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Turn JT, Mayer J, Nagata K, Banovic F, Meichner K, Hurley DJ, Koslowski E, Gogal RM. Impact of apitherapy on canine, equine, and chicken lymphocytes, in vitro. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2024; 268:110700. [PMID: 38217942 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2023.110700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Apitherapy is a form of alternative medicine that utilizes products from the western honeybee (Apis mellifera), including honey, propolis, and honeybee venom, to improve the health status of human patients by altering host immunity. An added benefit of these products is that they are nutraceuticals and relatively inexpensive to aquire. Currently, little is known about the use of honeybee products in veterinary species, as well as their impact on host immunity. In the present in vitro study, honey, propolis, and honeybee venom were co-cultured with enriched canine, equine, and chicken peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) with cell proliferation, cell viability/apoptosis, and cellular morphology evaluated. Concanavalin A (Con A) and dexamethasone were used as stimulatory and suppressive controls, respectively. Honeybee products' effects on the three veterinary species varied by product and the species. Honey stimulated the PBLs proliferation in all three species but also displayed some increased cytotoxicity. Propolis stimulated proliferation in canine and equine PBLs, however, it suppressed proliferation in the chicken PBLs. Honeybee venom was the strongest PBL stimulant for all three species and in the equine, surpassed the stimulant response of Con A and yet, enhanced PBL cell viability post culture. In summary, the results of this preliminary in vitro study show that these three honeybee products do impact lymphocyte proliferation and viability in dogs, horses, and chickens, and that more research both in vitro and in vivo will be necessary to draw conclusions regarding their future use as immune stimulants or inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey T Turn
- Department of Small Animal Medicine & Surgery, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, and ETR Laboratories, Inc., Leominster, MA, USA; Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, and ETR Laboratories, Inc., Leominster, MA, USA
| | - Joerg Mayer
- Department of Small Animal Medicine & Surgery, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, and ETR Laboratories, Inc., Leominster, MA, USA
| | - Koichi Nagata
- Department of Small Animal Medicine & Surgery, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, and ETR Laboratories, Inc., Leominster, MA, USA
| | - Frane Banovic
- Department of Small Animal Medicine & Surgery, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, and ETR Laboratories, Inc., Leominster, MA, USA
| | - Kristina Meichner
- Department of Pathology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, and ETR Laboratories, Inc., Leominster, MA, USA
| | - David J Hurley
- Department of Population Health, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, and ETR Laboratories, Inc., Leominster, MA, USA
| | | | - Robert M Gogal
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, and ETR Laboratories, Inc., Leominster, MA, USA.
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Nomura K, Nakayama M, Okizaki A. Effects of apitherapy against salivary gland disorder after radioactive iodine therapy for differentiated thyroid cancer. Ann Nucl Med 2023:10.1007/s12149-023-01845-w. [PMID: 37149836 DOI: 10.1007/s12149-023-01845-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Sialadenitis and salivary gland disorders are complications of radioactive iodine therapy (RAIT) that affect the quality of life of patients with differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC). The current study aimed to provide evidence on the protective effect of apitherapy on salivary gland function during RAIT in patients with DTC. METHODS In total, 120 patients with DTC who underwent total thyroidectomy were divided into the apitherapy group (group A, n = 60) and the control group (group B, n = 60). Group A received 2.5 g of acacia honey three times daily after each meal during admission for RAIT. Statistical analyses were performed using the Saxon test (which is used to evaluate saliva volume) and salivary gland scintigraphy (which is applied to assess maximum uptake ratio and washout ratio). RESULTS Compared with group B, group A presented with a more significantly positive change in the rate of amount of saliva before and after treatment (P < 0.01). Group B presented a significant decrease in the maximum uptake ratio of the bilateral parotid and submandibular glands on salivary gland scintigraphy (P < 0.05) and washout ratio of all salivary glands (P < 0.05). Group A did not present significant differences in the maximum uptake ratio and washout ratio. CONCLUSIONS Apitherapy can have protective effects against salivary gland disorder associated with RAIT in patients with DTC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenta Nomura
- Department of Radiology, Asahikawa Medical University, Midorigaoka-Higashi 2-1-1-1, Asahikawa, Hokkaido, 078-8510, Japan.
