An overview about apitherapy and its clinical applications

Abstract

Background: Humanity has benefited from bee products over the centuries for treating and preventing various illnesses, and apitherapy has been employed in several countries as a complementary medicine. This review aimed to discuss scientific research and clinical trials using bee products and their relationship with apitherapy. Methods: Scientific researches based on studies carried out in vitro using different cell cultures, and in vivo studying mice or other experimental animals are discussed. Clinical trials using bee products are also documented. Results: The most common applications of bee products in apitherapy are presented, as well as cases of allergy to bee products and apitherapy for treating allergies. Standardization of bee products and their use in research and apitherapy are discussed. Conclusion: Apitherapy is practiced in some parts of the world, bringing benefits for healthy individuals and patients, with no clear consensus on its application according to the world regions or a prevalent use of bee product and treated disease. Different recommendations regarding the use of bee products are found and people ingest different amounts of bee products once or several times a day. Although we have advanced a lot about the knowledge of bee products, it is imperative to exploit their potential and standardize their use, communicating the results in scientific and alternative events to reinforce the exchange of information between beekeepers, researchers, apitherapists, nutritionists, physicians, sellers and consumers of bee products. If not, we will always be working separately, without complementing our expertise.