Propolis is a substance produced by bees from tree sap and combined with beeswax and saliva, consisting of a sticky brown product that serves as a coating to protect the hive.
Currently, more than 300 compounds have been identified in propolis, most in the form of polyphenols that act as antioxidants, fighting diseases and damage to our body. Propolis still has properties that protect against bacteria, viruses and fungi, as well as being anti-inflammatory and helping to treat the skin.
- Propolis can be used in different ways.
- Applied directly to the skin.
- In water to make steam inhalations.
- Gargle and can be taken pure or diluted in water or tea.
Creams, ointments and lotions containing the substance are already available on the market for ingestion in tablets, liquid extract and capsules and also exist in functional and cosmetic foods. Propolis can be found and purchased in pharmacies and health food stores or directly from producers. Find out what propolis extract is for and how to use it.
Propolis has a different composition in every place in the world and that is why there are still no studies indicating a recommended dosage. There is usually a recommended dosage on the product label, but it is advisable to consult a doctor before using it.
This remedy is indicated for people allergic to propolis. In addition, only non-alcoholic preparations of the composition are indicated during pregnancy or lactation under medical supervision and for children under 12 years of age.
Propolis is antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal and anti-inflammatory. Some of the benefits these properties provide to the compound include:
Propolis has been shown to have the power to act on skin lesions preventing the growth and action of bacteria, yeasts and fungi, anticipating the healing process.
Compared to the anti-inflammatory action of dexamethasone, propolis showed better results in the treatment of oral surgical wounds. Propolis also accelerates the healing of wounds in the feet of people with diabetes and promotes healing from burns by accelerating the growth of new healthy cells.
Applying propolis to the skin every 3 days can help treat mild burns and prevent infections. However, more studies are needed to define the dosage and effects of this compound.
There are already propolis-containing ointments in their composition, such as Herstat or Coldsore-FX, that work by reducing symptoms and curing cold sores and genital herpes more quickly. However, propolis has only shown results, if applied 3 to 4 times a day on the wound, the healing time has been more effective than with other substances, such as aciclovir, and in addition the use of propolis is already associated with the protection of the body against future herpes-related lesions.
For its antimicrobial properties, daily intake of propolis, orally, fights and reduces sores and prevents them from appearing. The same is true in people with gingivitis, which is an inflammation of the gums, where propolis can be used as a gel or rinse to prevent and reduce signs of the disease, as well as help fight bad breath.
Studies have been conducted on the action of propolis in the treatment of breast cancer and its use as complementary therapy, not as a single treatment, has already shown significant results. They have been shown to have anogenous effects because their anti-inflammatory ability can reduce the risk of cells becoming cancerous and prevent them from multiplying.
Because of its ease of use and access and its low cost compared to the benefits it brings, propolis is increasingly studied and consumed.
Propolis acts as an antimicrobial, due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and enzymatic activity ability, has become a useful and effective alternative in the treatment against H. pylori, a bacterium that lives in the stomach and causes gastritis, which is inflammation of the stomach. , peptic ulcer and even some cancers.