Effectiveness of Bee Propolis on Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Zahra Delavarian and et al.

Abstract:

Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) is a common, painful, and ulcerative disorder of the oral cavity with unknown etiology. There is no treatment or medications which can reduce outbreak frequencies. Systemic medications may have serious side effects. Propolis is a bee product used in some cultures as treatment for mouth ulcers. Anti-inflammatory effects and anti -microbial and immune system regulatory properties of propolis are known. The purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate the potential of this product to reduce the number of outbreaks of RAS ulcers. In this randomized, triple blind placebo-controlled study, 22 patients (12 case.10 control) with minor aphthous stomatitis referred to Oral Medicine Department from September 2011 until january2012.Patients were assigned to take 500 mg of propolis or a placebo capsule daily. Subjects were examined every 2 weeks for at least 6 months. They reported a baseline ulcer frequency and were assessed biweekly for recurrence of ulcers, ulcer size, pain and burning. Results were recorded to determine if subjects had a decrease in outbreak frequency. Data were analyzed using statistical software spss 11.0.Mann-wihthnney,T-test and chi square. RAS frequency between two groups was significantly different. Reduction of outbreaks in the propolis group (Fisher’s exact test, one sided. (p<0.05). This study has shown propolis to be effective in decreasing the number of recurrences and improve signs and symptoms in patients who suffer from RAS. However, for confirming the results, propolis should be evaluated further in larger sample clinical trial.