Effectiveness of Propolis on Oral Health: A Meta-Analysis

J Nurs Res. 2014 Dec;22(4):221-9

BACKGROUND:

The use of propolis mouth rinse or gel as a supplementary intervention has increased during the last decade in Taiwan. However, the effect of propolis on oral health is not well understood.

PURPOSE:

The purpose of this meta-analysis was to present the best available evidence regarding the effects of propolis use on oral health, including oral infection, dental plaque, and stomatitis.

METHODS:

Researchers searched seven electronic databases for relevant articles published between 1969 and 2012. Data were collected using inclusion and exclusion criteria. The Joanna Briggs Institute Meta Analysis of Statistics Assessment and Review Instrument was used to evaluate the quality of the identified articles.

RESULTS:

Eight trials published from 1997 to 2011 with 194 participants had extractable data. The result of the meta-analysis indicated that, although propolis had an effect on reducing dental plaque, this effect was not statistically significant. The results were not statistically significant for oral infection or stomatitis.

CONCLUSIONS/IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE:

Although there are a number of promising indications, in view of the limited number and quality of studies and the variation in results among studies, this review highlights the need for additional well-designed trials to draw conclusions that are more robust.