Propolis allergy. (II). The sensitizing properties of 1,1-dimethylallyl caffeic acid ester.
As shown in the preceding paper, propolis or bee-glue is the cause of an increasing number of allergic reactions in persons using it in external preparations and cosmetics. Propolis and its main contact allergen, 1,1-dimethylallyl caffeic acid ester, designated LB-1, show strong sensitizing properties in patients as well as in guinea pig experiments. 9 patients have been patch tested with this compound, 8 of whom reacted strongly. Chemical separation of different propolis samples and poplar bud extracts reveal that LB-1 is always present. Poplar bud secretion is the bee's major source for propolis and hence the origin of LB-1. A warning is indicated, in agreement with several other authors, that propolis should not be used in topical products because of its strong sensitizing properties.
Hausen
B M
BM
Department of Dermatology, University Hospital, Hamburg, West-Germany.
Wollenweber
E
E
Senff
H
H
Post
B
B
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000818:Animals; D002109:Caffeic Acids / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000302:isolation & purification; D002934:Cinnamates / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003877:Dermatitis, Contact / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D006168:Guinea Pigs; D006801:Humans; D007114:Immunization / Q000379:methods; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010328:Patch Tests; D010936:Plant Extracts / Q000009:adverse effects; D010946:Plants, Medicinal; D011429:Propolis / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000032:analysis; D012116:Resins, Plant / Q000009:adverse effects*
D002109:Caffeic Acids; D002934:Cinnamates; D010936:Plant Extracts; D012116:Resins, Plant; C054126:1,1-dimethylallyl caffeic acid ester; D011429:Propolis