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Antibacterial activity of propolis against MRSA and synergism with topical mupirocin

Yusuf Onlen1, Nizami Duran, Esin Atik

  • 1Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Mustafa Kemal University Faculty of Medicine, Hatay, Turkey.

Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (New York, N.Y.)
|October 13, 2007
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Propolis combined with mupirocin significantly reduced methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) nasal carriage in rabbits. This combination therapy also lowered inflammatory responses more effectively than either treatment alone.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Pharmacology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) poses a significant threat in healthcare settings.
  • Nasal carriage of MRSA is a major risk factor for invasive infections.
  • Effective strategies to eradicate MRSA nasal carriage are crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy of propolis and its combination with mupirocin against MRSA nasal carriage.
  • To assess the impact of these treatments on inflammatory responses in rabbit nares.

Main Methods:

  • A rabbit model was used to study MRSA nasal carriage.
  • Animals were treated with topical mupirocin, ethanolic extract of propolis, or a combination.
  • Bacterial counts and cytologic examination of nasal smears were performed.

Main Results:

  • The mupirocin + propolis group showed a significantly greater reduction in bacterial counts compared to mupirocin or propolis alone (p < 0.0001).
  • Combined therapy led to a significant decrease in polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMNL) count, indicating reduced inflammation.
  • Mean bacterial counts were substantially lower in the combination group (360.2 cfu/mL) versus mupirocin (4120.6 cfu/mL) or propolis (5980.8 cfu/mL) alone.

Conclusions:

  • Propolis enhances the efficacy of mupirocin in reducing MRSA nasal carriage.
  • The combination therapy offers a more profound reduction in bacterial load and inflammatory response.
  • Propolis represents a promising adjuvant agent for MRSA decolonization strategies.

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