How native stingless bees are helping to combat antimicrobial resistance

New research from the University of Sydney expands the potential medicinal benefits of honey and propolis (the plant resin and beeswax mixture bees use to build their nests) produced by Australia's stingless bees. Building on earlier research, a study led by Ph.D. candidate Jasmin Li tested the honey and propolis against bacterial and fungal pathogens. The honey was active against all bacteria tested, including species that are a growing concern for antimicrobial resistance, such as hard-to-treat hospital bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae.