Artepillin C-rich propolis extract supplementation promotes muscle recovery following exercise-induced muscle damage in resistance-trained young females: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study designs: Randomized Controlled Trial, Clinical Trial
Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) results from intense or unaccustomed exercise, leading to inflammation, oxidative stress, and reduced muscle function due to excessive reactive oxygen species. Propolis, a natural bee-derived substance rich in bioactive coumpounds such as artepillin-c, exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, suggesting its potential to mitigate EIMD. This study investigated the effect of a standardized Brazilian green propolis extract (EPP-AF) on recovery from EIMD, which is characterized by muscle soreness, reduced function, and lower muscle quality. METHODS: Twenty-two trained female participants were randomly assigned to consume eight capsules of EPP-AF (containing approximately 54 mg artepillin C) or a placebo (PLA) for seven days. On day four, participants performed 10 sets of 10 maximal eccentric contractions of the knee extensor muscles. Maximal voluntary isokinetic torque (MVIT), muscle thickness (MT), muscle ultrasound echo intensity (EI), and delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) were assessed before and at 2 h, 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h post-EIMD. RESULTS: = 0.037) in the days following days of eccentric exercise compared to placebo. CONCLUSION: EPP-AF may alleviate the symptoms and attenuate markers of muscle damage in the knee extensor muscles of resistance-trained females. These findings highlight the potential of propolis as a natural intervention to enhance recovery from EIMD.
Institutions: Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Apis Flora (Brazil)
Language: English
Subfield: Rehabilitation
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,490
OpenAlex ID: W4415075736