Sunday, September 30, 2018

Chinese Poplar Propolis Has Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Anti-inflammatory effects of Chinese propolis in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated human umbilical vein endothelial cells by suppressing autophagy and MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway

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Inflammopharmacology. 2018 Sep 24

This study aimed to investigate the possible benefits of Chinese poplar propolis (CP) in inhibiting inflammation using vascular endothelial cells (VECs) cultured in a nutrient-rich condition exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS).

Cell proliferation was detected by sulforhodamine B assay and EdU kit. The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and level of mitochondrial membrane potential were determined with fluorescent probe DCHF and JC-1, respectively. Protein expression was examined by immunofluorescence staining and western blotting. The results showed that CP (6.25, 12.5, and 25 μg/mL) significantly reduced LPS-induced cytotoxicity, and when challenged with CP substantially suppressed ROS overproduction and protected mitochondrial membrane potential.

CP treatment significantly inhibited autophagy by inhibiting LC3B distribution and accumulation, and elevating the p62 level in an mTOR-independent manner but mainly by suppressing the translocation of p53 from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. Furthermore, CP treatment markedly reduced protein levels of TLR4 at 12 and 24 h and significantly suppressed nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65 from cytoplasm to nucleus. In addition, CP treatment significantly reduced the phosphorylation of JNK, ERK1/2, and p38 MAPK. Our findings demonstrated that CP protects VECs from LPS-induced oxidative stress and inflammation, which might be associated with depressing autophagy and MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway.

The results provided novel insights for the potential use of nutrient-rich propolis against inflammation.

Saturday, September 29, 2018

Okinawan Propolis May Help Treat Type 2 Diabetes, Alzheimer's Disease, Cancer


Anti-Inflammatory, Anti-Diabetic, and Anti-Alzheimer's Effects of Prenylated Flavonoids from Okinawa Propolis: An Investigation by Experimental and Computational Studies

Molecules. 2018 Sep 27;23(10). pii: E2479\

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Okinawa propolis (OP) and its major ingredients were reported to have anti-cancer effects and lifespan-extending effects on Caenorhabditis elegans through inactivation of the oncogenic kinase, p21-activated kinase 1 (PAK1).

Herein, five prenylated flavonoids from OP, nymphaeol-A (NA), nymphaeol-B (NB), nymphaeol-C (NC), isonymphaeol-B (INB), and 3'-geranyl-naringenin (GN), were evaluated for their anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and anti-Alzheimer's effects using in vitro techniques. They showed significant anti-inflammatory effects through inhibition of albumin denaturation (half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of 0.26⁻1.02 µM), nitrite accumulation (IC50 values of 2.4⁻7.0 µM), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) activity (IC50 values of 11.74⁻24.03 µM). They also strongly suppressed in vitro α-glucosidase enzyme activity with IC50 values of 3.77⁻5.66 µM. However, only INB and NA inhibited acetylcholinesterase significantly compared to the standard drug donepezil, with IC50 values of 7.23 and 7.77 µM, respectively.

Molecular docking results indicated that OP compounds have good binding affinity to the α-glucosidase and acetylcholinesterase proteins, making non-bonded interactions with their active residues and surrounding allosteric residues. In addition, none of the compounds violated Lipinski's rule of five and showed notable toxicity parameters. Density functional theory (DFT)-based global reactivity descriptors demonstrated their high reactive nature along with the kinetic stability.

In conclusion, this combined study suggests that OP components might be beneficial in the treatment of inflammation, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and Alzheimer's disease.

Friday, September 28, 2018

Manuka Honey Can Treat Recurrent Inflammation of Eyelids Caused by Mites (Ocular Demodex)

Comparing the in vitro effects of MGO™ Manuka honey and tea tree oil on ocular Demodex viability

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Cont Lens Anterior Eye. 2018 Jul 6. pii: S1367-0484(18)30776-8

PURPOSE:

To compare the in vitro antiparasitic effects of MGO™ Manuka honey and tea tree oil against ocular Demodex.

METHODS:

Fifty-two viable Demodex mites were acquired from the epilated eyelashes of 9 participants with blepharitis and symptomatic dry eye. Viable mites were randomised to one of five treatment groups: cyclodextrin-complexed and uncomplexed Manuka Honey, 100% and 50% tea tree oil, and no treatment. Following treatment application, mite viability was assessed for 240 min, based on limb and body movement and/or the development of a crenated/translucent appearance. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was then performed.

RESULTS:

The log-rank test demonstrated a significant treatment effect on the survival distribution of Demodex mites (p < 0.001). Bonferroni-corrected post-hoc pairwise analysis showed that all treatments except for uncomplexed honey effected lower survival probabilities than the untreated group (all p < 0.001). Among the four treatments, survival probabilities were lowest with 100% tea tree oil (all p < 0.001), and highest with uncomplexed honey (all p ≤ 0.001). No difference was observed between complexed honey and 50% tea tree oil (p = 0.81).

CONCLUSIONS:

The in vitro efficacy of cyclodextrin-complexed Manuka honey was comparable with 50% tea tree oil, an established treatment for ocular Demodex. The findings support future clinical trials investigating the therapeutic effects of complexed honey in demodectic blepharitis patients.

Thursday, September 27, 2018

Nigeria: Bees’ Venom Can Kill Virus, Heal Wounds Faster (HIV/AIDS, Beekeeping)

Published September 26, 2018

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Dr Mkabwa Manoko of the University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on Wednesday said that bees’ venom could be used to kill deadly viruses in the body.

