 9 February 2025).
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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