Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Propolis is a natural resinous substance produced by bees, recognized for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Previous clinical trials have reported inconsistent results regarding its effects on various components of metabolic syndrome (MetS). To address this, we conducted a comprehensive meta-analysis to evaluate the impact of propolis on components of MetS in adults at risk. METHODS: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, Scopus, ISI Web of Science, and Google Scholar up to July 2025. This search aimed to identify all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that examined the effects of propolis supplementation on various components of MetS in propolis on components of MetS in adults at risk. Relevant studies were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis based on keywords related to propolis and MetS. The weighted mean difference (WMD) was calculated using a random-effects model. RESULTS: A total of 20 RCTs involving 1091 participants were included in this meta-analysis. The results indicated that propolis supplementation significantly reduced fasting blood sugar (FBS) (WMD: -7.93 mg/dL, 95% CI: -12.37 to -3.50, p < 0.001) and triglyceride (TG) levels (WMD: -12.32 mg/dL, 95% CI: -21.08 to -3.56, p = 0.006) when compared to the control group. However, the analysis revealed that propolis did not have a significant effect on waist circumference, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, or on either systolic or diastolic blood pressure. CONCLUSION: Supplementation with propolis significantly lowered FBS and TG levels in individuals with MetS risk factors. However, there were no significant effects showed on other components of MetS. These findings suggest potential benefits for glycemic and TG control, but more high-quality clinical trials with extended follow-up periods are needed to confirm and further investigate these results.