Propolis Facts
Propolis is a wax-like resinous substance collected by bees from tree buds.
It is used as cement to seal cracks or open spaces in the hive. It is also called "bee glue."
Some of its ingredients include resin, essential oils, amino acids, minerals, ethanol, vitamin A, B complex, E, pollen and highly active ingredients known such as flavonoids or bioflavonoids.
It also contains phenolics and terpenes. Most of these substances do not dissolve well in water.
Propolis acts as a natural antibiotic. It stimulates the thymus gland and thus enhances the body’s immune system. This helps your body to protect itself against illness and disease.
Propolis is available many forms. These include tablets, capsules, ointments, powders, extracts, creams, lotions, and other cosmetics. It can also be found in small quantities in honey.
It is particularly popular as lozenges, tinctures and solutions.
Propolis and Gastric Ulcers
There evidence that propolis in solution heals gastric ulcers. Gastric ulcers are normally linked to infection by helicobacter pylori. Propolis is able to counter helicobacter pylori.
In addition, it can play a role in stomach ulcer prevention.
Other Benefits of Propolis
Propolis has a variety of interesting antimicrobial and anti-tumour properties. Traditionally, it has been used for energy enhancement and general health support.
It is a flavonoid-rich product. It exhibits antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
An ointment made of propolis can be used to heal genital herpetic lesions.
This product enhances the immune system and the flavonoids contained in it act as antioxidants.
Propolis extracts are helpful in defending us from, and shortening the duration of the common colds. As lozenges, it is highly efficient for soothing sore throats.
A mouthwash of propolis may reduce plaque formation. It can also reduce bacteria in the mouth, relieve dental pain and gum inflammation (periodontitis). It is useful as a sealant after root canal surgery, and aid in the healing of dental wounds.
Other popular remedies include its ability to combat:
It also has anti HIV-1 activity and there is evidence of anti-cancer activity. It can tackle influenza and herpes viruses as well as various fungal and bacterial organisms.
It promotes healing of sores, wounds, acne, blemishes, eczema. It also enhances the body’s absorption of iron, calcium, phosphorus and magnesium.
Propolis Side Effects
Propolis is non-toxic when ingested orally or applied to the skin.
However, it may occasionally cause contact dermatitis and other allergic reactions.
Do not use it if you are allergic to any of its components.
Avoid using propolis supplements if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
In addition, pregnant women should avoid tinctures because of the high alcohol content.