Publications on Propolis Balancing the Immune System

Scientific Publications, Propolis and Coronavirus

Research carried out at the Pharmaceutical School of Campinas University in 2008 investigated the effectiveness of propolis on the influenza virus, causing common flu under in vitro conditions in mice. The experiment was conducted with propolis prepared in alcohol. The results of the study showed that propolis was effective in controlling the reproduction of the virus and decreased flu symptoms. The scientists suggested that alcohol extract of propolis is a beneficial dietary supplement for humans against the influenza virus.

Publications on the Effect of Propolis on Balancing Cytokines

Scientific Publications, Propolis and Coronavirus

Research conducted at Otto Von Guericke University, Germany, in 2003 demonstrated that propolis and its flavonoid constituents suppressed cytokines causing inflammation in human body cells and improved the immunomodulatory regulation. The study investigated the effects of different propolis extracts, of the flavonoids hesperidin, quercetin, and caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) on human immune cell functions. The results showed that propolis and its constituents suppressed phytohemagglutinin-induced DNA synthesis of peripheral blood mononuclear cells and T cells in addition to different types of cytokines. In contrast, the production of TGF-beta1 by T regulatory cells was increased. Those results indicated a direct regulatory effect of propolis on the basic functional properties of immune cells. The scientists propose that propolis can be a powerful natural anti-inflammatory medicine influencing different types of immune responses.