Propolis activity against trypanosomatids of medical relevance: a therapeutic perspective for Chagas disease and leishmaniasis

Abstract

This article presents a review of the basic clinical and epidemiological aspects of leishmaniasis and Chagas disease, as well as the potential utility of propolis, a natural product from bees widely used in popular medicine, for their specific treatment. Infections caused by protozoan parasites are considered neglected diseases and affect millions of people in the world, requiring large efforts on research for the development of safer and more effective therapies. Currently there is great interest in phytotherapy as an alternative approach for the treatment of these diseases. Among these approaches propolis is being actively investigated, based in its previously known antimicrobial activities. Distinct pharmacological activities have been attributed to the different types of propolis, particularly in Brazil. Several studies in vitro and in vivo with extracts of propolis against Trypanosoma cruzi and Leishmania spp have had promising results, but further work is required to confirm the potential value of this natural product for the treatment of human infections.