Propolis: An update on its chemical diversity, botanical origin and biological activities

Ghallab, Dina; Shawky, Eman; Mohyeldin, Mohamed; Metwally, Aly M.; Ibrahim, Reham S.

doi:10.21608/japs.2025.336494.1032

Propolis: An update on its chemical diversity, botanical origin and biological activities

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Egypt.

10.21608/japs.2025.336494.1032

Abstract

Propolis is a complex resinous substance meticulously harvested by honeybees from diverse botanical sources and has garnered increasing interest due to its remarkable chemical heterogeneity and extensive range of biological activities. This review provides an exhaustive update about propolis, with an emphasis on its intricate chemical diversity, botanical provenance, and multifaceted pharmacological properties. The chemical constitution of propolis is notably variable, inflected by factors such as geographic location, plant species, and environmental conditions, resulting in a plethora of bioactive compounds, including polyphenolic constituents, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and terpenoids. The botanical origin is pivotal in shaping the phytochemical profile of propolis, with distinct types being classified based on the predominant plant resins, such as poplar, coniferous, and tropical varieties. This botanical diversity inherently modulates the spectrum of bioactivities exhibited by propolis, which encompass a broad assortment of pharmacological effects, embracing antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antitumor actions. These properties collectively position propolis as a promising candidate for therapeutic interventions in areas such as wound healing, oral health, and adjunctive cancer therapies.
Recent investigations have underscored the synergistic potential of propolis with other phytochemicals, suggesting its capacity to enhance the efficacy of combined therapeutic approaches. However, despite its promising bioactivity, challenges persist in elucidating precise mechanisms of action and addressing safety concerns for clinical implementation. This review integrates contemporary research to provide an ample understanding of the multifarious chemical and biological potential of propolis, offering insights into its emerging role in medicinal and industrial applications.

Highlights

• Propolis is a complex resinous substance packed with a plethora of bioactive compounds including mostly polyphenolics and terpenoids.
• The botanical origin is pivotal in shaping the phytochemical profile of propolis types.
• Poplar, Brazilian and Mediterranean propolis represent the dominating types of propolis.
• Propolis exhibits multifaceted pharmacological properties primarily anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and wound healing.
• Propolis offers an ideal candidate in foodstuffs and nutraceutical applications.

Keywords

Main Subjects

Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry

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