| | - Michihiro Nakayama
- Department of Radiology, Asahikawa Medical University, Midorigaoka-Higashi 2-1-1-1, Asahikawa, Hokkaido, 078-8510, Japan
| | - Atsutaka Okizaki
- Department of Radiology, Asahikawa Medical University, Midorigaoka-Higashi 2-1-1-1, Asahikawa, Hokkaido, 078-8510, Japan
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Obeidat M, Al-Khraisat IF, Jaradat DMM, Ghanim BY, Abdallah QM, Arqoub DA, Sabbah D, Al-Sanabra OM, Arafat T, Qinna NA. Mellitin peptide quantification in seasonally collected crude bee venom and its anticancer effects on myelogenous K562 human leukaemia cell line. BMC Complement Med Ther 2023; 23:132. [PMID: 37098530 PMCID: PMC10127481 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-023-03897-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Apitherapy is an emerging field in cancer research, particularly in developing communities. The potency of Melittin (MEL), a major constituent in bee venom is accounted for the cytotoxic capacity against cancer cells. It is postulated that the genotype of bees and the time of venom collection influences its specific activity against certain types of cancer. METHOD Hereby, Jordanian crude bee venom (JCBV) was collected during different seasons of the year, specifically spring, summer and autumn and investigated for in vitro antitumour effects. Venom collected during springtime comprised the highest quantity of MEL in comparison to venom collected some other time. Springtime-collected JCBV extract and MEL were tested on an immortal myelogenous leukaemia cell line, namely K562 leukemic cells. Treated cells were examined for cell modality via flow cytometry analysis and cell death mediating gene expressions. RESULTS Springtime-collected JCBV extract and MEL showed an IC50 of 3.7 ± 0.37 μg/ml and 1.84 ± 0.75 μg/ml, respectively. In comparison to JCBV and positive control, MEL-treated cells exhibited late apoptotic death with a moderate cellular arrest at G0/G1 and an increase of cell number at G2/M phase. Expression of NF-κB/MAPK14 axis was inhibited in MEL and JCBV-treated cells, as well as expression of c-MYC and CDK4. Moreover, marked upregulation in ABL1, JUN and TNF was observed. In conclusion, springtime-collected JCBV showed the highest content of MEL while both JCBV and pure MEL showed apoptotic, necrotic, and cell cycle arrest efficiency against K562 leukemic cells. CONCLUSION Integration of bee venom in chemotherapy needs more investigation and should be carefully translated into clinical use. During such translation, the correlation of bee genotype, collection time and concentration of MEL in CBV should be profiled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maher Obeidat
- Department of Medical Laboratory Analysis, Faculty of Science, Al-Balqa Applied University, Al-Salt, Jordan
| | - Ihab F Al-Khraisat
- Department of Medical Laboratory Analysis, Faculty of Science, Al-Balqa Applied University, Al-Salt, Jordan
| | - Da'san M M Jaradat
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Al-Balqa Applied University, Al-Salt, Jordan
| | - Bayan Y Ghanim
- Department of Pharmacology and Biomedical Sciences, University of Petra Pharmaceutical Center (UPPC), Faculty of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of Petra, P.O. Box 961343, Amman, Jordan
| | - Qasem M Abdallah
- Department of Pharmacology and Biomedical Sciences, University of Petra Pharmaceutical Center (UPPC), Faculty of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of Petra, P.O. Box 961343, Amman, Jordan
| | - Duaa Abu Arqoub
- Department of Pharmacology and Biomedical Sciences, University of Petra Pharmaceutical Center (UPPC), Faculty of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of Petra, P.O. Box 961343, Amman, Jordan
| | - Duaa Sabbah
- Department of Pharmacology and Biomedical Sciences, University of Petra Pharmaceutical Center (UPPC), Faculty of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of Petra, P.O. Box 961343, Amman, Jordan
| | - Ola M Al-Sanabra
- Department of Medical Laboratory Analysis, Faculty of Science, Al-Balqa Applied University, Al-Salt, Jordan
| | - Tawfiq Arafat
- Jordan Center for Pharmaceutical Research (JCPR), Amman, Jordan
| | - Nidal A Qinna
- Department of Pharmacology and Biomedical Sciences, University of Petra Pharmaceutical Center (UPPC), Faculty of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of Petra, P.O. Box 961343, Amman, Jordan.
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Luque-Bracho A, Rosales Y, Vergara-Buenaventura A. The benefits of propolis in periodontal therapy. A scoping review of preclinical and clinical studies. J Ethnopharmacol 2023; 303:115926. [PMID: 36400346 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The treatment of periodontal disease (PD) is aimed at adequate control of bacterial plaque. In many patients mechanical methods are unable to eliminate this plaque leading to the need for adjuvant chemical products. Propolis is a natural product that has demonstrated therapeutic properties and has shown to be effective as an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agent in dentistry. AIM OF THE STUDY Considering the beneficial effects of propolis on various oral conditions, this study aimed to review, update and summarize the available evidence on the benefits of propolis in in vitro studies, animal models, and human clinical trials on non-surgical periodontal therapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS An electronic search in three databases was performed up to December 2021. The search strategy included the terms "propolis" and "periodontal disease" to identify relevant studies on the potential advantages of propolis in periodontal therapy in in vitro studies, animal models, and human clinical trials. RESULTS The search yielded 538 results, discarding 459 studies that did not clearly meet the inclusion criteria. A total of 42 studies were included: 18 in vitro, one animal, and 23 randomized clinical trials. In vitro studies have demonstrated that propolis has antimicrobial activity against periodontal pathogens and clinical studies have reported its use as an adjunct to non-surgical periodontal therapy. The clinical effects of propolis have been reported in conjunction with prophylaxis, polishing, and scaling and root planing (SRP). It has shown to have anti-plaque activity and improve gingival health. Propolis was found to be more effective in improving clinical parameters than conventional treatment (SRP alone) and demonstrated similar efficacy in treating chronic periodontitis compared to positive controls. Only one study reported an allergic reaction. CONCLUSION The evidence available on the benefits of propolis in in vitro studies, animal models, and clinical trials suggests that propolis could be a promising adjunct to conventional therapy of gingivitis and periodontitis. However, further studies are needed to determine its superiority to other therapies in the treatment of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angel Luque-Bracho
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Cientifica del Sur, Lima, Peru.
| | - Yasmin Rosales
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Cientifica del Sur, Lima, Peru.
