Propolis Contra Pharmacological Interventions in Bees

Abstract

In addition to wax, propolis is a mixture of resins, terpenes, and etheric and aromatic oils. This composition supports its very strong biochemical activity that affects bee health. Bee colonies are externally exposed to the activity of other different pharmacologically active substances and toxic agents used in beekeeping procedures, veterinary interventions, and the environment. Even if free form common diseases, they may suffer from parasites or toxins. In any such case the abundance and variety of honeyflow, besides proper therapy, is crucial for the maintenance of bee health. Propolis itself cannot be considered as food but can be considered as micro-nutrients for bees. This is due to the fact that some of its compounds may penetrate different bee products, and this way be consumed by bees and their larvae, while stored in the hive. This perspective shows propolis as natural agent reducing the toxicity of pyrethroid acaricides, stimulating production of detoxification enzymes, enhancing the action of antibiotics, and increasing expression of genes that encode proteins responsible for detoxication. The aim of this review is to summarize current data on the possible impact on veterinary public health of the introduction into propolis of residues of pharmacological agents approved in the EU for use in the treatment of bee colonies and their environment.