Learn about the benefits of propolis and how to use it for GIT diseases Gluten-sensitive enteropathy Propolis Propolis (also known as ‘bee glue’) is a unique resinous aromatic substance collected by honeybees from the buds of willow, birch, poplar, spruce, fir, horse chestnut and other trees. This substance contains not only resins but also wax and plant pollen enriched with digestive enzymes and exposed to the process of lactic-acid fermentation in the digestive organs of bees. Depending on the species of plants from which bees collect propolis it may vary both in color and in its chemical composition. For example, if bees collect it from a birch tree, then it is greenish, if from a poplar – reddish, aspen – gray; you can also come across brown, reddish black and even almost black propolis. But fresh propolis is usually of a yellow or reddish color and when mixed with wax and dust it becomes darker. If speaking about the structure of this substance, it is a dense heterogeneous mass soluble in water and organic solvents. A wonderful world of propolis The chemical composition of this substance is not yet fully understood.

It contains resins and balsams (about 50-55%), wax (30%), essential oils (10-15%) and pollen (5%). Besides that the following components can be found in it: Over 50 organic components and mineral elements (potassium, calcium, phosphorus, sodium, magnesium, sulfur, chlorine, aluminum, mercury, fluorine, antimony, cobalt, zinc, silicon, vanadium, iron, manganese, copper, strontium, selenium, zirconium, etc.); About 10 essential vitamins including B1, B2, B6, A, E, nicotinic and pantothenic acid, etc; 17 amino acids (serine, asparagic acid, glutamic acid, leucine, threonine, valine, arginine, etc); Propolis owes its most important therapeutic action to flavonoids (biologically active substances) which make propolis a highly effective anesthetic and wound healing agent. In addition, bee glue has a great antimicrobial effect. There was an interesting experiment which confirmed its high antimicrobial properties – a piece of raw meat was covered with a layer of propolis and left in the sun.

It remained fresh for several weeks. Therapeutic Value or Why do people use propolis? Propolis has a broad spectrum of action that is applied to the whole body, to all its systems and organs. Its main effect – bactericidal and bacteriostatic – is extensively used in medicine. Propolis has the power to inhibit the activity of a great variety of microorganisms as well as to kill many of them including Mycobacterium tuberculosis, viruses, protozoa (trichomonads), fungi (trichophytosis), candidiasis, viruses of influenza and hepatitis. Plus this substance destroys and removes foreign cells from the body with the native microflora of the host-organism saved intact. That’s why when propolis is used human gut flora suffers no damage, so you can avoid dysbiosis, unlike with antibiotics. It is true for both water and alcohol solutions of propolis. It is important to mention that microorganisms do not develop resistance to propolis during the whole period of use, no matter how long it lasts.

That happens due to the fact that bees collect the material to produce propolis from a huge number of different plants each having its own specific characteristics which means that polyfloral propolis has the properties of many plants and, therefore, it is fatal for microbes. They just do not have time to adapt and develop resistance to bee glue. It is worth mentioning that when hives were studied for bacteria carrying (the study dates back to the 19th century) it was discovered that a healthy hive is completely sterile thanks to propolis; This miraculous substance inhibits the growth of viruses (smallpox, herpes, influenza A virus, hepatitis virus). Not only it inhibits their growth but also is able to prevent viral infections of the body; Simultaneous use of propolis together with antibiotics is quite rational, because in such case propolis enhances the action of antibiotics and at the same time preserves human gut flora; Propolis not only affects microorganisms but also increases phagocytosis – the process that helps the body get rid of foreign material using special cells called phagocytes - and that contributes to lesser intoxication of an already diseased body.

Propolis will help the body remove foreign material from it as well as to recover from the stress caused by infection; Together with antibiotic action propolis shows anti-inflammatory effects which prevent, weaken and stop the progression of the inflammatory reaction caused by the foreign agents penetrated into the body; It improves the immunity and increases the level of gamma globulins in the body (thus, a so-called specific immunity (immunity to certain factors) is improved); It has antitoxic properties, thus, it is used for the treatment of various poisonings; Propolis is a great painkiller and shows good local anesthetic properties in the treatment of: the oral cavity, gums and teeth; the gastric mucosa damage (to treat gastritis it should be taken by mouth); otitis; solid propolis (it should be chewed); a part of comb honey; a part of bee pollen; water or alcoholic solutions (it should be drunk); a part of comb capping. Used topically as: plates, applications, ointments and compresses. In addition, propolis oil is used in aromatherapy. Propolis standing on guard of the human digestive system. Here are some formulas that can be used to treat various gastrointestinal disorders.