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Chhawchharia A, Haines RR, Green KJ, Barnett TC, Bowen AC, Hammer KA. In vitro antibacterial activity of Western Australian honeys, and manuka honey, against bacteria implicated in impetigo. Complement Ther Clin Pract 2022; 49:101640. [PMID: 35868137 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2022.101640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Impetigo is a contagious skin disease caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. Without treatment, impetigo may be recurrent, develop into severe disease, or have serious, life-threatening sequelae. Standard treatment consists of topical or systemic antibiotic therapy (depending on severity), however, due to antibiotic resistance some therapies are increasingly ineffective. In this study we evaluated the potential for honey as an alternative treatment for impetigo. A broth microdilution assay in 96-well microtitre trays was used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of six monofloral honeys (jarrah, marri, red bell, banksia, wandoo, and manuka), a multifloral honey and artificial honey against S. aureus (n = 10), S. pyogenes (n = 10), and coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) (n = 10). The optical density (OD) of all microtitre tray wells was also determined before and after assay incubation to analyse whether sub-MIC growth inhibition occurred. Jarrah, marri, red bell, banksia, and manuka honeys were highly effective at inhibiting S. aureus and CoNS, with MIC50 values ranging from 4 to 8% w/v honey. S. pyogenes was also inhibited by these same honeys, albeit at higher concentrations (8-29% w/v). Wandoo and multifloral honeys had the least antibacterial activity with MICs of >30% (w/v) for all isolates. However, OD data indicated that sub-MIC concentrations of honey were still partially restricting bacterial growth. Our pre-clinical data indicate that honey may be a potential therapeutic agent for the routine treatment of mild impetigo, and we suggest that clinical trials would be appropriate to further investigate this.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayushi Chhawchharia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, 6009, Australia
| | - Robbie R Haines
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, 6009, Australia; Cooperative Research Centre for Honey Bee Products Limited (CRC HBP), 128 Yanchep Beach Road, Yanchep, 6035, Australia
| | - Kathryn J Green
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, 6009, Australia; Cooperative Research Centre for Honey Bee Products Limited (CRC HBP), 128 Yanchep Beach Road, Yanchep, 6035, Australia
| | - Timothy C Barnett
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, 6009, Australia; Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, 6009, Australia
| | - Asha C Bowen
- Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, 6009, Australia; School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, 6009, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, 6009, Australia
| | - Katherine A Hammer
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, 6009, Australia; Cooperative Research Centre for Honey Bee Products Limited (CRC HBP), 128 Yanchep Beach Road, Yanchep, 6035, Australia.
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Rocha MP, Amorim JM, Lima WG, Brito JCM, da Cruz Nizer WS. Effect of honey and propolis, compared to acyclovir, against Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)-induced lesions: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Ethnopharmacol 2022; 287:114939. [PMID: 34965458 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Apitherapy is a branch of traditional medicine that uses bee products to manage numerous diseases. In this context, the antiherpetic effect of these bee products has been demonstrated in some studies with some controversial results. AIM OF THE STUDY Thus, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to compare the effectiveness of honey and propolis with acyclovir, the reference drug, in the treatment of cold sores and genital herpes. MATERIALS AND METHODS The selection of eligible studies was conducted through the search in Pubmed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Cochrane Library, LILACS, and Electronic Scientific Library. RESULTS The search yielded 147 articles, of which nine were considered eligible for analysis. The analysis of these studies showed that the healing property of propolis is superior to that obtained for acyclovir (95% CI: 2.70 to 8.25; p = 0.0001). Furthermore, honey also presented a better healing effect than acyclovir against Herpes simplex virus-induced wounds (95% CI: 3.58 to -0.19; p = 0.03), inducing complete re-epithelization of herpetic lesions after 8 days, while for acyclovir, the healing time average was 9 days. It also provoked a similar reduction of pain caused by herpetic compared to acyclovir (95% CI: 2.27 to -0.42; p = 0.18). CONCLUSIONS Overall, these results confirm the use of honey and propolis as potent antiherpetic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Pereira Rocha
- Departamento de Produtos Farmacêuticos, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Juliana Mendes Amorim
- Departamento de Produtos Farmacêuticos, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - William Gustavo Lima
- Departamento de Produtos Farmacêuticos, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
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Münstedt K, Männle H. Seasonal allergic rhinitis and the role of apitherapy. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr) 2020; 48:582-8. [PMID: 32451131 DOI: 10.1016/j.aller.2020.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Revised: 03/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Apitherapy represents a certain form of complementary and alternative medicine that uses bee products in combination with other methods from this field. One of the basic concepts of this type of medicine is that all diseases can be treated using apitherapy. This study was performed to assess the recommendations from authors of books on apitherapy regarding the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis and compare them to findings from the scientific literature. METHODS One hundred and twenty-nine books on apitherapy were analysed regarding recommendations for allergic seasonal rhinitis. Scientific evidence regarding the efficacy of using various bee products was searched via PubMed and JUSTfind. RESULTS Only 38.8% of the apitherapy books mentioned seasonal allergic rhinitis. Among these books, we found 29 different recommendations in favour of bee products and one against the use of honey. The most reasonable recommendation according to clinical studies on the subject, namely the use of a mix of honey and pollen, was only found once (0.8%). CONCLUSIONS The large discrepancies and number of different recommendations demonstrate that apitherapy is not a consistent type of medicine. The recommendations regarding seasonal allergic rhinitis in the vast majority of apitherapy books cannot be considered adequate when compared to the scientific findings.
