Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), an active component of propolis, has been proven to have anti-inflammatory and antiallergic properties. The authors have investigated the activity of CAPE in regulating cytokine-induced eotaxin production and its related signal protein, signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6), in human lung fibroblast. Chinese researchers investigated the effects of encapsulated propolis on blood glycemic control, lipid metabolism, and insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) rats. Their findings showed that oral administration of encapsulated propolis can control blood glucose, modulate lipid metabolism, and improve the insulin sensitivity in T2DM rats. Breast cancer patients use alternative and natural remedies more than patients with other malignancies. Specifically, 63-83% use at least one type of alternative medicine and 25-63% use herbals and vitamins. This new study reveals that CAPE (caffeic acid phenethyl ester), the major medicinal component of propolis, appears to inhibit tumor growth, both in vitro and in vivo without much effect on normal mammary cells. Professor Hiroshi Maruta visited New Zealand from 29th of June till the 5th of July 2009 on invitation from Nutrigenomics NZ in association with Manuka Health NZ