Chemical and biological properties and biomaterial applications of Egyptian propolis: A review

Abstract

Egyptian propolis, a resinous material collected by honeybees from a variety of botanical sources, has received increased scientific attention due to its complex chemical composition and diverse biological activities. Egyptian propolis contains a diverse range of bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, terpenoids, and aromatic aldehydes, and its chemical composition varies depending on botanical origin and geographic region. This review conducts a thorough analysis of its chemical constituents and investigates the biodiversity in its composition across various Egyptian ecosystems. The biological properties of Egyptian propolis are thoroughly discussed, including its powerful antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and antioxidant properties, which have been validated by numerous in vitro and in vivo studies. These properties have enabled their use in various biomaterial domains, including food preservation, wound healing, and dental care. Egyptian propolis has been used in medicine, industry, and in the production of nanoparticles due to its antimicrobial properties. However, more research is needed on Egyptian propolis because there are few studies exploring its various applications. This work is to consolidate current knowledge and identify future directions for the development of Egyptian propolis as a sustainable and multifunctional material.