For gastrointestinal and bile ducts diseases: Propolis (10% tincture) – 10 parts Sea buckthorn oil – 1 part Propolis tincture should be mixed with sea buckthorn oil. Take the mixture as follows – 20-30 drops together with milk or water 3 times per day about 1 hour before meals. OR Propolis – 100 g (3.53 oz) Milk – 15 l (7.11 pints) Fresh whole milk to be boiled, removed from fire and cooled to 60-70°C (140 – 158°F). Add cut propolis to this milk and stir it slowly until propolis gets fully dissolved, after that filter the blend. When milk cools down remove the layer of solidified wax from its surface. Take 100 ml (3.38 fl oz) of propolis milk 3-4 times per day 30 minutes before meals.

For chronic gastritis with low acidity: Honey – 78 g (2.75 oz) Propolis (10% alcoholic extract) – 7 ml (0.24 fl oz) Kalanchoe pinnate (juice) – 15 ml (0.51 fl oz) Mix any light-colored honey, kalanchoe juice and extract of propolis, then keep it on a boiling-water bath at 45°C (113°F) for 20-30 minutes stirring it up constantly. Take one tablespoon of the blend 3 times per day about one hour before meals. The treatment course should last for 1 or 2 months. For peptic ulcer: Propolis (30% tincture) – 1 teaspoon Water – 50 ml (1.70 fl oz) Dilute propolis tincture with water and drink it about 30 minutes before your breakfast. Treatment course should last for 2-3 weeks. OR Alcohol – 8 parts Water – 1 part Prepare a 10% alcoholic solution using 80% alcohol. Take this solution as follows – 1 tablespoon of the solution 10 minutes before meals.

Once the ulcer is cicatrized, you should do a week break and after that take it every second day for 6 months. The whole course of treatment requires 180 ml (6.09 fl oz) of the solution. For peptic ulcer disease: Propolis – 100 g (3.53 oz) Dairy butter – 1 kg (2.21 lb) Melt the butter and make it boil in an enameled pot. Leave it on fire and add minced propolis to it. Boil the blend for 15 minutes at 80°C (176°F). Pass it through 1 layer of gauze. Take 1 teaspoon of the blend 3 times per day one hour before meals. Treatment should last for 3 weeks.

OR Propolis – 10 g (0.35 oz) 70% ethyl alcohol (rectified spirit) – 100 ml (3.38 fl oz) Put minced propolis into a glass bottle and pour rectified ethyl alcohol into it, shake it up for 30 minutes and leave it for 3 days to get prepared, then shake it up again and leave it for 2 hours in the cold, after that pass it through a paper filter. The tincture should be taken as follows – 15-20 drops together with boiled milk or tea 3 times a day about an hour or an hour and an half before meals during 18-20 days. Repeat the course of treatment in 1 or 2 weeks. For the healing of peptic ulcer disease and especially for ulcers in young people Propolis – 10 g (0.35 oz) Wild rose or sea buckthorn oil – 100 ml (3.38 fl oz) Clean, thoroughly cut propolis should be mixed with wild rose oil (or you can use sea buckthorn oil).

Keep this blend on a boiling-water bath for a half an hour stirring it slowly with a stirring rod, then filter it using 2 layers of gauze and pour it into dark glass vessels. Just before using it add 30% oily solution of vitamin E – 1 ml (0.03 fl oz) of the solution for 10 ml (0.34 fl oz) of the prepared propolis blend. For chronic gastritis as well as for the exacerbation of chronic colitis Propolis – 1 part 95% ethyl alcohol (rectified) – 5 parts Granulated propolis should be mixed with rectified ethyl alcohol in a glass vessel and left in it for two days at room temperature. Then it should be filtered and diluted with cooled boiled water up to 30% of alcohol content. Take it as follows – 40 drops of the tincture for one glass of cooled tea or milk 3 times per day before your meals (as per your diet) for 10-15 days. Also water solution of bee glue can be used to treat gastritis (1 tablespoon three times during a day half an hour or an hour before meals).

At the same time you can combine the use of this solution with herbal teas that treat gastritis. Treatment lasts for 3-4 months. Be careful while using bee glue because propolis may provoke allergic reactions such as rash, fever that disappears quite soon, hives, as well as breathing difficulties and edema. It has been noticed that such reactions are observed in people who have allergy to bees as well as in patients with allergic diseases (bronchial asthma, eczema, diathesis, nettle rash, etc.). Use propolis with caution if you have peptic ulcer disease. In any case, before you start using propolis as a remedy you need to talk to your doctor. Copyright © 2013 aHealthGroup . All Rights Reserved. aHealthGroup.com does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. See additional information. Propolis - bee glue - WeeksMD Posted on December 13, 2007 by Bradford S. Weeks, MD | 0 Comments Bee Pharmacopia: Topic: Propolis: a.k.a.” Bee Glue” What is Propolis?

