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Propolis is a substance naturally produced by bees from the sap of trees, which is combined with beeswax and saliva, resulting in a sticky brown product that serves as a coating and protection for the hive.
Currently, more than 300 compounds have been identified in propolis, most of them in the form of polyphenols that act as antioxidants, fighting diseases and damages in the human body. Propolis still has properties that protect against bacteria, viruses and fungi, as well as being anti-inflammatory and helping to treat the skin.
The most common form of presentation of propolis is the "propolis extract" that can be ingested, but there are also other products that use this ingredient such as creams, ointments, tablets and even cosmetics.
What is propolis used for
Studies made with propolis have shown that the substance has several medicinal properties. In this way, it can be used to:
1. Accelerate wound healing
It has been proven that propolis has the power to act on skin lesions preventing the growth and action of bacteria, yeasts and fungi, anticipating the healing process.
When compared to the anti-inflammatory action of Dexamethasone, propolis showed better results in the treatment of surgical wounds of the mouth. Propolis also accelerates the healing of wounds on the feet of people with diabetes and promotes recovery from burns, as it accelerates the growth of new healthy cells.
Applying propolis to the skin every 3 days can help treat minor burns and prevent infections. However, further studies are needed to define the dose and effects of this compound.
2. Relieve inflammatory processes
One of the most well-known properties of propolis is its anti-inflammatory action, which seems to be able to relieve inflammation locally, but also throughout the body.
For this reason, propolis has been widely used to treat sore throat, flu, sinusitis and tonsillitis and help treat respiratory problems.
3. Help treat herpes
There are already ointments that contain propolis in their composition, such as Herstat or Coldsore-FX, which act in reducing symptoms and faster healing of cold sores and genital herpes. However, propolis alone has also shown results, if applied 3 to 4 times a day on the wound, the healing time has been more efficient than with other substances, such as Acyclovir, and in addition the use of Propolis is already associated with protecting the body from future herpes injuries.
4. Cure thrush and gingivitis
Because of its antimicrobial properties, taking propolis every day, orally, combats and reduces thrush and prevents them from appearing. The same happens in cases of people with gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gums, where propolis can be used in gel or with a rinse preventing and reducing the signs of the disease, in addition to helping to fight bad breath.
5. Prevent cancer
Studies on the action of propolis in the treatment of breast cancer have been carried out and using it as complementary therapy, not a single treatment, has already shown significant results. They have been proven to have anti-cancer effects because their anti-inflammatory ability is able to reduce the chance of cells becoming cancerous and prevents them from multiplying.
Due to its ease of handling and access and low cost in relation to the benefits it brings, propolis has been increasingly studied and consumed.
6. Protect againstHelicobacter pylori
Propolis acts as an antimicrobial, due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant capacity and by modeling enzymatic activities, it has become a useful and effective alternative in the treatment against H. pylori, bacteria that lives in the stomach and causes gastritis, which is inflammation of the stomach, peptic ulcer and even some types of cancer.
How to use propolis
Propolis can be used in different ways: applied directly to the skin; in water to make steam inhalations; gargle or can be taken pure or diluted with water or tea.
There are already creams, ointments and lotions on the market containing the substance, to be ingested it is found in the form of tablets, liquid extract and capsules and also exists in functional foods and cosmetics. Propolis can be found and purchased at pharmacies and health food stores or directly from producers.
Propolis has a different composition in each place of the world and for that reason there are still no studies that indicate a recommended dose. There is usually a dose recommendation suggested on the product label but it is recommended to consult a doctor before using.
Possible side effects
The main side effect that can occur with the use of propolis is the allergic reaction that causes symptoms such as swelling, redness, itching or hives on the skin.
To avoid serious allergy reactions, it is recommended to do a sensitivity test before using the pópolis, for which it is only necessary to drip 2 drops of the extract on the forearm and wait between 20 to 30 minutes and check if itchy or reddened skin.
Who should not use
Propolis Extract is contraindicated for people with allergies to propolis or any of the product's formula components. During pregnancy or lactation, propolis should only be used under medical advice
In addition, the versions of the extract with alcohol in the composition are also contraindicated for children under 12 years of age.