The role of bee products in the control of antimicrobial resistance and biofilm formation

Abstract

The discovery of antibiotics saved many lives. Infections were not as deadly a problem for clinicians as they once were. However, due to inappropriate and excessive use of antibiotics, antibiotic resistance has increased dramatically worldwide. Infectious diseases are becoming more challenging to control, and they cause increased morbidity and mortality. Also, a significant risk to human health is posed by infections associated with biofilms. To combat these drug-resistant microorganisms, several novel and alternative strategies have been identified. Bee products such as honey, bee pollen, propolis, royal jelly, bee venom, bee wax, and bee bread have the potential of being used as antimicrobial or antibiofilm agents in various industrial and medical applications. Although these products have some restrictions such as their varying and complex composition, they possess significant potential in the field of medical practices as viable alternatives to antibiotics. They offer a potential solution to the issue of antibiotic resistance. The objective of this review was to offer a comprehensive analysis and evaluation of strategies based on bee products that are currently employed or have been suggested against antimicrobial resistance.

Keywords

• antimicrobial resistance
• antibiotic alternatives
• biofilms
• bee products