Propolis (also known as “bee glue”) is a substance which the bees create from tree sap and which they use to caulk their hives. The derivation of the word refers to “pro” = “before” and “polis” = “the city or community” signifying “that which stands before or protects the community”. It is generally thought to be composed of 55% resins and balsams (birch and popular), 30% waxes, 10% etheric oils and 5% pollen (Der Imkerfreund). Bees gather the raw material from tree buds, bring it back to their hive and transform it into a gluey substance known to much of the world as “Russian penicillin” on account of Russian and Eastern European countries utilizing its potent anti-biotic properties. The typical modem hive is 50,000 cm3 and houses 60,000 bees. It doesn’t take a public health official to realize that sanitation is the honeybee’s number one concern. How do they keep that moist, warm hive space free of bacteria and other pathogens? Propolis is the answer.

The bees varnish the inside of their hive with propolis thereby sterilizing and sealing wherever it is applied. A more remarkable example of bees’ capacity to sterilize involves a luckless field-mouse caught invading the hive. The bees will sting it to death but what can they do with a corpse too large to drag out of the hive? They proceed to coat the dead mouse with propolis effectively mummifying it and thereby preserving the sterile interior of their hive. The preservative properties of propolis were not lost on the bees. None other than the great Stradivarius revealed that he used a homemade” propolis varnish” to seal his priceless violins. History of Propolis: Webster’s Third New International Dictionary defines Myrrh as “a yellow to reddish brown aromatic bitter gum resin that was used by the ancients as a remedy for local application”. Sounds like propolis! Current research is seeking to answer the question of whether the Wise Men actually brought propolis (myrrh) as a gift of the Christ child. A topical anti-biotic of such potency would be a timely gift for a newborn.

Webster’s also defines “balm” as a sticky resinous substance used by honeybees to varnish the insides their hives… ” What about the famous “Balm of Gilead”? Perhaps this most ancient and potent remedy may be a form of propolis. History also suggests that propolis was used to sterilize the site of surgery during the practice of trephination, the ancient surgery whereby holes were cut into living skulls for unknown clinical indications. Archaeologists point out patterns of regrowth around these holes suggesting, amazingly, that the operations did not prove to be fatal. Closer to the present, a propolis and Vaseline ointment called Propolisin or Propolis- Vasogen was used during the Boer’s War (1899-1902). This natural product, still available from beehives everywhere, has a lustrous history indeed! How Propolis Works: In order to understand the medicinal value of propolis, we need to understand its main component, bioflavanoids. A bioflavanoid is a chemical that aids in the anti-oxidant effect of vitamin C.

It protects of blood vessels by aiding in the absorption of oxygen thereby making blood vessel walls less fragile and more flexible. For example, varicose veins are unhealthy because they are starved for oxygen. They consume 3-fold less oxygen and produce more lactic acid than do healthy veins. Bioflavanoids allow the walls of veins to absorb more oxygen thereby effectively treating varicose veins. Another function of bioflavanoids is to act as stabilizers of collagen. In this service it augments the effect of vitamin C. Propolis has significant anti-oxidant properties (free radical scavenging) as noted by electron spin resonance spectroscopy. It inhibits cytochrome-C­reductase pathways, which also serves an anti-oxidant function. Propolis has been tested in the laboratory in a variety of models including culture plates, plant studies and animal models. In plant work: propolis, in concentration of 10 – 5, when compared to controls, was 40% more effective in treating the cucumber mosaic virus, 22 % more so in treating the tobacco spotting virus and 18 % more so in treating tobacco necrosis virus.

(Bojnansky-Czechoslovakia) In animal studies: the anesthetic effect of hydroalcoholic propolis is equivalent to 5 % Novocain in sheep and dog abdominal surgery with no change in pulse, breathing, temperature and reflex excitability. (Tsakoff-Bulgaria) Propolis’s anesthetic properties are 3.5 times greater than cocaine and 5.2 greater than Novocain (Curylo 1970). Propolis has interesting anti-cancer potential as demonstrated by its caffeic acid phenethyl ester being preferentially cyto-toxic on tumoral cells. The anti­tumoral property of Ethanol Extract of Propolis (EEP) is significant and lasting. In addition, mice irradiated with 60 CO gamma radiation survived significantly longer than controls that died of cancer. The study of propolis has produced a wealth of clinical information. Some in vitro work with the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) shows that propolis leads to a decrease in infecting titre and inhibition of viral replication. In many countries, pro polis is used as a first line topical anti-biotic, anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and analgesic agent.

