Science

Studies point to propolis as promising in the treatment of patients with Covid-19

28/10/2020

Used by bees as a defense mechanism, propolis also brings numerous benefits to human health. Therefore, in the face of the pandemic we are facing, some Brazilian researchers are trying to establish a relationship between propolis and Covid-19 to understand whether resin can be used as a way to combat the disease.

Research is still in progress and, therefore, we cannot speak of conclusive results. Despite this, the development points to a positive end, as they show that propolis can be used in the treatment of the most serious cases of the disease. 

To understand more about it, keep reading our text. With it, we explain about the features of propolis and present an overview of the research that is being done at the moment.

The power of propolis

Propolis is a resin made by bees and used to seal the openings of the hive. Thus, it prevents the entry of invasive species and also prevents contamination by microorganisms. Therefore, it works as a barrier and has asepsis power.

Research shows that it still has several possibilities of pharmacological use. For humans, it serves as an anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial. In addition, researchers have already proven that it works as a strengthener of the immune system.

In the face of all this power, it was inevitable to investigate what effects it can have on Covid-19. Therefore, below we present some researches that are in progress on the subject.

Propolis and covid-19

The main Brazilian study on propolis and covid-19 is being led by physician Marcelo Augusto Duarte Silveira, graduated from Uncisal, from Alagoas. With a specialization in nephrology, the doctor has already carried out research with propolis in his doctorate, carried out at the University of São Paulo (USP). During the period, he investigated the effects of resin in the treatment of chronic kidney disease.

Now, Silveira coordinates a pesquisa at Hospital São Rafael, in Salvador, and intends to observe the benefits of própolis verde in the treatment of inflammation resulting from the new coronavirus. The main hypothesis is that the substance can slow down pulmonary fibrosis, a recurrent symptom in patients with the disease.

In this sense, it is worth noting that several studies have already confirmed the anti-inflammatory properties of the substance. Therefore, it is so used in the treatment of sore throats and is even indicated for joint inflammation.

Another study worth mentioning is led by Professor José Maurício Sforcin, from the State University of São Paulo (Unesp). Since the 1990s, the researcher and his advisees have been investigating the effects of propolis on the immune system. Among the results obtained by Sforcin and his team, we see that the presence of caffeic acid strengthens the defense of organisms, as it helps to fight the replication of viruses.

As you have just seen, we cannot treat propolis as a miracle cure for the coronavirus pandemic. However, there are positive signs that show us that it can be an ally in coping, relieving symptoms and strengthening the immune system.

And now that you've discovered what the research says about propolis and covid-19, how about staying on top of more news about bee products? Sign up for our newsletter!