Nanocarriers as drug delivery systems for propolis: A therapeutic approach

Propolis is a resinous material produced by bees (Apis mellifera) from different botanical sources. It has a wide variety of biological activities attributed to its chemical constituents, which are mainly phenolic acids and polyphenols such as flavonoids. These components usually have low water solubility and poor bioavailability. Polymeric, lipid and inorganic nanocarriers had been mainly used as drug delivery systems to overcome the physiological limitations of propolis chemical constituents. This review covers recent research on different types of nanocarrier agents used to explore the delivery and therapeutic improvement of propolis extracts, as well as their physicochemical characterization and biological activities. Future studies should focus on understanding the chemical composition of propolis in association with nanosystems and how affects its encapsulation. Additionally, in vivo evaluations to assess the relevance of propolis associated to nanocarriers as therapeutic options are needed. [Display omitted] •Propolis is a gummy-resinous material with a wide range of biological activities.•Propolis chemical components comprise a challenge for its therapeutic application.•Propolis chemical components can improve biological and pharmacological activities.•Nanocarriers can overcome propolis bioavailability and water solubility problems.•Polymeric, lipidic and inorganic nanocarriers have been used for propolis.