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Abstract
PURPOSE Apitherapy, a method from the field of complementary and alternative medicine, claims that all health problems including menopausal problems can be cured using bee products, especially honey, bee-collected pollen, propolis, and royal jelly. This study was to investigate the recommendations of protagonists of holistic apitherapy and compare these to the current evidence. METHODS Since holistic apitherapy is only promoted in books and apitherapeutical congresses, we identified books on the topic in English, French, and German language via bookseller platforms and the JUSTfind system of the Justus-Liebig-University Gießen, Germany, which comprises 337 databases from the EBSCO Discovery Service. RESULTS Only 29.5% (n = 38) of the apitherapy books mentioned the topic of menopausal problems. Among these, there were 24 different recommendations. Royal jelly is the number one recommended therapy, followed by pollen, the combination of pollen and royal jelly, and propolis. All other recommendations are mentioned just once. The recommendation regarding royal jelly must be regarded as correct. Strictly speaking, evidence regarding bee-collected pollen is poor, since all studies on pollen did not investigate pollen directly, but pollen extracts and these pollens came from pollen that was anemophilous but not entomophilous. CONCLUSION Royal jelly and pollen could be interesting treatment options in cases of menopausal symptoms. In order to promote bee products for menopausal symptoms with a good conscience trials, comparing bee products against other options, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, C. racemosa extracts, and/or yoga should be initiated, since these methods have already proven their value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karsten Münstedt
- Ortenau Klinikum Offenburg-Kehl, Ebertplatz 12, 77654, Offenburg, Germany.
| | - Heidrun Männle
- Ortenau Klinikum Offenburg-Kehl, Ebertplatz 12, 77654, Offenburg, Germany
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Münstedt K, Männle H. Bee products and their role in cancer prevention and treatment. Complement Ther Med 2020; 51:102390. [PMID: 32507447 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2020.102390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Apitherapy, a method from the field of complementary and alternative medicine, promises better survival and even cure in cases of cancer. DESIGN 129 books on apitherapy in English, French and German languages were analysed regarding the recommendations concerning cancer. The recommendations were compared to the results from clinical studies in the literature. RESULTS Eighteen books recommend apitherapy for cancer prevention, thirty-nine for complementary cancer treatment and seventeen books considered apitherapy able to cure cancer. Pollen and Propolis were mainly recommended in order to stimulate the immune system and/or to improve cancer nutrition. Interestingly, few books provided specific information and no book provided adequate information in comparison to what is known from clinical studies on bee products. Data on relevant aspects of cancer treatment were not mentioned. This especially refers to data of bee products and radiotherapy, chemotherapy and radio-chemotherapy-induced oral mucositis, radiotherapy-induced skin toxicity, radiotherapy-induced xerostomia, cancer-related fatigue, febrile neutropenia, cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity, tyrosine kinase inhibitor-induced toxicity, side effects of antihormonal treatment and cancer-related wounds. CONCLUSIONS Apitherapeutic books are not good advisors regarding all aspects of cancer. However, the potential of some bee products justifies further trials, especially on cancer prevention and complementary treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karsten Münstedt
- Ortenau Klinikum Offenburg-Kehl, Ebertplatz 12, 77654 Offenburg, Germany.
| | - Heidrun Männle
- Ortenau Klinikum Offenburg-Kehl, Ebertplatz 12, 77654 Offenburg, Germany
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Brown E, O'Brien M, Georges K, Suepaul S. Physical characteristics and antimicrobial properties of Apis mellifera, Frieseomelitta nigra and Melipona favosa bee honeys from apiaries in Trinidad and Tobago. BMC Complement Med Ther 2020; 20:85. [PMID: 32178659 PMCID: PMC7076972 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-020-2829-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Honey is a versatile and complex substance consisting of bioactive chemicals which vary according to many bee and environmental factors. The aim of this study was to assess the physical and antimicrobial properties of five honey samples obtained from three species of bees; two stingless bees, Frieseomelitta nigra and Melipona favosa and one stinging bee, Apis mellifera (fresh and aged honey). Samples were acquired from apiaries across Trinidad and Tobago. An artificial honey, made from sugar, was also used for comparison. Methods Physical properties such as appearance, pH, moisture content, sugar content and specific gravity were determined. Antimicrobial activity was assessed utilizing the agar diffusion assay and comparison to a phenol equivalence. The broth microdilution test was performed to determine the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and the minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) of the five honey samples against four common pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Streptococcus pyogenes and Haemophilus influenzae. Results All honey samples were acidic, with pH values ranging from 2.88 (M. favosa of Tobago) to 3.91 (fresh A. mellifera). Sugar content ranged from 66.0 to 81.6% with the highest values detected in stinging bee honeys of the A. mellifera (81.6 and 80.5°Bx). Moisture content ranged from 16.9% for aged A. mellifera honey (from Trinidad) to 32.4% for F. nigra honey (from Tobago). The MICs (2 to 16%) and MBCs (2 to 32%) of stingless bee honeys were lower than that of stinging bee and artificial honeys (16 to > 32%). Stingless bee honeys also exhibited a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms with higher phenol equivalence values (4.5 to 28.6%) than the A. mellifera honeys (0 to 3.4%) against the isolates tested. M. favosa honey of Tobago displayed the greatest antimicrobial activity as indicated by the high phenol equivalence and low MIC and MBC values. Conclusions Stingless bee honeys from Tobago showed the greatest antimicrobial activity when compared to the other honeys used in this study. M. favosa honey of Tobago showed the most potential for use as medicinal honey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elijah Brown
- Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St Augustine Campus, Building #49 Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex, Mt Hope, Trinidad, West Indies, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Michel O'Brien
- Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St Augustine Campus, Building #49 Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex, Mt Hope, Trinidad, West Indies, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Karla Georges
- Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St Augustine Campus, Building #49 Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex, Mt Hope, Trinidad, West Indies, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Sharianne Suepaul
- Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St Augustine Campus, Building #49 Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex, Mt Hope, Trinidad, West Indies, Trinidad and Tobago.
