Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, autoimmune, and neurodegenerative disease that affects the central nervous system. Royal jelly (RJ), a nutrient-rich substance known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, holds potential in impeding disease progression by mitigating inflammatory processes and oxidative stress. This study was undertaken to explore the impact of RJ on oxidative stress and inflammatory markers in individuals diagnosed with MS. METHODS: This randomized clinical trial involved the allocation of 35 MS patients into two groups: intervention (n = 19) and control (n = 16). The intervention group received daily 500 mg RJ capsules for a duration of 2 months, while the control group received placebo capsules. Prior to and following the intervention, the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) was ascertained for the patients. Furthermore, the serum levels of inflammatory markers interleukin (IL-1B), IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and interferon (IFN), in addition to the oxidative stress indices catalase (CAT), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase, and nitric oxide were evaluated. The data were analyzed using the GraphPad Prism software. RESULTS: After the intervention, the mean EDSS score significantly decreased in the case group compared to pre-intervention (P < 0.05). Levels of MDA, IL-1B, TNF, and IFN significantly decreased in the case group post-intervention (P < 0.05). Additionally, a significant increase in CAT enzyme levels was observed in the case group after two months (P < 0.05). In contrast, the control group showed a significant increase in MDA levels after 2 months compared to baseline (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that RJ supplementation may have beneficial effects on inflammatory markers, oxidative stress indices and quality of life in MS patients.