Amazon’s stingless bees produce powerful healing propolis from açaí flowers

Deep in the Amazon rainforest, native stingless bees are creating a natural remedy that could revolutionize skincare and wound treatment. New research from Brazil’s Embrapa agricultural research company and the Federal University of Pará reveals that propolis produced by Amazonian meliponine bees—particularly the species Scaptotrigona aff. postica, locally known as abelha-canudo—possesses remarkable healing and anti-inflammatory properties.

These industrious bees, fueled by açaí flowers, collect resinous substances from tree buds to create propolis, which they use to seal and protect their hives. Historically, indigenous communities used this bee-produced resin to treat war wounds. Now, scientists have developed a propolis-based cream that performed as well as commercial healing ointments in dermatological tests, directly influencing wound healing and producing milder inflammatory responses.

The discovery adds another dimension to the Amazon’s bioeconomy, which already generates over $1 billion annually from açaí berries alone. While açaí’s antioxidant-rich purple pulp has gained global recognition as a superfood, researchers are finding that the entire ecosystem surrounding these plants holds similar therapeutic potential. The propolis-based treatments offer significant advantages over conventional pharmaceuticals, including minimal side effects, reduced chemical residues, and fewer preservatives.

Though stingless bees produce less honey than their stinging relatives, their unique propolis could open new markets for sustainable Amazon products. This research highlights how protecting biodiversity can unlock valuable medical innovations while supporting local communities and conservation efforts.