It stimulates granulation and epithelization therefore being used to treat superficial lesions (cervical erosions, post-surgical sores, vaginitis) (Sucher; Poland ). Controlled trials showed propolis as superior to sulfadovaginol in treating erosions of uterine cervix and trichomoniasis, moniliasis and bacterial infections (Zawadzki; Poland ). Propolis’s most common use is in the treatment of parodontopathies (tooth ‘ and gum problems) (Gafar; Romania ). Other uses include: Moniliasis (Vasiliev; Bulgaria ) Rhino-sinus allergies, acute traumatic pharyngitiseczematous otitis, bacteriostatic and bactericidal effects (Karimova USSR ). When compared with sulphonamidic ointments and tetracycline, propolis 30% ointment BID for 1 week was a faster and more efficient agent. Most of the work with propolis has been done in Eastern Europe, the Soviet Union and China .

For example, between 1964 and 1972 Danilov reported 680 dermatological patients who were treated in Svetogorsk USSR with a 90.1 % positive cure rate. [Ed. note: specific diagnoses were not available] In addition, a 15% propolis with vegetable fat ointment was the most commonly used topical remedy used in Gorki’s Central Russian Hospital between 1961-70. During this time, 830 patients (age 1-87) were noted to have hastening of complete cicatrisation of wounds between dennoplasty treatments. Propolis’s anesthetic, bactericidal and regenerative effects on wounds were noted by Kazakov and Kirsanov (USSR). These investigators observed that propolis potentiates the epithelium proliferation and granulation, limits the surface scars and improves local blood circulation as compared to controls. Furthermore, propolis ointment dressings do not stick to the wounds thereby avoiding post-operative trauma to granulation tissue prior to trans­plantation.

How to use Propolis: Propolis should be harvested at warmest part of day because it is brittle when cold, but sticky and easy to gather when warm. It is insoluble in water but partially soluble in alcohol. For that reason, a tincture can be made from an alcohol base or an ointment from a vegetable oil base. The propolis remedies . I are best prepared by freezing and then grinding the propolis in a (second hand) coffee grinder. This propolis powder can then be added to alcohol (tincture) vegetable oil (ointment) or honey (cough medicine / bum ointment). Summary: Propolis has an ancient folk medicine tradition used topically for infections and wound healing but recently has been used to treat one of America’s most lethal diseases: hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol) which is a known risk factor for heart attack. It is readily available from the hive and ought not be over looked in the study of apitherapy. Aagaard, K.L. Propolis, Natural Substance the Way to Health. Mentor Apimondia, Propolis: Scientific data on composition, properties and therapeutic uses. Bucharest , 1978.

Greceanu, A_ Observations on the Antibiotic Effects of Propolis, Pollen and Honey Hill, R. Propolis Description of propolis’s antibiotic activity against Staph Aureus, Proteus, B. subtilis, Salmonella pallorum and gallinarum, e. coli, Pseudomonas pyocyanea etc. It is used in ulcers, as a topical anesthetic (3x more effective than cocaine solution and 5x more effective than Novocain solution) a remedy for sore throats, and for intestinal ailments. Serbanescu,T. Treatment of Bedsores with Antiseptic Powder with Propolis. MD in Rumania performed controlled clinical studies using propolis for bedsores. , Vasiliev, V. Treatment with Propolis of Moniliasis and Intertrigo in Infants. Vasilca, A. Local treatment of Chronic Ulcers with Extract of Propolis Propolis :American Apitherapy Society American Apitherapy Society CMACC 2016 Propolis has been used for centuries by many cultures for its antiseptic, antimicrobial, and detoxifying properties.

Propolis, also known as “Russian penicillin” or “bee glue”, is a sticky substance that bees make from tree and other plant resins. Bees keep their hive from being infected by coating the inside of the hive with it, thus preventing the spread of bacteria and fungi that would be detrimental to the well being of the colony. Propolis from different regions of the world exhibit slightly different properties depending on the types of tree and plant resins available in the area. Propolis contains flavonoid compounds known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity as well as tissue strengthening and regenerative effects. A 1994 Polish study found that mice given propolis lived longer than the mice in the control group. Antioxidants are thought to have anti-aging properties in humans as well. In many countries where antibiotics are not widely available, it is a common to use propolis to heal a wide variety of wounds. Used as an antiseptic wash or salve, propolis is able to prevent the growth of bacteria in cuts and burns and it can also promote the healing process in lesions of the skin that have not healed.