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Jagua-Gualdrón A, Peña-Latorre JA, Fernadez-Bernal RE. Apitherapy for Osteoarthritis: Perspectives from Basic Research. Complement Med Res 2020; 27:184-192. [PMID: 31896107 DOI: 10.1159/000505015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Osteoarthritis is one of the most common rheumatic disease in the world and one of the leading causes of disability in the elderly. There is still no curative management for the disease, so the search for new therapeutic alternatives continues. -Apitherapy is a therapeutic tool based on the use of beehive products used since ancient times and, at present, their mechanism of action begins to be known. Many of the mechanisms of action of the beehive products are useful for chronic articular pathophysiological processes such as those described in osteoarthritis. This article presents a review of the current state of understanding of the mechanisms through which bee venom, propolis, honey, pollen, and royal jelly may act on osteoarthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Jagua-Gualdrón
- Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia, .,Apitherapy Investigation and Development Group, Sociedad Colombiana de Apiterapia - Colombian Apitherapy Society, Bogotá, Colombia,
| | - José Adolfo Peña-Latorre
- Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia.,Apitherapy Investigation and Development Group, Sociedad Colombiana de Apiterapia - Colombian Apitherapy Society, Bogotá, Colombia.,Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Roger Edwin Fernadez-Bernal
- Apitherapy Investigation and Development Group, Sociedad Colombiana de Apiterapia - Colombian Apitherapy Society, Bogotá, Colombia.,Universidad Provada del Valle, Cochabamba Bolivia Medical Director Medizen Bolivia, Cochabamba, Bolivia
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Münstedt K, Funk D, Riepen T, Berkes E, Hübner J. Acceptance of apitherapeutic methods in patients consulting general physicians or gynaecologists. Complement Ther Clin Pract 2019; 35:154-157. [PMID: 31003651 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2019.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2018] [Revised: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND and purpose: Apitherapists promote the medical use of products from the beehive (bee venom, propolis, pollen, honey, royal jelly, dead bees, apilarnil, wax, wax moths), the use of beehive air or therapeutic sleep on a beehive. However, little is known about how far such treatment options are perceived as acceptable by patients. METHODS Patients visiting either a family doctor in Kehl or a gynecologist in Weilburg (both in Germany) were asked to rate their knowledge of apitherapy as well as their readiness to use apitherapeutic measures. RESULTS Honey and propolis represent the best-known bee products whereas beehive air and apilarnil are greatly unknown to the patients. Only honey seems to be an acceptable treatment option whereas propolis, pollen and royal jelly seem to be less acceptable. Bee venom was not considered an interesting treatment possibility and, in particular, live bee stings were considered less desirable. This study found that gender and acquaintance with a beekeeper influenced the patients' ratings but age, education and current medical condition did not. CONCLUSION Live bee stings, apilarnil or the inhalation of beehive air are not appealing to the majority of patients. Before apitherapeutic methods are promoted, it seems to be important to know about patients' willingness to tolerate such treatments. Perhaps therapy modifications can be offered which seem more acceptable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karsten Münstedt
- Ortenau Klinikum Offenburg, Ebertplatz 12, 77654, Offenburg, Germany.
| | | | | | - Enikö Berkes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Giessen, Klinikstrasse 29, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Jutta Hübner
- Department of Hematology and Internal Oncology, University of Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany
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Bilal B, Azim MK. Nematicidal activity of 'major royal jelly protein'-containing glycoproteins from Acacia honey. Exp Parasitol 2018; 192:52-59. [PMID: 30040959 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2018.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Revised: 07/04/2018] [Accepted: 07/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Parasitic nematodes infect more than two billion people worldwide particularly in developing countries. We previously reported nematicidal activity of natural honey using model nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. In this study, characterization of nematicidal effects of natural honey and its glycoproteins has been carried out. Chromatographically separated honey glycoproteins showed potent anti-C. elegans activity (LD50 = 100 ng proteins/μL). Honey glycoproteins with molecular masses of ∼260 kD and ∼160 kD comprised of 'major royal jelly protein-1'-containing complexes. In these complexes, MRJP1 was present in different glycosylation forms. Quantitative PCR based gene expression assays described molecular functions of C. elegans affected by honey and honey glycoproteins. Expression of 14 gene transcripts associated with key cellular and molecular functions including energy metabolism, cytoskeleton, cell division, transcription and translation was analyzed. Acacia honey exerted a concentration-dependent alteration of gene transcripts involved in the citric acid cycle (mdh-1 and idhg-1) and cytoskeleton (act-1, act-2, and arp6). Likewise, MRJP1-containing glycoproteins caused down-regulation of arp-6 and idhg-1; and up-regulation of act-1 and mdh-1 gene transcripts. Consistent down-regulation of isocitrate dehydrogenase encoding idhg-1 gene which is among the rate-controlling enzymes of the citric acid cycle was considered as main biochemical factor involved in the nematicidal activity of honey and MRJP-containing glycoproteins. Acacia honey suppressed the expression of gene transcripts encoding actin-2, while honey glycoproteins did not. Hence, honey partly exerted anti-C. elegans activity by decreasing the transcription of actin-2 gene transcripts, demonstrated by a defect in the movement and egg laying. Moreover, arp-6 gene transcripts encoding actin-related protein 6 was significantly and constantly down-regulated by honey and honey proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bushra Bilal
- H.E.J. Research Institute of Chemistry, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - M Kamran Azim
- H.E.J. Research Institute of Chemistry, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan; Department of Biosciences, Mohammad Ali Jinnah University, Karachi, Pakistan.