Manoko, also Head of Department of Crop Sciences and Bee-Keeping Technology at the university, expressed the viewpoint in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on the sidelines of the 6th ApiExpo Africa in Abuja.

He noted that honey also had a medicinal value that could be used for wound management without side effects.

The university lecturer said that more studies and research implementation were required to tap into other potentials of bees.

“Bees produce a lot of products that have industrial use in the pharmaceutical, food and beverage industries.

“Honey has medicinal property; it can be used for wound management, it is cheap, it takes short time to heal, has no side effect like other chemicals.

“Bees produce propolis, venom, pollen and all these are all valuable,” Manoko said.

According to the lecturer, it is clearly established in research that bee venom has the ability to kill HIV, but not the human cells; so, it is something that research can explore to see how it can be used in the cure of HIV/AIDS.

“More research and the application of the researches on bee-keeping are needed. We normally carry out research, but we do not develop them,’’ he said.

Wednesday, September 26, 2018

Propolis Components May Help Treat Breast Cancer (Epithelium Mammary Carcinoma)

Caffeic Acid Versus Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester in the Treatment of Breast Cancer MCF-7 Cells: Migration Rate Inhibition

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Integr Cancer Ther. 2018 Sep 24:1534735418801521

Epithelium mammary carcinoma is a cancer with a high death rate among women. One factor having a significant impact on metastasis is cell migration. The aim of this study was to compare migration rate inhibition of caffeic acid (CA) and its phenethyl ester (CAPE) on MCF-7 breast cancer cells.

Microscopic evaluation was used to determine the morphology of carcinoma cells, before and after 24-hour treatment with CA and CAPE using a dose of 50 µM. The cytotoxic effect was measured by XTT-NR-SRB assay (tetrazolium hydroxide-neutral red-Sulforhodamine B) for 24-hour and 48-hour periods, using CA and CAPE, with doses of 50 and 100 µM. These doses were used to determine cell migration inhibition using a wound closure assay for 0-hour, 8-hour, 16-hour, and 24-hour periods.

Both CA and CAPE treatments displayed cytotoxic activity in a dose- and time-dependent trend. CAPE displayed IC50 values more than twice as low as CA. IC50 values for the XTT assay were as follows: CA was 102.98 µM for 24 hours and 59.12 µM for 48 hours, while CAPE was 56.39 µM for 24 hours and 28.10 µM for 48 hours. For the NR assay: CA was 84.87 µM at 24 hours and 65.05 µM at 48 hours, while CAPE was 69.05 µM at 24 hours and 29.05 µM at 48 hours. For the SRB assay: At 24 hours, CA was 83.47 µM and 53.46 µM at 48 hours, while CAPE was 38.53 µM at 24 hours and 20.15 µM at 48 hours.

Both polyphenols induced migration inhibition, resulting in practically halting the wound closure. CAPE produced better results than CA with the same doses and experiment times, though both CA and CAPE displayed cytotoxic activity against MCF-7 cells, as well as inhibited migration.

Tuesday, September 25, 2018

Aloe Vera, Honey Wound Dressing Promotes Scar-Free Healing

Scar free healing mediated by the release of aloe vera and manuka honey from dextran bionanocomposite wound dressings

Int J Biol Macromol. 2018 Sep 21

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Scar preventive dextran based bionanocomposite dressings containing aloe vera (AV) and manuka honey (MH) were developed as wound care devices. This work was a challenge to fabricate herbal dressing that promotes healing, which at the same time is biocompatible, non-toxic, biodegradable, and cost effective in terms of the simplicity of application in complex chronic wound situations.

With this aim, we synthesized in-situ crosslinked dextran/nanosoy/glycerol/chitosan (DNG/Ch) nanocomposite membranes via solvent casting technique followed by subsequent addition of AV and MH to obtain DNG/Ch/AV and DNG/Ch/MH herbal dressings.

The drug release kinetics of the bionanocomposite dressings indicated an initial burst release of AV and MH, followed by controlled release when examined in-vitro using non-fickian and quasi-fickian model.

Antibacterial studies confirmed >99% antibacterial activity against both Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) and bacterial adherence test demonstrated its efficacy for arresting microbial invasion.

Wound healing analysis conducted in-vivo showed enhanced epithelialization in the terms scar prevention and aesthetics with absolute wound contraction for the mice treated with AV loaded dressings after 14th post wounding day. Histological features displayed ordered deposition of collagen with a thin epidermis layer.

Hence, the present herbal dressing could function without many cytotoxicity and biocompatibility issues.

Monday, September 24, 2018

Propolis May Help Prevent Colitis

Propolis from Different Geographic Origins Decreases Intestinal Inflammation and Bacteroides spp. Populations in a Model of DSS‐Induced Colitis 

Molecular Nutrition & Food Research

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1 Scope

Dietary supplementation with polyphenol‐rich propolis can protect against experimentally induced colitis. We examined whether different polyphenol compositions of Chinese propolis (CP) and Brazilian propolis (BP) influence their ability to protect against dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)‐induced colitis in rats.