Used as a mouthwash, propolis is able to prevent bad breath, gingivitis, tooth decay and gum disease and it is commonly taken as a remedy for sore throats. Propolis is capable of acting as an anti-inflammatory as well. It can help with symptoms of arthritis, boils, acne, asthma, dermatitis, ulcers, and inflammatory bowel diseases. Propolis has also been found to have antimutagenic effects, which may aid in the prevention of cancer. In conjunction with royal jelly it can ameliorate the side effects of chemo and radiation therapies. (taken from material provided by Andrew Kochan, MD, 6-08) Members Login Propolis Benefits & Information Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis) Bees are some of natures busiest creatures. They build intricate hives, produce honey, pollinate flowers and provide health supplements to humans in the form of bee pollen and propolis. The use of bee propolis as a treatment for various ailments has been around almost since the beginning of time. What Is Bee Propolis? Propolis is a sticky substance that bees make which is better known as "bee glue".

The process begins when an expert propolis-making bee gathers resin from cone-producing evergreen trees or from the buds of trees. The bee will gather this sticky sap when the proper weather makes it pliable and soft. After the bee gathers enough, he blends the resin with wax flakes that he stores in the gland of his abdomen. After the bee has shaped it into a ball, he tucks it into the pollen basket that is attached to his leg. The bee will continue until the basket is full, then take it back to the hive. At this point, the propolis is unloaded and used to patch up holes in the hive. Bees also use propolis as an antiseptic barrier covering invaders with the sticky substance to prevent hive contamination. Propolis As A Natural Antiseptic Humans have been using this as an antiseptic since the times of ancient Egypt. Applying propolis to wounds greatly improved healing and throughout the centuries, this substance has been shown to have other healing properties as well. In the last several decades, health practitioners have found even more positive uses for propolis as a natural supplement. Propolis has been shown to increase the effects of other antibiotics like penicillin and can also strengthen the immune system.

Studies are now being done to see if propolis can become an effective treatment for the prevention of certain types of cancer. Propolis Contains Powerful Antioxidants As far as supplements go, what exactly are people using propolis for? Some people simply take it as a nutritional supplement in capsule form for the healthy ingredients it contains. It's rich in amino acids, bioflavonoids, mineralsand vitamins . Bioflavonoids are a powerful antioxidant with great health benefits to the immune system and help fight the free radicals that damage healthy red blood cells. The properties contained in propolis also promote better circulation. Some users have marveled at the increased vitality generated by taking this supplement. Propolis has also been known to help grow more beautiful hair and nails. Anti-inflammatory properties In natural medicine, propolis is used to relieve the symptoms of inflammations. It is also used as a way to treat superficial wounds like third-degree burns, scalds and ulcers of the skin. Practitioners also use it for people who have cataracts and viral diseases. In the natural medicine industry, propolis is called the great healer.

Propolis Can Be Found In Many Forms Propolis lozenges are used as a remedy for sore throat because of the antimicrobial properties that propolis contains. It has strong antifungal properties as well. It works as a treatment for any type of mouth, throat or dental problem like plaque, canker sores and for the prevention of oral disease. Some health practitioners also believe that propolis can be effective against oral tumors. Used an oral rinse, it can reduce inflammation and irritation in the tissues of the gums, lips and throat. Propolis is also available in capsules, as an ointment and also as a rinse or topical liquid. As a rinse it has the ability to regenerate dental pulp, making it ideal for the prevention of dental caries. The cream form has numerous uses in the treatment of blemishes, acne and psoriasis. As an acne treatment, propolis has excellent healing abilities. The cream form is also used for relieving discomfort from herpes outbreaks and the scaling pain of eczema. Creams are versatile and can be combined with other natural ingredients such as aloe for increased skin soothing effects. You will also like: Bee Propolis Extract/Powder - General Ingredient Inc.

Bee Propolis Extract/Powder Propolis, also known as Bee Propolis or bee glue, is a resinous substance that is made mainly from tree sap and used by bees to seal their hives. It was also found in small quantities in honey. Propolis has antibiotic properties that prevent the hive from viruses, bacteria and other organisms. Propolis it contains amino acid, minerals, ethanol, vitamin A, B complex, E, pollen and highly active ingredients known as flavinoids or bioflavonoids. Benefits: Propolis (Bee Propolis) Home - Nutritional supplements - Propolis (Bee Propolis) Propolis (Bee Propolis) Propolis, also known as bee glue and bee propolis, is a brownish resinous substance collected by bees, mainly from poplar and conifer buds, and used to seal their hives. Because of antimicrobial properties of propolis, it helps keep hives free of germs. Propolis has a long history of use in folk medicine and was even used as an official drug in London in the 1600s.

