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Apitherapy (Bee Products Therapy)

Therapeutic use of bee products such as honey, propolis, royal jelly and bee venom.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp department. Book Appointment →

What is Apitherapy (Bee Products Therapy)?

Apitherapy is the therapeutic use of bee products (honey, propolis, royal jelly, pollen, beeswax, bee venom/apitoxin). In Turkey it is regulated under the Traditional and Complementary Medicine Regulation.

The antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of propolis have been demonstrated in in-vitro studies. Royal jelly is investigated for immune-modulatory effects, and bee venom (apivenom-mellitin) for anti-inflammatory effects.

Bee venom therapy (apipuncture), is a special branch of apitherapy applied to acupuncture points with bee stings or purified bee venom injection. It is investigated in rheumatological diseases and neurological conditions.

Symptoms

Chronic inflammatory diseases
Wound healing (medical-grade honey)
Immune system support
Rheumatic pain
Upper respiratory tract infections

Risk Factors

Allergic reaction to bee products (anaphylaxis risk)
Bee venom allergy (can be life-threatening)
Botulism risk in infants (honey contraindicated under 1 year)
High allergy risk in atopic individuals
Anticoagulant users (bee venom may increase bleeding risk)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When an allergic reaction develops after using bee products
  • If bee venom therapy is being considered, an allergy test should be performed
  • Before using as a complement in chronic disease treatment
  • If swelling, redness or shortness of breath occur after apitherapy

Treatment Methods

01
Allergy testing (mandatory especially before bee venom)
02
Propolis tincture or extract (oral or topical)
03
Wound care with medical-grade honey (Manuka honey)
04
Royal jelly supplementation (capsule or fresh)
05
Bee venom therapy (under supervision of a trained physician)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp Department

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.