Bee pollen is pollen collected by bees to replenish their food supply. The composition of the pollen, including the content of fatty acids, nucleic acids, nucleosides, phenolic compounds, vitamins, and bioelements, determines its therapeutic properties [21]. Previous studies have found that bee pollen can be used in the treatment of prostatitis, acute and chronic hepatitis; it regulates intestinal function, inhibits histamine reactions that cause allergy symptoms, and helps maintain normal sex hormone levels [22]. Pollen has also been reported to have beneficial effects on the cardiovascular, respiratory, and nervous systems, treatment of wounds and inflammation [23], and enhancing the effects of pharmacological cancer therapies [24]. In cosmetics, bee pollen can effectively enhance protective mechanisms against skin ageing, skin dryness, ultraviolet B radiation, oxidative damage, inflammation, and melanogenesis [25].
Propolis is a complex resinous mixture used by bees mainly to build their hives. It comprises resin, wax, pollen, essential oils, and organic compounds such as amino acids, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, alcohols, terpenes, aromatic esters, aldehydes, alcohols, or vitamins [1]. Propolis has anticancer, antiviral, anti-fungal, antioxidant, and antihistaminic effects [26]. It accelerates wound healing, relieves gum disease, and is used in treating recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis and gastric ulcers and as an adjunct in breast cancer therapy [27]. Beneficial effects of propolis on immunity, nervous and cardiovascular functioning [28,29], and the respiratory system [30] have also been reported. Propolis polyphenols support the intestinal microflora, inhibiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria [31]. It also helps to maintain a healthy body weight [32]. The