Effect of Ethanolic Extract of Propolis on Serum Biochemical Factors Level and Total Antioxidant Capacity in Adult Male Rats

Abstract

Aims: Propolis is one of the natural materials collected by the honeybees. The material is extensively used to treat some diseases. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of ethanol extract of propolis of Qazvin plain on some biochemical factors, as well as serum antioxidant capacity, in adult male Wistar rats. Materials & Methods: In the experimental study, 40 adult male Wistar rats were divided into four groups (n=10 per group). The first was control group. The experimental groups received 50, 100, and 200mg/kg propolis. After 10day gavage, the serum of the rats being extracted, glucose, triglyceride, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and total antioxidant capacity were measured. Data was analyzed by SPSS 20 software using one-way ANOVA and Tykey's post-hoc tests. Findings: There was no significant difference in the blood sugar level between different groups and control group. There was a significant reduction in triglyceride level in "100mg/kg" group than control group (p<0.001). There was a significant increase in aspartate aminotransferase level in "100mg/kg" (p<0.01) and "200mg/kg" (p<0.001) groups. There was a significant reduction in alanine aminotransferase level in "50mg/kg" group (p<0.001). Propolis led to a significant increase in the total antioxidant capacity of serum, especially at 50mg/kg (p<0.05) and 100mg/kg (p<0.01) doses. Conclusion: Oral consumption of propolis has a moderating effect on some blood biochemical factors especially triglyceride. In addition, it increases serum total antioxidant capacity. Nevertheless, its excessive consumption might damage patients with liver diseases.