Apitherapy in Lithuania

Apitherapy is the complex use of bees, bee products, beehive air therapy, apipuncture, and related treatments to alleviate discomfort caused by disease. Products of the honey bee (Apis mellifera), such as honey, propolis, pollen, bee bread, bee venom, beeswax, and royal jelly, have long been valued for their diverse biological effects and medicinal properties. These products are widely used in human and veterinary medicine, with growing scientific interest validating their applications as natural alternatives to modern treatments. The Lithuanian Apitherapy Association (LAA), founded in 1991, traces the roots of apitherapy in Lithuania to 1962–1966, when studies at Kaunas Clinics investigated the effects of fresh royal jelly on heart disease patients. Subsequent research expanded to include propolis ethanol extracts, royal jelly, and bee venom. Today, medical professionals, biologists, researchers, veterinarians, and other experts are actively investigating the potential of bee products across diverse scientific disciplines. LAA is also a member of the International Federation of Apitherapy (IFA). On January 14, 2020, Lithuania officially recognized apitherapy by adopting the Law on Complementary and Alternative Health Care (CAHC). This law classifies apitherapy as one of 15 CAHC services, along with hypotherapy, phytotherapy, hirudotherapy, canine therapy and others. It also establishes specific qualification requirements for the licensing of CAHC apitherapy specialists. With its deep historical roots and ever-expanding scientific base, apitherapy continues to grow in importance as a holistic approach to health and wellness. Its natural, sustainable methods not only complement conventional medicine, but also address growing consumer demand for alternative treatments. The diverse range of bee products provides effective, evidence-based solutions for managing a wide range of health challenges, making apitherapy an essential part of modern healthcare strategies.