Green Propolis from Minas Gerais: Latest Scientific Discoveries
Green propolis from Minas Gerais, Brazil, is a resinous substance produced by Apis mellifera bees from the exudates of the Baccharis dracunculifolia plant. Renowned for its medicinal properties, it has become the focus of numerous scientific studies. Below is an overview of the latest findings on this unique form of propolis.
Chemical Composition and Stability
Analyses have revealed that green propolis from Minas Gerais is particularly rich in flavonoids such as pinocembrin, artepillin C, and baccharin. A study conducted over a six-year period showed that the flavonoid composition remains stable despite seasonal variations, highlighting its remarkable chemical consistency.
Biological Activities
Antimicrobial Properties
Green propolis has demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against pathogens such as Helicobacter pylori, Mycobacterium avium, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. In vitro tests revealed effective minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC), indicating its potential as a natural antimicrobial agent.
Antioxidant Activity
Thanks to its richness in phenolic compounds, green propolis exhibits strong antioxidant capacity. Tests using DPPH and ABTS methods confirmed its efficacy in neutralizing free radicals, contributing to its protective effects against oxidative stress.
Anti-inflammatory and Immunomodulatory Effects
Research has shown that aqueous extracts of green propolis can modulate inflammation, angiogenesis, and fibrogenesis in mouse models. These effects are attributed to the presence of caffeoylquinic acids and phenylpropanoids, which influence inflammatory pathways and cytokine production.
Therapeutic Potential
Green propolis from Minas Gerais continues to attract interest for its potential applications in human health, especially in the treatment of resistant bacterial infections and inflammatory diseases. Its stable chemical composition and multiple biological activities make it a promising candidate for the development of new natural therapeutic agents.
In summary, green propolis from Minas Gerais stands out due to its rich and stable composition and diverse biological properties. Ongoing research continues to reveal its therapeutic potential, reinforcing its status as a highly valuable natural product.