Sunday, April 29, 2007

Brazilian Propolis Displays Anti-Ulcer Activity

Pharma Investments, Ventures & Law Weekly, May 6, 2007

A report, "Baccharis dracunculifolia, the main botanical source of Brazilian green propolis, displays antiulcer activity," is newly published data in The Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology. According to recent research from Brazil, "Baccharis dracunculifolia is the most important botanical source of Southeastern Brazilian propolis, known as green propolis for its colour. In a previous study, we described the gastric protective effect of the hydroalcoholic extract of Brazilian green propolis."

"We therefore wanted to investigate the possibility of using B. dracunculifolia extract for antiulcer treatment…

The percentage of ulcer inhibition was significantly higher in groups treated with B. dracunculifolia, cimetidine or omeprazole, with all protocols used, compared with negative control groups. Regarding the model of gastric secretion, reductions in the volume of gastric juice and total acidity were observed, as well as an increase in the gastric pH. These results were similar to results from studies carried out with green propolis extract," wrote M. Lemos and colleagues, University do Oeste of Santa Catarina.

The researchers concluded: "Although more investigations are required, our results suggest that B. dracunculifolia has potential to be used as a phytotherapic preparation for the treatment of gastric ulcer."

Lemos and colleagues published their study in the Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology (Baccharis dracunculifolia, the main botanical source of Brazilian green propolis, displays antiulcer activity. Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, 2007;59(4):603-8).

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