Propolis and It’s Effects on Breast Cancer

Propolis & Breast Cancer

Propolis is a resin-like bee product that the bees collect from the leaves, stems and buds of the plants. It’s main function is to provide and maintain the antiseptic environment in the hive. Honey bees use propolis to protect their larvae and themselves against microorganisms (viruses, bacteria and fungus) and they use it as a source of disinfectant in the hive. It has a high antioxidant capacity due to its rich content of flavanoids and phenolic compounds.

Research carried out at Istanbul University in 2012 investigated apoptosis inducing effect of propolis on selected breast cancer cell lines by in vitro tissue cell culture techniques.   The propolis samples were obtained from Brazil, China, Argentina, and Turkey.  The results of the study showed that Anatolian propolis from Turkey was the most strong apoptosis inducer, without any harm to healthy cells.

Reference: Saygili, N., Timirci-Kahraman, Ö., Kisakesen, H.I., Yilmaz, E., Yilmaz-Aydogan, H., Bilgiç, S., Öztürk, T., Seyhan M.F., Eronat, A.P., Tüzüner, M.B. ve Öztürk, O. 2016. Farkli Cografik Orijinli Propolislerin MCF7 Meme Kanseri Hücrelerindeki miRNA Ekspresyon Profiline Etkileri, IV. Multidisipliner Kanser Kongresi, BURSA, TÜRKIYE, 13-16 Aralik 2012, ss.1-