Propolis is a resin-like bee product that the bees collect from the leaves, stems, and buds of plants. Its main function is to provide and maintain an antiseptic environment in the hive. Honeybees use propolis to protect their larvae and themselves against microorganisms (viruses, bacteria, and fungi), and they use it as a source of disinfectant in the hive. It has a high antioxidant capacity due to its rich content of flavonoids and phenolic compounds.
Research conducted at Istanbul University in 2012 investigated the apoptosis-inducing effect of propolis on selected breast cancer cell lines using in vitro tissue cell culture techniques. The propolis samples were obtained from Brazil, China, Argentina, and Turkey. The results of the study showed that Anatolian propolis from Turkey was the strongest apoptosis inducer, without causing any harm to healthy cells.
Reference
Saygili, N., Timirci-Kahraman, Ö., Kisakesen, H.I., Yilmaz, E., Yilmaz-Aydogan, H., Bilgiç, S., Öztürk, T., Seyhan M.F., Eronat, A.P., Tüzüner, M.B. ve Öztürk, O. 2016. Farkli Cografik Orijinli Propolislerin MCF7 Meme Kanseri Hücrelerindeki miRNA Ekspresyon Profiline Etkileri, IV. Multidisipliner Kanser Kongresi, BURSA, TÜRKIYE, 13-16 Aralik 2012, ss.1