title: Propolis: A Complex Natural Product with a Plethora of Biological Activities That Can Be Explored for Drug Development.
abstract: The health industry has always used natural products as a rich, promising, and alternative source of drugs that are used in the health system. Propolis, a natural resinous product known for centuries, is a complex product obtained by honey bees from substances collected from parts of different plants, buds, and exudates in different geographic areas. Propolis has been attracting scientific attention since it has many biological and pharmacological properties, which are related to its chemical composition. Several in vitro and in vivo studies have been performed to characterize and understand the diverse bioactivities of propolis and its isolated compounds, as well as to evaluate and validate its potential. Yet, there is a lack of information concerning clinical effectiveness. The goal of this review is to discuss the potential of propolis for the development of new drugs by presenting published data concerning the chemical composition and the biological properties of this natural compound from different geographic origins.
authors.affiliation: Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Health Sciences, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal ; ICVS/3B's, PT Government Associate Laboratory, Guimarães, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal.
authors.forename: Ricardo
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Silva-Carvalho
authors.affiliation: Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Health Sciences, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal ; ICVS/3B's, PT Government Associate Laboratory, Guimarães, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal.
authors.forename: Fátima
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Baltazar
authors.affiliation: Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), Biology Department, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal.
authors.forename: Cristina
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Almeida-Aguiar