Figure 1 - Propolis, the ‘caulk’ honeybees use to patch holes in their hives.
The buzz on propolis in the scientific community has slowly been reaching an uproar. Researchers are well-aware of the potential of this waxy substance to act as an antioxidant, anti-microbial, analgesic, anesthetic and anti-inflammatory. However, new research has revealed another exciting use for this miraculous natural remedy.
Propolis Slows Tumor Growth
You read right, researchers from the University of Chicago Medical Center have investigated the anti-cancer potential of propolis, focusing on one of it’s bioactive components and it’s impact on human prostate cancer cells.
The Findings:
In cells grown in a lab, even small doses of caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) were enough to slow the growth of tumor cells. Similarly, when low oral doses were given to mice with prostate tumors, their tumor growth was slowed by a whopping 50 PERCENT! Moreover, daily consumption of CAPE was able to stop tumor growth entirely in the mice.
Haven’t We Seen This Before?
I have seen at least four other studies on propolis which indicate that it is able to directly kill cancer cells (including prostate cancer & melanoma). Which leads me to agree with the researchers in their claim that the good bioavailability of propolis via the oral route & it’s safety profile makes it an ideal adjuvant agent for future anticancer regimens.
When it comes to cancer, there can be no substitute for effective prevention. However, for those who have jumped aboard the wagon too late in their lives, natural therapies such as propolis may hold future promise in reducing their exposure to toxic forms of therapy such as chemo. I know I will be watching this space with eagerness to see what exciting revelations await us in future.
Reference:
Chi-Fung Chan, G., Cheung, K-W., Sze, D. M-Y. (2012). The immunomodulatory and anticancer properties of propolis. Clinical Reviews in Allergy & Immunology, doi: 10.1007/s12016-012-8322-2.
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