Over time, propolis has been used for many purposes and marketed as lozenges, cough syrups, toothpastes, mouth rinses, lipsticks, cosmetics and even for the varnishing of Stradivarius violins. It appears to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities. The composition of propolis is variable, depending on the locale and variety of trees and other plant species used for the collection. For example, unique constituents have been identified in propolis collected in Cuba and Brazil. The main chemical classes found in propolis are flavonoids, phenolics and terpenes. The flavonoids include quercetin, apegenin, galangin, kaempferol, luteolin, pinocembrin, pinostrobin and pinobanksin. The phenolic ester (caffeic acid phenethyl ester or CAPE) present in propolis is receiving much attention in the medical research community because of its potential for the treatment of a number of disorders, including spinal cord injury. Most of the substances in propolis are poorly soluble in water. Bee propolis is a waxy substance collected by honey bees which contains phytotonizides.

Phytotonizides are believed to contain immunity factors, which when used internally, stimulates the body and gives it a natural resistance to diseases (a natural antibiotic). Propolis is gathered from all around the world, and proper temperature control will assure maximum freshness and consistency. As a supplement, Bee Propolis is an excellent aid against bacterial infections. Stimulates 'phagocytosis'; helps white blood cells to destroy bacteria. Good results against inflammation of the mucous membranes of the mouth and the throat, dry cough, halitosis, tonsillitis, ulcers, and acne. Stimulates immune system. Propolis has antibiotic activities that help the hive block out viruses, bacteria, and other organisms. Commercial preparations of propolis appear to retain these antibiotic properties, according to test tube studies. Test tube and animal studies have also shown that propolis exerts some antioxidant, liver protecting, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. Propolis contains protein, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and flavonoids. For this reason, some people use propolis as a general nutritional supplement, although it would take large amounts of propolis to supply meaningful amounts of these nutrients.

Propolis may stimulate the body’s immune system, according to preliminary human studies, and a controlled trial found propolis-containing mouthwash effective in healing surgical wounds in the mouth. In test tube studies propolis has shown considerable activity against bacteria and yeast associated with dental cavities, gingivitis, and periodontal disease, but one human study showed that propolis was no better than a placebo in inhibiting dental plaque formation. Propolis extracts may be helpful in protecting against and shortening the duration of the common cold. A preliminary human study reported propolis extract (amount not stated) reduced upper respiratory infections in children. In one small double-blind study of 50 people with the common cold, the group taking propolis extract (amount not stated) became symptom-free more quickly when compared with the placebo group. The antimicrobial properties of propolis may also help protect against parasitic infections in the gastrointestinal tract. One preliminary study of children and adults with giardiasis (a common intestinal parasite infection) showed a 52% success rate of parasite elimination in children and a 60% rate in adults in those given propolis extract (amount not stated).

However, these results are not as impressive as those achieved with conventional drugs used against giardiasis, so propolis should not be used alone for this condition without first consulting a physician about available medical treatment. Research shows that propolis offers antiseptic, antibiotic, anti-fungal, and even antiviral properties. It is often called "Russian Penicillin" in acknowledgement of the extensive research that has been done by the Soviets. One of the most valuable properties of all the natural bee hive products is that they exhibit true immunostimulating characteristics. Unlike many modern medical drugs, propolis does not depress the immune system, but instead boosts it. Chemical antibiotics destroy all bacteria in the body including the friendly and necessary flora required for healthy functioning. An individual that takes constantly takes antibiotics for one condition after another soon learns that the drugs no longer work as well as they once did. As the bacteria get "smarter" the drugs become less effective over time. It is a medical fact that some biologically harmful strains of bacteria develop a resistance to antibiotics. Propolis, being a natural antibiotic works against harmful bacteria without destroying the friendly bacteria your body needs. Propolis has been proven effective against some strains of bacteria that resist chemical antibiotics.

The mechanism of the possible actions of propolis may be understood by reviewing research findings on some of the individual compounds found in it. It is difficult to study the mechanism of actions of more than one compound at a time. Therefore, the following descriptions apply only to single compounds. The contribution of any single compound to the possible action of such a complex substance as propolis is difficult to know. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) inhibits the lipoxygenase pathway of arachidonic acid, resulting in anti-inflammatory activity. CAPE is also known to have anticarcinogenic, antimitogenic and immunomodulatory properties. CAPE has been found to completely inhibit the activation of the nuclear transcription factor NF-Kappa B by tumor necrosis factor (TNF), as well as by other pro-inflammatory agents. The inhibition of NF-Kappa B activation may provide the molecular basis for its immunomodulatory, anticarcinogenic, anti-inflammatory and antiviral activities. It is possible that CAPE exerts its effects by inhibiting reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. ROS are known to play a major role in the activation of NF-Kappa B.

