The effect of medicinal plants on the health and properties of honeybee products (Apis mellifera)

Extracts and essential oils of medicinal plants have been able to exhibit their role in impacting growth performance, the microbiota of the digestive tract, digestion, and immunity. The beekeeping industry is also facing many challenges such as pests and diseases. The use of chemical drugs not only raises microbial resistance but also declines the marketability of bee products with residues. Encountering suitable and effective natural alternatives has always been one of the concerns of all researchers. Medicinal plants with numerous compounds have been able to reveal their positive influence on farm animals and can be used as a reliable alternative. The use of nectar and pollen of medicinal plants by honeybees not only controlled pests and improved honeybee diseases but also enhanced the quality of products produced by this beneficial insect. There is a lot of scientific information related to antioxidant properties of bee products, but it is vital to provide a general view of the effects of medicinal plants on this industry and to improve the antioxidant properties of bee products.