Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2017;2017:4272940. doi: 10.1155/2017/4272940. Epub 2017 Apr 30.

The Role of Propolis in Oxidative Stress and Lipid Metabolism: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Mujica V1, Orrego R2,3, Pérez J4, Romero P4, Ovalle P5, Zúñiga-Hernández J6, Arredondo M7, Leiva E2,3.

Author information

Abstract

Although there is evidence of the benefits of propolis on human health, the vast majority of studies have been conducted using animal models. The present study includes the chemical characterization and clinical evaluation of the effects of the oral administration of propolis solution on the oxidative status and modulation of lipids in a human population in Talca, Chile. Chemical characterization of propolis, total phenol, flavonoids, and total antioxidant capacity were determined by ORAC. Identification of phenols and flavonoids in propolis was assessed by HPLC-DAD. A double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted. Subjects provided informed consent form and the Bioethics Committee of the Universidad de Talca approved protocol. Eligible subjects (n = 67) were randomized in two groups: propolis (n = 35) and placebo (n = 32). All subjects were evaluated at 0 (baseline), 45, and 90 days. In the propolis group, we observed that increases in HDL-c went from 53.9 ± 11.9 to 65.8 ± 16.7 mg/dL (p < 0.001) from baseline to 90 days. Compared to placebo subjects, consumption of propolis induced a net increase in GSH levels (p < 0.0001) and a decrease (p < 0.001) in TBARS levels for the propolis group. Our findings indicate potential benefits of propolis use in human health. The use of propolis appears to have positive effects on oxidative status and improvement of HDL-c, both of which contribute to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.

PMID: 28539963 PMCID: PMC5429932 DOI: 10.1155/2017/4272940

 

* THESE STATEMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION. THIS IS NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT CURE OR PREVENT ANY DISEASE.