2 Methods and results

HPLC‐DAD/Q‐TOF‐MS analysis confirmed that polyphenol compositions of CP and BP were dissimilar. Rats were given CP or BP by gavage (300 mg kg−1 body weight) throughout the study, starting 1 week prior to DSS treatment for 1 week followed by 3 d without DSS. CP and BP significantly reduced the colitis disease activity index relative to controls not receiving propolis, prevented significant DSS‐induced colonic tissue damage, and increased resistance to DSS‐induced colonic oxidative stress as shown by reduced malonaldehyde levels and increased T‐AOC levels. CP and BP significantly reduced DSS‐induced colonic apoptosis. Colonic inflammatory markers IL‐1β, IL‐6, and MCP‐1 were suppressed by CP and BP, whereas only BP‐induced expression of TGF‐β. CP, not BP, increased the diversity and richness of gut microbiota populations. Both forms of propolis significantly reduced populations of Bacteroides spp.

3 Conclusions

Despite the dissimilar polyphenol compositions of CP and BP, their ability to protect against DSS‐induced colitis is similar. Nevertheless, some different physiological impacts were observed.

Sunday, September 23, 2018

Propolis Helps Treat Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar), Dyslipidemia (High Cholesterol), Oxidative Stress, and Type-2 Diabetes

Beneficial Effects of Poplar Buds on Hyperglycemia, Dyslipidemia, Oxidative Stress, and Inflammation in Streptozotocin-Induced Type-2 Diabetes

Journal of Immunology Research
Volume 2018, Article ID 7245956, 10 pages

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The effects of propolis on blood glucose regulation and the alleviation of various complications caused by diabetes have been widely studied. The main source of propolis in the northern temperate zone is poplar buds. However, there is limited research on the antidiabetic activity of poplar buds.

In order to evaluate the effect of poplar buds on type-2 diabetes, crude extract and 50% fraction of poplar buds were used to feed streptozotocin-induced type-2 diabetic mice. The results showed that 50% fraction could increase insulin sensitivity and reduce insulin resistance, as well as decrease the levels of fasting blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin, and glycosylated serum proteins in diabetic mice. Compared with the model control group, the 50% fraction-treated group showed significant decreases of malondialdehyde (MDA) and increases of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in serum and liver homogenate. Moreover, 50% fraction could significantly decrease total cholesterol (TC), alleviate abnormal lipid metabolism, and enhance antioxidant capacity in the serum. For inflammatory factors, feeding of 50% fraction could also reduce the levels of interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP-1), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in liver homogenate.

Taken together, our results suggest that crude extract and 50% fraction of poplar buds, particularly the latter, can decrease blood glucose levels and insulin resistance, and 50% fraction can significantly relieve dyslipidemia, oxidative stress, and inflammation caused by type-2 diabetes.

Saturday, September 22, 2018

Beeswax By-Products Protect Cells That Promote Skin Healing

Beeswax by-Products Efficiently Counteract the Oxidative Damage Induced by an Oxidant Agent in Human Dermal Fibroblasts

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Int J Mol Sci. 2018 Sep 19;19(9). pii: E2842

The antioxidant capacity and the phytochemical composition of two by-products from beeswax recycling processes were recently investigated.

The aim of the present work was to evaluate the efficacy of one of these by-products, MUD1, against the oxidative stress induced by 2,2'-azobis(2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride (AAPH) in human dermal fibroblast (HDF) cells. After a preliminary viability assay, the protective effect of MUD1 was investigated through the measurement of apoptosis level, the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitrite (NO₂-) production, the level of protein and lipid biomarkers (carbonyl groups, total glutathione and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substance) of oxidative damage, and the measurement of antioxidant enzymes activities (glutatione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, glutathione transferase, superoxide dismutase and catalase).

The obtained results showed that MUD1 exerted protective effects on HDF, increasing cell viability and counteracted the oxidative stress promoted by AAPH-treatment, and improved mitochondria functionality and wound healing capacities.

This work shows the antioxidant effects exerted by beeswax by-products, demonstrating for the first time their potential against oxidative stress in human dermal fibroblast cells; however, further research will be necessary to evaluate their potentiality for human health by more deeply in vitro and in vivo studies.

Friday, September 21, 2018

Honey Boosts Acyclovir in Treating Herpes Simplex Gingivostomatitis (HSGS)

Honey can help in herpes simplex gingivostomatitis in children: Prospective randomized double blind placebo controlled clinical trial

Am J Otolaryngol. 2018 Sep 12. pii: S0196-0709(18)30581-7

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PURPOSE:

Herpes simplex gingivostomatitis (HSGS) in children is a common painful infectious disease. This study aims to examine the combined efficacy of honey with acyclovir suspension compared to acyclovir alone for treating HSGS in young children.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

This Randomized double blind placebo controlled study was conducted from June 2015 to September 2017 in a tertiary referral hospital. One hundred children aged 2-8 years with HSGS were randomly classified into 2 groups; study group: treated with honey plus oral acyclovir and control group: treated with oral acyclovir alone. Severity of oral lesions, Fever, eating and drinking ability, pain scores and need for analgesics were compared between 2 groups on day 3, 5 and 7 after starting treatment.

RESULTS:

Children receiving honey plus acyclovir (i.e. study group) had significantly earlier disappearance of herpetic oral lesions; median 3 days vs. 6 days in control group (P = 0.022), drooling; 2 days vs. 4 days (P = 0.030) and eating difficulty; 3 days vs. 8 days (P = 0.001). Study group also had significantly lower pain scores, better eating and drinking ability and significantly less need for analgesics at 3 time-points of assessment. Fever disappeared in both groups with no statistically significant difference.

CONCLUSIONS:

The combined use of honey with oral acyclovir can produce favorable outcome than acyclovir alone in children with Primary herpetic gingivostomatitis.

