Propolis in animal health and production: a review

Abstract

Propolis is a resinous substance produced by bees that is known for its various biological properties, including antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. These properties make propolis a promising natural additive for managing the health of domestic animals, including monogastric animals and ruminants. Propolis supplementation enhances growth performance, improves gut health by modulating the microbiota, and boosts immune responses in poultry and swine. Its antimicrobial properties help to reduce infections and promote overall health and productivity. Propolis improves milk quality in ruminants such as cattle and sheep by increasing beneficial fatty acids and improving antioxidant capacity. It also helps reduce the prevalence of mastitis by inhibiting pathogens, such as Staphylococcus aureus. In addition, propolis helps protect udder health and ensures higher milk yields. Moreover, propolis improves nutrient digestibility and feed efficiency, thereby improving animal growth and production metrics. Overall, incorporating propolis into animal diets offers a natural and effective means of enhancing animal health and productivity, reducing reliance on antibiotics, and supporting sustainable agricultural practices. The multifaceted benefits of propolis underscore its potential as a valuable tool in modern animal husbandry.
Keywords: antimicrobial; antioxidant; monogastric; phenolic compounds; ruminant.