Antiviral Effects of Propolis against SARS-COV 2

Abstract

Propolis, which is produced by honey bees from plant exudates, has long been used in traditional herbal medicine and is widely consumed as an immune system enhancer. The COVID-19 pandemic has renewed interest in propolis products worldwide; fortunately, various aspects of the SARS-CoV-2 infection mechanism are potential targets for propolis components. In preclinical studies, propolis promoted immunoregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including reduction in IL-6, IL-1 beta and TNF-α Propolis has also shown promise as an aid in the treatment of several of the comorbidities that are particularly dangerous in COVID-19 patients, including respiratory diseases, hypertension, diabetes, and cancer. In this mini review, we summarize the potential role of COVID-19 treatment and prevention.