Thursday, September 20, 2018

Propolis Helps Treat Gingivitis

Propolis as an adjuvant to non-surgical periodontal treatment: a clinical study with salivary anti-oxidant capacity assessment

Minerva Stomatol. 2018 Oct;67(5):183-188

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BACKGROUND:

Periodontal diseases are characteristic for the excessive release of oxidant free-radicals by the host. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of an anti-oxidant-based formula containing propolis and herbs as an adjunctive therapy to standard non-surgical periodontal treatment (NSPT) when compared to the domiciliary use of chlorhexidine-based formulae.

METHODS:

Forty patients were enrolled in the present study and randomly allocated to either a control (NSPT plus chlorhexidine gel formula) group or a test (NSPT plus anti-oxidant gel formula) group. Clinical parameters for the assessment of the periodontal status were evaluated at baseline, one month, and three months after NSPT, and the salivary antioxidant capacity as well.

RESULTS:

There were no significant clinical differences between the two groups (P > 0.05). However, patients within the test group (propolis) achieved better results in terms of oxidative stress reduction (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS:

In the present study, propolis was comparable to chlorhexidine in the clinical management of gingivitis. Further studies are needed to investigate its potential as a redox modulator for the oral microbiome.

Wednesday, September 19, 2018

Everything You Need to Know About Health Benefits of Manuka Honey

DailyAddaa

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Why Manuka honey?

Manuka honey is the natural ointment for healing wounds of all kinds. It often addressed as a germ fighter in the age of antibiotics. This lesser used traditional remedy that also benefits in acne and sinus issues.

Manuka honey is produced in New Zealand by bees that pollinate the native manuka bush. When bees pollinate from scrub plant, their honey is more potent because of higher concentration of methylglyoxal (MGO).

What are the advantages of manuka honey?

Raw honey is associated with health benefits whereas manuka is specialised in antibacterial and bacterial resistant.

1. Accountable for treating both acute and chronic diseases.
2. Helps in healing scrapes
3. Promotes oral health
4. Soothes a soar throat
5. Prevention from gastric ulcers
6. Improves digestion system
7. Treats acne
8. Clearing infections
9. Boosting the immune system
10. Provides energy

Tuesday, September 18, 2018

Bee Venom Helps Treat Rheumatoid Arthritis


Bee Venom and Hesperidin Effectively Mitigate Complete Freund's Adjuvant-Induced Arthritis Via Immunomodulation and Enhancement of Antioxidant Defense System

Arch Rheumatol. 2017 Nov 2;33(2):198-212

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Objectives:

This study aims to assess the antirheumatic activity of bee venom (BV) and/or hesperidin as natural products in complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)-induced arthritis in male Wistar rats.

Material and methods:

Rheumatoid arthritis was induced in 30 male Wistar rats (weight 130 g to 150 g; age 10 to 12 weeks) by subcutaneous injection of CFA into the right hind paw of the rats. The rats were divided into five groups of six rats in each and administered the following regimens for 21 days: Normal group (given the equivalent volume of saline and carboxymethylcellulose), arthritic group (given the equivalent volume of saline and carboxymethylcellulose), arthritic group treated with BV (treated with BV along with carboxymethylcellulose), arthritic group treated with hesperidin (treated with hesperidin along with saline), and arthritic group treated with BV and hesperidin (treated with BV and hesperidin concurrently).

Results:

Bee venom and/or hesperidin successfully reversed the CFA-arthritis-induced increases in right hind leg paw swelling, leukocytes' count, liver lipid peroxidation, serum inflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL-2 and IL-12) levels and spleen tumor necrosis factor-alpha messenger ribonucleic acid expression. Moreover, the CFA-induced down-regulation in serum IL-10 level and spleen IL-4 messenger ribonucleic acid expression as well as the deterioration in the antioxidant defense system were significantly improved as a result of BV and hesperidin administration. Both treatments also markedly counteracted the severe inflammatory changes and leukocytic infiltration in the periarticular tissue of the ankle joints. In addition, BV and hesperidin obviously amended the lymphoid hyperplasia in white pulps of spleen as well as the widening of the medulla and mononuclear cell infiltration found in thymus.

Conclusion:

Bee venom and hesperidin administration produced their ameliorative effects on rheumatoid arthritis via their antioxidant, antiinflammatory and immunomodulatory potentials. BV plus hesperidin particularly seemed to be the most potent in improving rheumatoid arthritis in Wistar rats.

Monday, September 17, 2018

Propolis May Help Treat High Cholesterol

Lipid-lowering effect of propolis in mice with Triton-WR1339-induced hyperlipidemia and its mechanism for regulating lipid metabolism [Article in Chinese]

Nan Fang Yi Ke Da Xue Xue Bao. 2018 Jul 30;38(8):1020-1024

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OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the therapeutic effect of propolis against Triton-WR1339-induced hyperlipidemia in mice and explore the underlying mechanism.

METHODS:

C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into 7 groups (n=10), including the control group, hyperlipidemia model group, fenofibrate (30 mg/kg) treatment group, and 4 treatment groups treated with low- (30 mg/kg) or high-dose (60 mg/kg) propolis HB01 or HB02. In all but the control group, acute hyperlipidemia models were established by intramuscular injection of Triton WR-1339, and corresponding treatments were administered via gastric lavage for 7 days. After the treatments, blood samples were collected for testing the levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), highdensity lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), alanine aminotransferase (GPT), and aspartate aminotransferase (GOT); Western blotting was used to detect the expressions of the proteins involved in lipid metabolism in the liver tissues including ABCA1, ABCG8, LDLR, and SR-B1.

