Integrative Biology Journals

Natural Products and Bioprospecting ›› 2025, Vol. 15 ›› Issue (6): 61-61.DOI: 10.1007/s13659-025-00545-4

• Review • Previous Articles     Next Articles

Stingless bee propolis: a comprehensive review of chemical constituents and health efficacy

Nosiba A. Alsarayrah1, Rafeezul Mohamed2, Eshaifol A. Omar1   

  1. 1. Department of Toxicology, Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Bertam, 13200, Kepala Batas, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia;
    2. Department of Biomedical Science, Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kepala Batas, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
  • Received:2025-01-19 Online:2026-01-12
  • Contact: Eshaifol A. Omar Email:E-mail:eshaifol@usm.my
  • Supported by:
    Universiti Sains Malaysia, R502-KR-ARU001-0008012332-K134, Eshaifol A. Omar

Stingless bee propolis: a comprehensive review of chemical constituents and health efficacy

Nosiba A. Alsarayrah1, Rafeezul Mohamed2, Eshaifol A. Omar1   

  1. 1. Department of Toxicology, Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Bertam, 13200, Kepala Batas, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia;
    2. Department of Biomedical Science, Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kepala Batas, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
  • 通讯作者: Eshaifol A. Omar Email:E-mail:eshaifol@usm.my
  • 基金资助:
    Universiti Sains Malaysia, R502-KR-ARU001-0008012332-K134, Eshaifol A. Omar

Abstract: Propolis, consisting of plant-derived materials, wax, and bee secretions, is abundant in bioactive constituents like flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and terpenes, which enhance its various biological functions. These encompass antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anticancer, antidiabetic, and immunomodulatory properties. Propolis has demonstrated effectiveness in the prevention and treatment of multiple illnesses, including cardiovascular disease, atherosclerosis, infections, diabetes, wound healing, and burns. Its extensive health benefits endorse its application in medications, nutritional supplements, and cosmetics, where it is acknowledged as a safe and efficacious natural product. Propolis, whether utilized in its raw state, as extracts, or in conjunction with other products, exhibits considerable promise in alternative medicine and nutritional health. Propolis extracts are crucial to examine as a key component in health and wellness, offering prospective applications in disease prevention and therapeutic support Further research is necessary to clarify its molecular mechanisms, examine potential allergic reactions, and determine ideal dosages for various ages. This article provides a comprehensive comparative examination of various propolis types, emphasizing their distinct phytochemical contents and varying biological effects concurrently. It integrates results from both in vitro and in vivo investigations, enhancing the comprehension of health applications and mechanisms of action, grounded comparisons in pertinent prior studies.

Key words: Antioxidant, Nutritional supplements, Chemical analysis, Bioactive constituents, Propolis, Stingless bee

摘要: Propolis, consisting of plant-derived materials, wax, and bee secretions, is abundant in bioactive constituents like flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and terpenes, which enhance its various biological functions. These encompass antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anticancer, antidiabetic, and immunomodulatory properties. Propolis has demonstrated effectiveness in the prevention and treatment of multiple illnesses, including cardiovascular disease, atherosclerosis, infections, diabetes, wound healing, and burns. Its extensive health benefits endorse its application in medications, nutritional supplements, and cosmetics, where it is acknowledged as a safe and efficacious natural product. Propolis, whether utilized in its raw state, as extracts, or in conjunction with other products, exhibits considerable promise in alternative medicine and nutritional health. Propolis extracts are crucial to examine as a key component in health and wellness, offering prospective applications in disease prevention and therapeutic support Further research is necessary to clarify its molecular mechanisms, examine potential allergic reactions, and determine ideal dosages for various ages. This article provides a comprehensive comparative examination of various propolis types, emphasizing their distinct phytochemical contents and varying biological effects concurrently. It integrates results from both in vitro and in vivo investigations, enhancing the comprehension of health applications and mechanisms of action, grounded comparisons in pertinent prior studies.

关键词: Antioxidant, Nutritional supplements, Chemical analysis, Bioactive constituents, Propolis, Stingless bee