Antimicrobial Properties of Tetragonula laeviceps Propolis for Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus: A Review

Abstract

Escalating use of antibiotics has led to the development of microbial resistance, exemplified by the emergence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), which displays resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics, leading to skin infections, pneumonia, and bacteremia. The ramifications of such resistant bacterial infections, encompassing prolonged hospitalization, heightened treatment costs, and increased mortality rates, underscore the critical need for judicious management of "Drug of Choice" antibiotics to avert compromised sensitivity to MRSA. Effective resource management is imperative to address the MRSA threat. Propolis, a wax product renowned for its enriched antimicrobial properties attributed to terpenoids, saponins, alkaloids, and polyphenols, is derived from various bee species, with particular emphasis on Tetragonula laeviceps, the most widely distributed species in Southeast Asia. This literature review explores the potential of Tetragonula laeviceps propolis as an alternative treatment for MRSA infections. Recognizing the efficacy of propolis in combating antibiotic resistance holds valuable implications for future research and treatment strategies.