RESULTS:

Compared with the normal control group, the mice with Triton-WR1339-induced hyperlipidemia showed significantly increased levels of TC, TG, LDL, MDA, GPT, and GOT and lowered HDL-C levels and SOD activity (P < 0.05). Treatments with fenofibrate and the 2 propolis at either low or high dose significantly reversed Triton-WR1339-induced changes in blood lipids (P < 0.05), and the effects of propolis were more potent. Triton-WR1339 injection also significantly decreased the expressions levels of ABCA1, ABCG8, LDLR, and SR-B1 in the liver (P < 0.05), and these changes were obviously reversed by treatments with fenofibrate and propolis (P < 0.05), especially by the latter.

CONCLUSIONS:

The lipid-lowering effects of propolis are mediated by improving lipid metabolism and regulating the expressions of lipid transport proteins in the liver tissue.

Sunday, September 16, 2018

Probiotic Honey Has Beneficial Effects on Insulin Metabolism (Diabetes, Diabetic Nephropathy), Total-/HDL-Cholesterol, Serum Hs-CRP, And Plasma MDA Levels

The Effects of Probiotic Honey Consumption on Metabolic Status in Patients with Diabetic Nephropathy: a Randomized, Double-Blind, Controlled Trial.

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Probiotics Antimicrob Proteins. 2018 Sep 14

To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first evaluating the effects of probiotic honey intake on glycemic control, lipid profiles, biomarkers of inflammation, and oxidative stress in patients with diabetic nephropathy (DN).

This investigation was conducted to evaluate the effects of probiotic honey intake on metabolic status in patients with DN. This randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical trial was performed among 60 patients with DN.

Patients were randomly allocated into two groups to receive either 25 g/day probiotic honey containing a viable and heat-resistant probiotic Bacillus coagulans T11 (IBRC-M10791) (108 CFU/g) or 25 g/day control honey (n = 30 each group) for 12 weeks. Fasting blood samples were taken at baseline and 12 weeks after supplementation to quantify glycemic status, lipid concentrations, biomarkers of inflammation, and oxidative stress.

After 12 weeks of intervention, patients who received probiotic honey compared with the control honey had significantly decreased serum insulin levels (- 1.2 ± 1.8 vs. - 0.1 ± 1.3 μIU/mL, P = 0.004) and homeostasis model of assessment-estimated insulin resistance (- 0.5 ± 0.6 vs. 0.003 ± 0.4, P = 0.002) and significantly improved quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (+ 0.005 ± 0.009 vs. - 0.0007 ± 0.005, P = 0.004).

Additionally, compared with the control honey, probiotic honey intake has resulted in a significant reduction in total-/HDL-cholesterol (- 0.2 ± 0.5 vs. + 0.1 ± 0.1, P = 0.04). Probiotic honey intake significantly reduced serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (- 1.9 ± 2.4 vs. - 0.2 ± 2.7 mg/L, P = 0.01) and plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) levels (- 0.1 ± 0.6 vs. + 0.6 ± 1.0 μmol/L, P = 0.002) compared with the control honey. Probiotic honey intake had no significant effects on other metabolic profiles compared with the control honey.

Overall, findings from the current study demonstrated that probiotic honey consumption for 12 weeks among DN patients had beneficial effects on insulin metabolism, total-/HDL-cholesterol, serum hs-CRP, and plasma MDA levels, but did not affect other metabolic profiles.

Friday, September 14, 2018

Royal Jelly, Brazilian Green Propolis May Help Treat Allergic Rhinitis (Allergies, Itchy, Watering Eyes, Sneezing)

Effect of Royal Jelly and Brazilian Green Propolis on the Signaling for Histamine H1 Receptor and Interleukin-9 Gene Expressions Responsible for the Pathogenesis of the Allergic Rhinitis

Biol Pharm Bull. 2018;41(9):1440-1447

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The significant correlation between nasal symptom scores and level of histamine H1 receptor (H1R) mRNA in nasal mucosa was observed in patients with pollinosis, suggesting that H1R gene is an allergic disease sensitive gene. We demonstrated that H1R and interleukin (IL)-9 gene are the allergic rhinitis (AR)-sensitive genes and protein kinase Cδ (PKCδ) signaling and nuclear factor of activated T-cells (NFAT) signaling are involved in their expressions, respectively. Honey bee products have been used to treat allergic diseases. However, their pathological mechanism remains to be elucidated. In the present study, we investigated the mechanism of the anti-allergic effect of royal jelly (RJ) and Brazilian green propolis (BGPP). Treatment with RJ and BGPP decreased in the number of sneezing on toluene 2,4-diissocyanate (TDI)-stimulated rats. The remarkable suppression of H1R mRNA in nasal mucosa was observed. RJ and BGPP also suppressed the expression of IL-9 gene. RJ and BGPP suppressed phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate-induced Tyr311 phosphorylation of PKCδ in HeLa cells. In RBL-2H3 cells, RJ and BGPP also suppressed NFAT-mediated IL-9 gene expression. These results suggest that RJ and BGPP improve allergic symptoms by suppressing PKCδ and NFAT signaling pathways, two important signal pathways for the AR pathogenesis, and suggest that RJ and BGPP could be good therapeutics against AR.