Get Set for Health - Bee Propolis Bee Propolis FACTS Bee propolis (also known as bee glue) is the sticky substance used by bees to seal their hives to protect them from unwanted intruders and infection. Insects and small animals who haplessly enter the hive are first stung to death and then embalmed in propolis to prevent disease-causing decay. Bees don't make propolis; they gather if from trees. Propolis includes many different substances, such as resins, vitamins, minerals, and a large amount of bioflavonoids. Propolis, the Greek word for "defender of the city," was highly valued in ancient times. Early healers intuitively knew that propolis was a natural disinfectant, and they used it for a wide variety of ailments. Hippocrates prescribed to heal skin wounds and soothe angry stomach ulcers. The great English herbalist Nicholas Culpeper wrote that propolis was "good for all heat and inflammation in many parts of the body and cools the heat of the wounds." During both World Wars, soldiers applied propolis to their wounds to prevent infection.

Intrigued by the folklore, modern scientists investigated propolis and discovered it does indeed have natural antibiotic, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory compounds. Recent trials conducted at the National Heart and Lung Institute confirmed that propolis is effective against a wide range of disease-producing microbes, including Staphylococcus aureus MRSA, commonly known as staph, which is resistant to most antibiotics and is common in hospitals. This is particularly important, considering that the overuse of antibiotics is creating a new breed of "monster" bacteria that is resistant to all known antibiotics. If wee are to stop the spread of drug-resistant bacteria, we must look to new types of natural therapies like propolis that can keep bacteria in check. Propolis can be used both externally and internally. Recently, natural healers have found that propolis is an excellent treatment for sore gums, mouth ulcers, and sour throats. Propolis salve can be rubbed on sore gums to soothe inflammation and prevent infection. As a gargle, propolis can help relieve the pain of sore throat and mouth ulcers and promote healing. Propolis is effective ageinst the herpes virus; when gently applied to the herpes lesion, propolis can help relieve pain.

When taken orally in capsule form, propolis is reputed to stimulate immune function. POSSIBLE BENEFITS Promotes healing of skin wounds. Treats sore throats and gum disease. THE RIGHT AMOUNT Take one 200-mg capsule daily. Personal Advice At the first sign of cold symptoms, I dissolve a zinc lozenge in my mouth and take vitamin C, propolis, Echinacea, and goldenseal. By the next say, the cold disappears. Progressive Labs Bee Propolis Standardized Home > What's New > Progressive Labs Bee Propolis Standardized Progressive Labs Bee Propolis Standardized Bee propolis, also known as bee glue, is a brownish resinous substance collected by bees, mainly from poplar and conifer buds, and used to seal their hives. Because of its antimicrobial properties, propolis helps to keep the hive germ-free. Details PROPOLIS PROPOLIS Also known as bee glue. It is well known that Honey resists spoiling because it is free from germs. Honey has been put on wounds and Soviet surgeons often feed honey to their patients prior to surgery as a precaution to reduce infection.

Nature has provided Bees with a substance that keeps them and their hives free of germs in spite of 40,000- 50,000 bees being crammed into close quarters in the hive. The protective substance is called "Propolis" which is a name derived from two Greek words meaning "defenses before a town". The bees places Propolis near the opening of the hive to sterilize anything entering it. Bees encase any foreign object that entering the hive in a cocoon of propolis to prevent decay. Small creatures that have the misfortune of entering the hive are stung to death and entombed in propolis and wax. Crude honey from natural hives contains bits of propolis which keeps it sterile. The Assyrians and Egyptians may have learned of the antiseptic and embalming property of propolis-rich honey from the bees. These ancients buried their dead in honey and wax. Bees do not make propolis; they gather it from the buds of trees such as the poplar and horse-chestnut, and from cracks in the bark of trees such as spruce, larch and other conifers.

Propolis is not a single compound, but a varying mixture if many compounds including nutrients and the anti-bacterial galangin. The amount of propolis present in refined honey has diminished due to modern beekeeping processing methods. Propolis is obtained by chipping it away from the hive. Before modern medicine, history tells us that propolis was used as a remedy for slow healing sores and intestinal ailments. Hippocrites, the father of modern medicine, recommend honey (with its entrapped propolis) for sores and ulcers. In the first century AD, Pliny, Celsus and Dioscorides described the use of bee propolis in health. Early herbalist such as John Greard's "The History of Plants" (1597), Nicholas Culpeper's, Complete Herbs" and " Green's"Universal Herbs" (1824). Described health uses of propolis, generally as an ointment taken directly from the tree as opposed to beehives. It is reported that propolis was used on slow-healing wounds and sores during the Boer War and even during the Second World War in Russia.

