Effect of Propolis on Experimental Allergic Conjunctivitis in Rats

Abstract

Background and Aim: The purpose of the present study is to provide a basis for the use of propolis as a therapeutic agent for allergic conjunctivitis. Methods: The effect of propolis eye drops on experimental allergic conjunctivitis in rats was investigated. The allergic conjunctivitis in rats was occurred by sensitization and challenge of egg albumin and the number of eye scratching, hyperemia, chemosis, vascular permeability and histamine content in conjunctival tissue and tears were assayed. Results: Propolis significantly inhibited allergic symptoms including eye scratching, hyperemia and chemosis observed in conjunctivitis compared with the control group. Furthermore, this agent significantly inhibited increased vascular permeability induced by antigen and histamine release from the rat conjunctiva in correlation with a decrease in histamine content in tears. Conclusion: The efficacy of the propolis on allergic conjunctivitis in rats may be attributable to the antiallergic and anti-inflammatory action.