Bee propolis for inflammatory bowel disease: A review of its gastroprotective effects, mechanisms, and translation strategies

BACKGROUND: Propolis is a natural bee product containing diverse botanicals-derived active compounds. Its bioactive constituents vary to its geographical origin and botanical sources. Bee propolis has been effectively shown as a potent modulator for different inflammatory-related diseases. PURPOSE AND METHODS: We systematically reviewed literature from PubMed and Web of Science to evaluate the gastroprotective effects of propolis in experimental colitis models. Additionally, we analysed innovative strategies, such as nano-delivery systems, to enhance its therapeutic and preventive potential. RESULTS: Regardless of botanical origin, propolis demonstrates efficacy in several preclinical inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) models. Several active constituents, including caffeic acid phenethyl ester and artepillin C, protected against colitis by regulating the Nrf2, NF-κB, JAK-STAT, and NLRP3 pathways, and by restoring the intestinal barrier and gut microbiota. Novel delivery systems address bioavailability limitations, enhancing the clinical viability of propolis and its active compounds. CONCLUSIONS: This review moves beyond a generic description of propolis, establishing a rationale for the precise usage of natural products in IBD. By matching geographically distinct propolis types to specific pathological stages, this work provides up-to-date data towards a standardised, targeted propolis-based interventions for IBD. Using advanced delivery systems and precision nutrition strategies hold great promise for advancing propolis into practical clinical therapeutic applications in the future.