Thursday, September 13, 2018

Honey Mouthwash Helps Treat Mucositis Caused by Acute Myeloid Leukemia

The effect of an oral care protocol and honey mouthwash on mucositis in acute myeloid leukemia patients undergoing chemotherapy: a single-blind clinical trial

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Clin Oral Investig. 2018 Sep 11

OBJECTIVES:

The purpose of the study is to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of honey mouthwash and an oral care protocol on mucositis and weight loss in patients with acute myeloid leukemia receiving chemotherapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

In this single-blind clinical trial, 53 acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients receiving chemotherapy were randomly assigned into three groups: honey mouthwash (n = 17), oral care (n = 17), and control (n = 19). The severity of mucositis and weights was examined blindly at the baseline and 4-week follow-up.

RESULTS:

The prevalence of grades of mucositis in the study groups was significant at the end of the third (p = 0.002) and fourth (p < 0.001) weeks. The mucositis severity decreased at the end of the third and fourth weeks in the honey mouthwash group (p < 0.05), whereas it increased in the control group (p < 0.001). The difference in the weight was significant between the honey mouthwash and the control groups (p < 0.05, MD = 1.95) at the end of the third week, and between the honey mouthwash group with the control (p < 0.01, MD = 2.92) and oral care groups (p < 0.05, MD = 1.95) at the end of the fourth week.

CONCLUSIONS:

Honey mouthwash is effective in preventing and reducing the severity of mucositis, and weight loss and can be recommended for patients undergoing chemotherapy.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE:

The results of this study suggest that honey mouthwash can reduce the incidence and severity of mucositis in patients, reduce or eliminate the possibility of weight loss in them, as well as encourage some weight gain. Compared to routine oral care, honey mouthwash is also easier to use and handle.

Wednesday, September 12, 2018

Propolis May Help Treat Colitis


Propolis from Different Geographic Origins Decreases Intestinal Inflammation and Bacteroides spp. Populations in a Model of DSS‐Induced Colitis 

Molecular Nutrition, Volume62, Issue17
September 2018

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1 Scope

Dietary supplementation with polyphenol‐rich propolis can protect against experimentally induced colitis. We examined whether different polyphenol compositions of Chinese propolis (CP) and Brazilian propolis (BP) influence their ability to protect against dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)‐induced colitis in rats.

2 Methods and results

HPLC‐DAD/Q‐TOF‐MS analysis confirmed that polyphenol compositions of CP and BP were dissimilar. Rats were given CP or BP by gavage (300 mg kg−1 body weight) throughout the study, starting 1 week prior to DSS treatment for 1 week followed by 3 d without DSS. CP and BP significantly reduced the colitis disease activity index relative to controls not receiving propolis, prevented significant DSS‐induced colonic tissue damage, and increased resistance to DSS‐induced colonic oxidative stress as shown by reduced malonaldehyde levels and increased T‐AOC levels. CP and BP significantly reduced DSS‐induced colonic apoptosis. Colonic inflammatory markers IL‐1β, IL‐6, and MCP‐1 were suppressed by CP and BP, whereas only BP‐induced expression of TGF‐β. CP, not BP, increased the diversity and richness of gut microbiota populations. Both forms of propolis significantly reduced populations of Bacteroides spp.

3 Conclusions

Despite the dissimilar polyphenol compositions of CP and BP, their ability to protect against DSS‐induced colitis is similar. Nevertheless, some different physiological impacts were observed.

Tuesday, September 11, 2018

Bee Venom May Help Treat Cancer, Tuberculosis (TB), HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)

Venom as therapeutic weapon to combat dreadful diseases of 21st century: A systematic review on cancer, TB, and HIV/AIDS

Microb Pathog. 2018 Sep 6. pii: S0882-4010(18)31390-1

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Cancer and infectious diseases are the preeminent causes of human morbidities and mortalities worldwide. At present, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, and gene therapy are considered as predominant options in order to treat cancer. But these therapies provide inadequate consequences by affecting both the normal and tumor cells. On the other hand, tuberculosis (TB), and HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infections are significant threats, causing over a million mortalities each year.

The extensive applications of antibiotics have caused the microbes to acquire resistance to the existing antibiotics. With the emerging dilemma of drug resistant microbes, it has become imperative to identify novel therapeutic agents from natural sources as emphatic alternative approach. Over the past few decades, venoms derived from several reptiles, amphibians, and arthropods including snakes, scorpions, frogs, spiders, honey bees, wasps, beetles, caterpillars, ants, centipedes, sponges etc. have been identified as efficient therapeutics. Venoms constitute plethora of bioactive components, particularly peptides, enzymes, and other chemical entities, which exhibit a large array of anticancer and anti-pathogenic activities.

This review highlights the panorama of bioactive components of animal venoms divulging the anticancer, anti-tubercular, and anti-HIV activities. In a nutshell, this context discloses the decisive role of animal venoms as alternative natural resources to combat these deadly diseases of 21st century, and propounding the plausible development of new therapeutic drugs in the present era.

Monday, September 10, 2018

Analysis of Manuka Honey’s Antioxidant, Antimicrobial and Wound Healing Capacities

Protective effects of Manuka honey on LPS-treated RAW 264.7 macrophages. Part 1: Enhancement of cellular viability, regulation of cellular apoptosis and improvement of mitochondrial functionality

Food Chem Toxicol. 2018 Sep 3;121:203-213

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Manuka honey (MH) is a monofloral honey from Australia and New Zealand, well-known for its healthy properties, such as antioxidant, antimicrobial and wound healing capacities.