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15
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El-Gammal E, Nardo VD, Daaboul F, Tchernev G, Wollina U, Lotti J, Lotti T. Apitherapy as a New Approach in Treatment of Palmoplantar Psoriasis. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2018; 6:1059-1061. [PMID: 29983801 PMCID: PMC6026437 DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2018.135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2018] [Revised: 02/20/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Apitherapy is the medical use of honey bee products, “honey, propolis, royal jelly, bee wax, and bee venom to relieve human ailments. Propolis is one of the most well-documented products derived from the honeybee and has always played an important role in traditional folk medicine. AIM: The aim was to justify the consideration of Aloe Vera as an effective remedy for the treatment of psoriasis. METHODS: The study follows (857) patients (354 females, 503 males) with a mean age range from (9 - 62) years, affected with moderate to severe psoriasis in palms and foot soles treated by a combination mixture of propolis and Aloe in the form of an ointment (Aloreed) and Beauty reed cream. The treatment duration was for 12 weeks. Results were evaluated by using clinical, histological and statistical parameters. RESULTS: After the 12 - week treatment, we observed an 86% overall response rate from which 62% showed excellent results and 24% showed good results, therefore proving the efficiency in the use of the mixture of propolis 50% and aloe vera 3% as topically applied ointment in the treatment of mild to moderate psoriasis CONCLUSION: Patients who have palmoplantar psoriasis, who were treated with a topically applied mixture of propolis (50%) and aloe vera (3%), have shown noteworthy improvement thus proving the efficiency of propolis and aloe vera in the treatment of mild to moderate psoriasis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Veronica Di Nardo
- Department of Nuclear, Subnuclear and Radiation Physics, University of Rome "G. Marconi", Rome, Italy
| | - Farah Daaboul
- Institute of Dermatological and Regenerative Sciences - Dermatology and Nutrition, Florence, Italy
| | - Georgi Tchernev
- Medical Institute of Ministry of Interior (MVR), Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Dermatologic Surgery, Sofia, Bulgaria.,Onkoderma, Policlinic for Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Uwe Wollina
- Städtisches Klinikum Dresden, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, Dresden, Germany
| | - Jacopo Lotti
- Department of Nuclear, Subnuclear and Radiation Physics, University of Rome "G. Marconi", Rome, Italy
| | - Torello Lotti
- University "G. Marconi" - Institute of Dermatology, Rome, Italy
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16
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El-Gammal A, Nardo VD, Daaboul F, Tchernev G, Wollina U, Lotti J, Lotti T. Is There a Place for Local Natural Treatment of Psoriasis? Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2018; 6:839-842. [PMID: 29875856 PMCID: PMC5985880 DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2018.106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2018] [Revised: 03/21/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Apitherapy is the medical use of honey bee products (honey, propolis, royal jelly, bee wax, and bee venom) to relieve human ailments, propolis in particularly, rich in essential oils such as flavonoid. Propolis is derived from tree buds and plants. It is considered as one of the most well-documented products from the honeybee and has always played an important role in traditional folk medicine. Another renowned plant is Aloe vera appertaining to the Liliaceae family. Its mucilaginous gel has been extensively used in many cultures for its apparent effectiveness in treating wounds, burns, itchiness and hair loss. AIM: The aim was to assess the efficacy of a mixture in an ointment form of propolis (50%) and aloe vera (3%), in the treatment of mild to moderate psoriasis. METHODS: In this double-blind control study, 2248 patients with both mild to moderate cases of psoriasis were evaluated from 2012 to 2015. RESULTS: In Group 1 the overall response at the end of 12 weeks was as follows: Cleared in 64.4% (excellent response), good response in 22.2%, and weak response in 5.6% and no response in 7.7%. In Group 2 (placebo group) no significant improvement was observed after 12 weeks of treatment. Also, histology also demonstrated a marked reduction in hyperkeratosis and acanthosis. CONCLUSION: In comparison with Group 2 (placebo group) patients in Group 1, treated with a mixture of propolis (50%) and aloe vera (3%), in the form of an ointment have shown noteworthy improvement thus substantiating the therapeutic value of propolis and aloe vera in the treatment of mild to moderate psoriasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agharid El-Gammal
- Department of Nuclear, Subnuclear and Radiation Physics, University of Rome "G. Marconi", Rome, Italy
| | - Veronica Di Nardo
- Department of Nuclear, Subnuclear and Radiation Physics, University of Rome "G. Marconi", Rome, Italy
| | - Farah Daaboul
- Institute of Dermatological and Regenerative Sciences, Dermatology and Nutrition, Via Alfieri 28, Florence 50121, Italy
| | - Georgi Tchernev
- Medical Institute of Ministry of Interior (MVR-Sofia), Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Dermatologic Surgery General Skobelev Nr 79, Sofia 1606, Bulgaria.,Onkoderma - Policlinic for Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery, General Skobelev 26, Sofia 1407, Bulgaria
| | - Uwe Wollina
- Städtisches Klinikum Dresden, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, Academic Friedrichstrasse 41, Dresden 01067, Germany
| | - Jacopo Lotti
