Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin disease that can impair the quality of life of patients. These individuals are seeking more natural alternatives to alleviate and treat the symptoms. Propolis has beneficial properties for the skin and it appears that it could be a solution to this disease. Let's explore if this is the case in this article.
The benefits of propolis on psoriasis.
Published on February 20, 2024, by Manon, Scientific Editor — 3 min of reading
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What are the benefits of propolis on psoriasis?
Propolis is a resinous and gummy substance produced by bees from tree sap and certain plants. This natural ingredient is rich in bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, and terpenes. The use of propolis against the psoriasis can be done in various ways: creams, lotions or ointments. It offers various health benefits, particularly for the skin.
Propolis for its anti-inflammatory properties.
A study has shown that administering propolis to mice for 14 days led to the inhibition of IL-1β, IL-6, IFN-γ, IL-2 and IL-10 production. These cytokines induce the inflammatory process in many chronic diseases. Propolis also inhibited the differentiation of Th17 cells, lymphocytes involved in the pathogenesis of psoriasis.
The flavonoids found in propolis can inhibit the nuclear transcription factor NF-κB, cytokines IL-6, IL-12, IL-17A as well as the tumour necrosis factor TNF-α, which is produced by keratinocytes and plays a role in inflammation in cases of psoriasis. Among these flavonoids, we find chrysin, galangin, quercetin, pinocembrin and pinobanksin in particular.
The immuno-stimulating action of propolis.
In cases of psoriasis, the immune system is dysfunctional, leading to chronic skin inflammation. Propolis can help regulate the body's innate immune response. This resinous substance contains cinnamic acid, which downregulates TLR-2, HLA-DR, and CD80, and upregulates the expression of TLR 4. TLR 4 plays a role in the activation of innate immunity, while CD80 isa costimulatory molecule known for its role in activating T lymphocytes and also in regulating the activity of B lymphocytes. Thus, propolis is capable of modulating the innate immune response by either decreasing or increasing it.
The propolis and its healing action.
The biological action of propolis on cellular regeneration and wound repair can be explained by its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. In one study, propolis accelerated the healing process by promoting the expression of TGF-β and its downstream signalling, increasing the expression and deposition of type I collagen, and reducing matrix metalloproteinases which, when present in high quantities, degrade the components of the extracellular matrix and disrupt the smooth progression of the healing process.
In general, propolis possesses intriguing properties that potentially enable it to be used for alleviating the symptoms of psoriasis.
Sources
SFORCIN J. M. Biological properties and therapeutic applications of propolis. Phytotherapy Research (2016).
ZEINALI M. & al. An overview on immunoregulatory and anti-inflammatory properties of chrysin and flavonoids substances. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy (2017).