The aim of this work was to assess the phenolic composition and the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of MH, as well as its effects on cellular viability, proliferation, apoptosis and metabolism in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated RAW 264.7 macrophages, highlighting the molecular mechanisms involved.

Up to 18 compounds were identified in MH, with gallic acid and quercetin as the major ones; MH showed also remarkable TAC. In addition, MH was able to enhance cellular viability, decrease apoptosis, promote wound healing and attenuate inflammation in a dose-dependent manner, by reducing the expression of caspase 3, p-p38 and p-Erk1/2 proteins, in macrophages stressed with LPS. In addition, it improved mitochondrial respiration and glycolytic activities, stimulating the expression of p-AMPK, SIRT1 and PGC1α, counteracting in this way the deleterious effects of LPS treatment.

In conclusion, one of the possible mechanisms by which MH exerts its beneficial effects could be to its capacity to improve cellular viability, promote proliferation and enhance energetic metabolism, by modulating the expression of several proteins involved in apoptosis, inflammation, metabolism and mitochondrial biogenesis.

Saturday, September 08, 2018

Bee Venom May Help Treat Eczema

EurekAlert

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Bee venom and its major component, melittin, may be effective treatments for atopic dermatitis (or eczema), according to a British Journal of Pharmacology study.

Through studies conducted in mice and in human cells, investigators found that bee venom and melittin suppress inflammation through various mechanisms on immune cells and inflammatory molecules.

"This study demonstrated that bee venom and melittin have immunomodulatory activity, and such activity was associated with the regulation of T helper cell differentiation, thereby ameliorating the inflammatory skin diseases caused by atopic dermatitis," the authors wrote.

Friday, September 07, 2018

Antiviral Activity of Mexican Propolis Against Canine Distemper Virus (Pets)

Comparison between In Vitro Antiviral Effect of Mexican Propolis and Three Commercial Flavonoids against Canine Distemper Virus

Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2018 Aug 6;2018:7092416

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Propolis is a resin that honey bees (Apis mellifera) produce by mixing wax, exudates collected from tree shoots, pollen, and enzymes. It has been used for its biological properties against pathogenic microorganisms including those of viral origin.

In the present study, we demonstrate the antiviral effect of Mexican propolis, as well as of the three commercial flavonoids (quercetin, naringenin, and pinocembrin) present in its composition, in cell cultures infected with Canine Distemper Virus.

The treatments were carried out with propolis, flavonoids individually, and a mixture of the three flavonoids at three different times. Antiviral activity was evaluated by the inhibition of the relative expression of the virus nucleoprotein gene (Real-Time qPCR) and by the determination of cellular viability (MTT assay). Propolis applied before infection decreased viral expression (0.72 versus 1.0, 1.65, and 1.75 relative expressions) and correlated with increased cell viability (0.314 versus 0.215, 0.259, and 0.237 absorbance units (AU)).

The administration of a flavonoid mixture containing the three commercial flavonoids before infection induces a slight decrease in viral expression (0.93 versus 1, 1.42, and 1.82 relative expressions); however, it does not improve cellular viability (0.255 versus 0.247, 0.282, and 0.245 AU). Quercetin administrated at the same time of infection decreases viral expression (0.90 versus 1.0, 3.25, and 1.02 relative expressions) and improves cellular viability (0.294 versus 0.240, 0.250, and 0.245 AU). Pinocembrin and naringenin individually did not show any antiviral activity at the administration times evaluated in this study.

The present work is the first in vitro study of the effect of propolis in Canine Distemper Virus and demonstrated the antiviral activity of Mexican propolis, in addition to the synergy that exists between the three flavonoids on cell viability and the expression of the nucleoprotein virus gene.

Thursday, September 06, 2018

Brazilian Green Propolis Components Show Anti-Cancer Activity

Anticancer activity of the supercritical extract of Brazilian green propolis and its active component, artepillin C: Bioinformatics and experimental analyses of its mechanisms of action

Int J Oncol. 2018 Mar;52(3):925-932

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Propolis, a resinous substance collected by honeybees by mixing their saliva with plant sources, including tree bark and leaves and then mixed with secreted beeswax, possesses a variety of bioactivities.

Whereas caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) has been recognized as a major bioactive ingredient in New Zealand propolis, Brazilian green propolis, on the other hand, possesses artepillin C (ARC).

In this study, we report that, similar to CAPE, ARC docks into and abrogates mortalin-p53 complexes, causing the activation of p53 and the growth arrest of cancer cells. Cell viability assays using ARC and green propolis-supercritical extract (GPSE) revealed higher cytotoxicity in the latter, supported by nuclear translocation and the activation of p53.

Furthermore, in vivo tumor suppression assays using nude mice, we found that GPSE and its conjugate with γ cyclodextrin (γCD) possessed more potent anticancer activity than purified ARC. GPSE‑γCD may thus be recommended as a natural, effective and economic anticancer amalgam.

Wednesday, September 05, 2018

Propolis Component May Help Treat Colitis, Inflammatory Bowel Diseases

Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) reverses fibrosis caused by chronic colon inflammation in murine model of colitis

Pathol Res Pract. 2018 Aug 24. pii: S0344-0338(18)30831-8

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Fibrosis is known to be the hallmarks of chronic inflammation of the bowel. Epithelial damage due to inflammation compromises the barrier function of the gastrointestinal tract. This barrier dysfunction leads to further spread of inflammation resulting in a chronic state of inflammation. This chronic inflammation leads to development of fibrosis, which has very limited therapeutic options and usually requires surgical removal of the affected tissue.

