This review looked at propolis—a waxy substance made by bees—and found it has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that show promise against certain cancers, particularly skin melanoma, oral, breast, and prostate cancers. The research suggests propolis works by triggering cancer cell death and stopping cell growth, but the authors are clear: most studies are in labs, not on humans yet. Large-scale clinical trials are needed before propolis can be recommended as a cancer treatment.

This is a mini-review, meaning researchers analyzed and summarized findings from multiple existing studies on propolis rather than conducting their own experiment. They focused on studies specifically showing strong evidence of anti-cancer effects.

Funding not disclosed in abstract