Propolis: types, composition, biological activities, and veterinary product patent prospecting

Area of Science:

• Bee products research
• Natural product chemistry
• Veterinary medicine

Background:

• Propolis is a complex resinous substance from bees, rich in bioactive molecules.
• It possesses antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antiparasitic, hepatoprotective, and immunomodulatory properties.
• Its chemical composition and biological activities vary based on flora, collection location, and bee genetics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the biological, chemical, and microbiological properties of propolis.
• To explore patent landscape for propolis-based animal health products.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of propolis properties.
• Technological patent prospection for animal health applications.

Main Results:

• Numerous studies confirm propolis's diverse therapeutic potential.
• Propolis extracts show promise for various veterinary applications and formulations.
• A limited number of propolis-based veterinary products have registered patents.

Conclusions:

• Propolis has significant potential for use in veterinary medicine.
• The development of novel propolis-based veterinary products represents a promising, underexploited market opportunity.