- University G. Marconi of Rome, Dept. of Nuclear, Subnuclear and Radiation Physics, Rome, Italy
| | - Torello Lotti
- Università Degli Studi "G. Marconi", Institute of Dermatology, Rome, Italy
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Şenel E, Demir E. Bibliometric analysis of apitherapy in complementary medicine literature between 1980 and 2016. Complement Ther Clin Pract 2018; 31:47-52. [PMID: 29705479 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2018.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2018] [Accepted: 02/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Apitherapy is the medical use and the application of honey bee products and in recent years there has been a growing interest in studies of this field. We aimed to perform a bibliometric study in the apitherapy literature. We used Web of Science database in this study and our search retrieved a total of 6917 documents of which great majority (82.4%) was original articles. Brazil was found to ranked first on the publication number with 889 papers followed by the USA, China, Japan and Turkey. We measured a productivity score for each country and the most productive countries in apitherapy field were Switzerland (2.978), Croatia (2.074), and Bulgaria (1.840). Propolis was the most used keyword followed by bee venom, flavonoids, apis mellifera and apoptosis. A moderate correlation was detected between number of publications and GDP. To the best of our knowledge our study was the first in this area and we proposed that further studies should be supported in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Engin Şenel
- Hitit University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Dermatology and Venerology, Çorum, Turkey; Hitit University, Traditional and Complementary Medicine Application and Research Center, Çorum, Turkey; Hitit University, Beekeeping and Bee Products Application and Research Center, Çorum, Turkey.
| | - Emre Demir
- Hitit University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Biostatistics, Çorum, Turkey
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Sun Y, Han M, Shen Z, Huang H, Miao X. Anti-hypertensive and cardioprotective effects of a novel apitherapy formulation via upregulation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α and -γ in spontaneous hypertensive rats. Saudi J Biol Sci 2017; 25:213-219. [PMID: 29472767 PMCID: PMC5816011 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2017.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2017] [Revised: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Ventricular remodeling is associated with many heart diseases, and ventricular remodeling induced by hypertension can be fatal independent of hypertension. In this study, we prepared a novel apitherapy formulation, designated Bao-Yuan-Ling (BYL), which contained propolis, royal jelly, and bee venom, to treat spontaneous hypertensive rats (SHRs). We then evaluated the pharmacology of BYL and the potential mechanisms through which BYL affects hypertension and ventricular remodeling. We found that BYL treatment could reduce blood pressure in SHRs. Thereafter, we found that BYL treatment reduced serum levels of angiotensin II, endothelin 1, and transforming growth factor-β and improved the myocardial structure. Moreover, the results of quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction indicated that BYL treatment could upregulate the mRNA expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-α and PPAR-γ. Thus, we could conclude that BYL had hypotensive and cardioprotective effects in SHRs, potentially through improvement of myocardial energy metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanru Sun
- College of Life Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350000, China.,College of Bee Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350000, China
| | - Mingfeng Han
- National United Engineering Laboratory of Natural Biological Toxins, Fuzhou 350000, China
| | - Zhenhuang Shen
- National United Engineering Laboratory of Natural Biological Toxins, Fuzhou 350000, China
| | - Haibo Huang
- National United Engineering Laboratory of Natural Biological Toxins, Fuzhou 350000, China
| | - Xiaoqing Miao
- College of Bee Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350000, China.,National United Engineering Laboratory of Natural Biological Toxins, Fuzhou 350000, China
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19
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Roshan N, Rippers T, Locher C, Hammer KA. Antibacterial activity and chemical characteristics of several Western Australian honeys compared to manuka honey and pasture honey. Arch Microbiol 2017; 199:347-55. [PMID: 27785532 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-016-1308-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2016] [Revised: 10/14/2016] [Accepted: 10/16/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The physicochemical parameters and antibacterial activity of 10 Western Australian (WA) and two comparator honeys were determined. Honeys showed a pH range of 4.0-4.7, colour range of 41.3-470.7 mAU, methylglyoxal levels ranging from 82.2 to 325.9 mg kg-1 and hydrogen peroxide levels after 2 h of 22.7-295.5 µM. Antibacterial activity was assessed by the disc diffusion assay, phenol equivalence assay, determination of minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations and a time-kill assay. Activity was shown for all honeys by one or more method, however, activity varied according to which assay was used. Minimum inhibitory concentrations for WA honeys against 10 organisms ranged from 4.0 to >32.0% (w/v). Removal of hydrogen peroxide activity by catalase resulted in decreased activity for several honeys. Overall, the data showed that honeys in addition to those derived from Leptospermum spp. have antimicrobial activity and should not be overlooked as potential sources of clinically useful honey.
