Bioactivity of Heterotrigona itama Propolis as Anti-Inflammatory: A Review

Abstract

Chronic inflammation is common in infectious diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and autoimmune diseases. Several pharmaceutical therapies are readily available. However, using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is accompanied by dangerous side effects. Therefore, searching for safer alternative therapies with no side effects is very important. Currently, natural sources of kelulut bee (Heterotrigona itama) propolis have not been fully utilized for treatment, especially for inflammation. This study aims to study the bioactivity of kelulut bee propolis H. itama as an anti-inflammatory. The literature review was used as a method by searching related journals using Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Garuda. Based on the study's results, it was found that H. itama propolis has the potential to suppress inflammation through the inhibition of free radicals and decrease COX-2. The compounds that have the potential to have this activity are influenced by the resin source collected by the kelulut bees. This information can be used as a reference for developing natural ingredients from propolis for anti-inflammatory properties.