The biochemical effect of bee stings on thyroid function in hyperthyroid women

Abstract

This study was carried out in Elkhalia Investment Company in Khartoum during September to December 2003. The effect of bee venom on serum thyroid hormones and thyroid stimulating hormone in hyperthyroid women was studied. Fifteen women suffering from hyperthyroidism were included in this study, their ages range between 30-60 years and all had the symptoms of the disease. Fifteen healthy women were also used as a control. The bee venom treatment was started by two stings on the first day then the number was increased to four stings and repeated daily for two weeks. The results showed that, bee venom treatment resulted in a significant reduction of the serum thyroid hormones levels and a significant increase of the serum thyroid stimulating hormone level.