Interest lessened in propolis with the advent of modern anti-bacterial such as penicillin. Early tests showed propolis had direct anti-bacterial activity and later tests showed that propolis went beyond anti-bacterial activity. Propolis was determined to have anti-viral activity, anti-fungicodal activity and even enhanced the immune systems response. EFFECTIVENESS Propolis has been found to be highly effective against the following effects of these bacteria: B. subtilis (Caron), Staphylococus aureus, B. Alveiand Proteus vulgaris; Moderately effective against Salmonella Pallorum, Salmonella gallinarum, S. type Dublin, Escherichia coli, B., and Bacillus larvae; but not effective against Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas Pyocyanea. Dr. N. Likar, bacteriologist at the Institute of Microbiology in Ljubljana notes that propolis was the first substance known to inhibit the growth and activity of the microbe Proteus. Dr. Likar also reported that Propolis was effective against the worst of all bacteria Staphylococus aureus. Dr.

Maximillian Kerns, also of the Clinic of Ljubljana in Yugoslavia, has reported very good results for propolis against inflammation of the mucous membranes of the throat and mouth, halitosis and tonsillitis. Dr. Franz K. Feiks of the Public Hospital at Klosterneuberg in Austria conducted a clinical trial of Propolis against ulcers. Fifteen ulcer patients were treated exclusively with propolis, whole seventeen patients were treated with conventional medication. Fourteen of the fifteen propolis treated patients were cured while only six of the conventionally treated patients were cured. In a second test, Dr. Feiks treated 294 hospitalized with ulcers Ninety percent of the 108 patients given propolis were free of symptoms after two weeks compared to 55 percent of the 186 conventionally treated patient. Dr. Fekis noted that 70 percent of the propolis group obtained relief after three days compared to only ten percent of the group receiving conventional medication. Dr. Edit Lauda, a Soviet physician, reported in 1958 that a propolis tincture and ointment completely healed the vast majority of patients with various types of acne.

One test involved 59 patients who still had severe acne after several years of antibiotics during treatment in dermatological clinics. Dr. Lauda reported that all 25 cases of acne simplex were completely healed in one week, and that 35 cases of acne simplex combined with acne pustules were healed within three weeks Clinic trials should be repeated to verify these earlier trials. In 1955, A Soviet physician, Dr. Prokopivic determined that a quarter of a percent propolis solution was three timed more effective than a corresponding cocaine solution and more than 50 times as effective as a Novocain solution. In 1973, a report from the U.S.S.R. decribed a new anesthetic that was a mixture of Novocain and propolis. Soviet dentists have regularly used a 4 percent propolis solution as a pain killer. Dr. P. Kravcuk of Kiev, U.S.S.R., found Propolis effective against sore throats and dry coughs in 90 percent of 260 patients. Dr. Izet Osmanagic of Sarajevo, Yugoslavia, tested propolis against influenza during an epidemic.

270 Volunteers were studied, with 88 of them taking propolis. only seven percent of those taking propolis became ill compared to 63 percent of those not taking propolis. Two international symposiums have been held in Czechoslovakia to discuss the many health benefits of propolis. According to one report, propolis stimulates the body's immune system. The report states, "The mechanism for healing in propolis is based not only on its anti-bacterial propensity and the detoxifying effect, but also on defensive reactions of the organism." Dr. Remy Chauvin of Pairs, France, concurs, "Propolis works by raising the body's natural resistance to infections through stimulating one's own immunity system." SAFETY No side effects has been reported for propolis, but perhaps a very small percentage (1/20th of one percent) of the population may be allergic to propolis; but as Susan Smith Jones commented in Let's Live, "Bee Propolis has been around for 40 million years! That's a reasonable testing period." REFERENCES 1 Hill R., Propolis, The Natural Antibiotic, Thorsons, Wellingborough, England (1977) 2 Jones, S.

Let's Live, 112-118 (Oct. 1979) 3 Churchill, R. American Chiropractor, 34-38 (Jan/Feb. 1980) 4 Kravcuk, P. Doctoral Dissertation, Kiev Univ., USSR (1971) 5 Vosnjak, M. The Miracle of Propolis, Thorsons, Wellingborough, England (1978) 6 First and Second International Symposia on Propolis , Czechoslovakia (1976-78)

Question: The substance propolis is also known as ‘what’ glue?
Answer: Bee