Our previous work has shown that Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) is a naturally occurring anti-inflammatory agent, found in propolis, has been found to be protective in experimental colitis via enhancement of epithelial barrier function. However, the impact of CAPE on resolution of fibrosis in the long-term is unknown. The aim of this follow up study was to investigate the effect of CAPE on colon fibrosis in a chronic model of Dextran sulphate sodium induced colitis in mice. Dextran sulphate sodium (DSS) 2.5% w/v was administered in drinking water to induce colitis in C57/BL6 mice for 5 days on the 6th day DSS was stopped and test group mice were treated with intraperitoneal administration of CAPE (30 mg kg-1 day-1) for a further 7 days. Disease activity index (DAI) score, colon length and tissue histology and level of tissue fibrosis was observed.

CAPE-treated mice had significantly lower levels of DAI, tissue inflammation scores and fibrosis as compared with control group. Our results show that CAPE is effective in resolving colon fibrosis in chronic inflammation.

Thus, we can conclude CAPE could be a potential therapeutic agent for further clinical investigations for treatment of fibrosis in inflammatory bowel diseases in humans.

Tuesday, September 04, 2018

Irish Heather Honey Has High Phenolic Content (Antioxidant, Antibacterial, Antidiabetic Anti-Inflammatory)


Irish honey among world’s healthiest, study finds

The Irish Times

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Irish heather honey contains health benefits comparable with the world renowned manuka honey from New Zealand, according to a study from researchers at Dublin City University and Trinity College Dublin.

Honey provides many benefits for overall health, with antioxidant, antibacterial, antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Manuka honey is produced in New Zealand by bees that pollinate the native manuka bush. Advocates say it has particularly strong properties that are useful for treating wound infections and actually prevents damage to cell tissue.

Multifloral honeys produced by urban bees had a greater level of antioxidant phenolic compounds than their rural counterparts
The Irish research found a similar overall presence of powerful antioxidants called phenolic compounds in Irish heather honey as has been found in manuka honey.

Researchers also found that multifloral honeys produced by urban bees had a greater level of antioxidant phenolic compounds than their rural counterparts – a finding possibly due to the flower diversity and abundance surrounding hives.

Monday, September 03, 2018

Propolis Used in Voice Care Throat Lozenges

Boing Boing

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Along with various unidentified herbs (the ingredients only mention "herb extract" along with orange, apple, and olive leaf essence), propolis seems to be the special sauce of Voice Care Candy. Propolis, if you don’t know, is sometimes called bee glue, think bee spit mixed with beeswax. It is used by bees to seal small gaps in the hive.

...All of these examples makes me think that maybe, yes, Voice Care Candy would be good to coat, soothe, and perhaps freshen my throat.

Sunday, September 02, 2018

Bee Venom Component May Have Anti-Tumor Applications (Cancer)

Acid-activated melittin for targeted and safe antitumor therapy

Bioconjug Chem. 2018 Aug 27

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Melittin (MLT), as a natural active biomolecule, can penetrate the tumor cell membrane to play a role in cancer treatment, will attract more attention in the future development of anti-tumor drugs. The main com-ponent of natural bee venom MLT was modified by introducing pH-sensitive amide bond between the 2,3-dimethyl maleimide (DMMA) and the lysine (Lys) of MLT (MLT-DMMA). MLT and its corresponding modified peptide MLT-DMMA were used to anti-tumor and biocompatibility validation.

The biomaterial characteristics were tested by MALDI-TOF MS, 1H NMR, IUPAC and HPLC, cell viability, hemolytic and animal experiment safety evaluation. Compared with the primary melittin, the modified peptide showed decreased surface charge and low cytotoxicity in physiological conditions. Moreover, cell assays confirmed the acid-activated conversion of amide bond resulting in adequately safe during its delivery and timely antitumor activity in tumor lesions.

Thus, MLT-DMMA provided a feasible platform to improve the targeted and safe antitumor applications.

Saturday, September 01, 2018

Ugandan Propolis Boosts Memory in Dose Dependent Manner (Alzheimer's Disease)

Combined Donepezil and Ethanolic Extract of Propolis Improved Memory Better Than Donepezil and Propolis Monotherapy in Wild Type Drosophila melanogaster

Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2018 Aug 12;2018:3717328

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Background:

Donepezil is the most common drug used in the treatment of disorders associated with memory loss, especially that in Alzheimer's disease. Healthy individuals however have continued to use it as a memory enhancer. This study was aimed at evaluating the combined therapy of donepezil and propolis on cognition in Drosophila melanogaster. Method. Drosophila melanogaster flies were divided into five groups and fed with the different treatment doses of ethanolic extract of propolis and donepezil as follows: normal food, propolis 250 mg/mL, propolis 50 mg/mL, donepezil 0.001M, and donepezil 0.001M/propolis 50 mg/mL added to their food. The flies were fed from larval stage for 30 days. The memory and learning tests were conducted after every 10 days to assess improvement with time.

Results:

The results obtained showed that the combination of propolis with donepezil caused a remarkable improvement in both the short- and long-term memory. In addition, there was a dose dependent improvement with the administration of propolis.

Conclusion:

Propolis extract obtained from different parts of Uganda expressed cognitive improvement when coadministered with donepezil in wild type Drosophila melanogaster.