Propolis is a resinous mixture with a complex chemical composition, produced by honeybees and stingless bees from a variety of vegetal sources. In the last decades, propolis was extensively researched, multiple studies confirming its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties. More recently, due to an exponential increase in the number of patients with metabolic diseases, there is also a growing interest in the study of antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic, and anti-obesity effects of propolis. The aim of this review was to evaluate the potential role of propolis in the prevention and treatment of metabolic diseases like diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, and obesity. The preclinical in vivo and in vitro pharmacological models investigating antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic, and anti-obesity effects of propolis were reviewed with a focus on the putative mechanisms of actions of several chemical constituents. Additionally, the available clinical studies and an evaluation of the safety profile of propolis were also presented.

Betalains are natural, hydrophilic pigments present in a variety of plants from the order Caryophyllales, extensively used as non-toxic food colorants and antioxidants. In recent decades, betalains have been intensively researched, with numerous studies confirming their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antinociceptive properties. More recently, due to a significant increase in the aging population worldwide, there has been growing interest in the study of preventive effects of betalains on age-related, degenerative brain diseases. The aim of this review is to evaluate the potential neuroprotective role of betalains in the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease, as well as other types of neurodegenerative and ischemic brain injuries. Preclinical in vivo and in vitro pharmacological studies investigating the neuroprotective effects of betalains are reviewed, with a focus on the putative mechanisms of action. Available studies in humans are also presented.

Morphological and Histo-Anatomical Study of Bryonia alba L. (Cucurbitaceae)