Back to the basics: Propolis and COVID-19

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Immunology
• Public Health

Background:

• COVID-19 presents a significant global healthcare challenge, straining medical resources and demanding effective preventive strategies.
• The upper respiratory tract mucosa serves as a critical first line of defense against viral infections like SARS-CoV-2.
• Developing methods to inhibit viral colonization, adhesion, and promote shedding is crucial for managing outbreaks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the potential of propolis as a low-cost inhibitor of SARS-CoV-2.
• To explore propolis's role in the oropharyngeal niche for prophylaxis or adjuvant therapy.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of propolis's antiviral properties.
• Analysis of propolis's effects on SARS-CoV-2 in the oropharyngeal environment.

Main Results:

• Propolis exhibits proven antiviral properties.
• It may act as a low-cost inhibitor of SARS-CoV-2, potentially reducing viral load in the oropharynx.

Conclusions:

• Propolis is a promising natural agent for COVID-19 management.
• Its use in prophylaxis or as adjuvant therapy warrants further investigation for controlling the pandemic.