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20
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Can Z, Yildiz O, Sahin H, Akyuz Turumtay E, Silici S, Kolayli S. An investigation of Turkish honeys: their physico-chemical properties, antioxidant capacities and phenolic profiles. Food Chem 2015; 180:133-141. [PMID: 25766810 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2015.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 227] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2014] [Revised: 02/02/2015] [Accepted: 02/05/2015] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated some physico-chemical and biochemical characteristics of different honey types belonging to Turkish flora. Sixty-two honey samples were examined on the basis of pollen analyses, including 11 unifloral honeys (chestnut, heather, chaste tree, rhododendron, common eryngo, lavender, Jerusalem tea, astragalus, clover and acacia), two different honeydew honeys (lime and oak), and 7 different multifloral honeys. Electrical conductivity, moisture, Hunter color values, HMF, proline, diastase number, and sugar analyses of the honey samples were assessed for chemical characterization. Some phenolic components were analyzed by reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) to determine honeys' phenolic profiles. Total phenolic compounds, total flavonoids, ferric reducing antioxidant capacity (FRAP) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging activity were measured as antioxidant determinants. The study results confirm that physico-chemical and biological characteristics of honeys are closely related to their floral sources, and that dark-colored honeys such as oak, chestnut and heather, have a high therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zehra Can
- Giresun University, Şebinkarahisar Technical Sciences Vocational School, Giresun, Turkey
| | - Oktay Yildiz
- Maçka Vocational School, Karadeniz Technical University, Maçka 61750, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Huseyin Sahin
- Giresun University, Espiye Vocational School, Espiye 28600, Giresun, Turkey.
| | - Emine Akyuz Turumtay
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Art, R.T.E. University, 53100 Rize, Turkey
| | - Sibel Silici
- Erciyes University, Agriculture Faculty, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Sevgi Kolayli
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Karadeniz Technical University, 61080 Trabzon, Turkey
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Eltaher S, Mohammed GF, Younes S, Elakhras A. Efficacy of the apitherapy in the treatment of recalcitrant localized plaque psoriasis and evaluation of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) serum level: A double-blind randomized clinical trial. J DERMATOL TREAT 2014; 26:335-9. [PMID: 25424047 DOI: 10.3109/09546634.2014.990411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND No universal consensus about optimal modality for treating the recalcitrant localized plaque psoriasis (RLPP) is available. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the immunological and clinical therapeutic effect of using apitherapy in the treatment of RLPP. METHODS Randomized 50 patients with RLPP received apitherapy (n = 25) and placebo (n = 25) every week. Both treatments were injected into lesions at weekly intervals for a maximum of 12 treatments. Following up was 6 months later. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) level was measured at pre-study and at 12th week. RESULTS A significant difference was found between the therapeutic responses of RLPP to the apitherapy and placebo groups (p<0.001). In the apitherapy group, complete response was achieved in 92% of patients. There was statistically significant decrease in TNF-α in the apitherapy group compared to the placebo group. No recurrence was observed in the apitherapy group. CONCLUSION Apitherapy is effective and a safe treatment for recalcitrant localized plaque psoriasis, when other topical or physical therapies have failed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soha Eltaher
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University , Ismailia , Egypt and
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22
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Seres AB, Ducza E, Báthori M, Hunyadi A, Béni Z, Dékány M, Hajagos-Tóth J, Verli J, Gáspár R. Androgenic effect of honeybee drone milk in castrated rats: roles of methyl palmitate and methyl oleate. J Ethnopharmacol 2014; 153:446-453. [PMID: 24607508 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2014.02.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2013] [Revised: 02/20/2014] [Accepted: 02/26/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Numerous honeybee (Apis mellifera) products have been used in traditional medicine to treat infertility and to increase vitality in both men and women. Drone milk (DM) is a relatively little-known honeybee product with a putative sexual hormone effect. The oestrogenic effect of a fraction of DM has recently been reported in rats. However, no information is available on the androgenic effects of DM. The purpose of the present study was to determine the androgen-like effect of DM in male rats and to identify effective compounds. MATERIALS AND METHODS A modified Hershberger assay was used to investigate the androgenic effect of crude DM, and the plasma level of testosterone was measured. The prostatic mRNA and protein expression of Spot14-like androgen-inducible protein (SLAP) were also examined with real-time PCR and Western blot techniques. GC-MS and NMR spectroscopic investigations were performed to identify the active components gained by bioactivity-guided fractionation. RESULTS The crude DM increased the relative weights of the androgen-dependent organs and the plasma testosterone level in castrated rats and these actions were flutamide-sensitive. DM increased the tissue mRNA and protein level of SLAP, providing further evidence of its androgen-like character. After bioactivity-guided fractionation, two fatty acid esters, methyl palmitate (MP) and methyl oleate (MO), were identified as active compounds. MP alone showed an androgenic effect, whereas MO increased the weight of androgen-sensitive tissues and the plasma testosterone level only in combination. CONCLUSION The experimental data of DM and its active compounds (MO and MP) show androgenic activity confirming the traditional usage of DM. DM or MP or/and MO treatments may project a natural mode for the therapy of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- A B Seres
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Szeged, H-6701, P.O. Box 121, Hungary.
| | - E Ducza
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Szeged, H-6701, P.O. Box 121, Hungary.
| | - M Báthori
- Institute of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Szeged, Eötvös utca 6, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary.
| | - A Hunyadi
- Institute of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Szeged, Eötvös utca 6, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Z Béni
- Spectroscopic Research, Gedeon Richter Plc., Gyömrői út 19-21, H-1103 Budapest, Hungary.
| | - M Dékány
- Spectroscopic Research, Gedeon Richter Plc., Gyömrői út 19-21, H-1103 Budapest, Hungary.
| | - J Hajagos-Tóth
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Szeged, H-6701, P.O. Box 121, Hungary.
| | - J Verli
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Szeged, H-6701, P.O. Box 121, Hungary.
| | - Róbert Gáspár
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Szeged, H-6701, P.O. Box 121, Hungary.
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