Products
Propolis is contained in ointments, creams, tinctures, oral sprays, lip balms, capsules and body care products, among others. As a rule, these are not registered drugs, but cosmetics. The pure substance is available from beekeepers or in pharmacies and drugstores. When buying propolis products, care must be taken to ensure that the substance is contained in an acceptable concentration.
Structure and properties
Propolis (Greek: “at the entrance of the city”) is a natural product collected by bees from trees and bushes and mixed with secretions of the maxillary glands and beeswax. In Europe it comes mainly from poplars. The insects use propolis for the construction and repair of the hive, for example, against cracks, to line the inner walls and as an antiseptic against diseases and parasites. Propolis is a lipophilic, resinous substance that is brittle at low temperatures and becomes soft, gummy and sticky when heated. It has a pleasant and aromatic odor, a sharp bitter taste and a yellow, green, red or brown color. Organic solvents and ethanol in particular are used to make the products (propolis tincture).
Ingredients
Propolis consists of a complex mixture of over 300 different substances. Components include resins, waxes, essential oils, pollen, bee enzymes, minerals and various organic substances such as flavonoids (polyphenols), phenolic carboxylic acids, carbohydrates and isoprenoids. Because it is a natural product, its composition is variable and depends on many factors, including plant species, geographical location and bee species.
Effects
Propolis has antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antiparasitic, wound-healing, anticariogenic, antitumor, and anti-inflammatory properties, among others.
Indications for use
Preparations with propolis are used, among other things, for the treatment of skin diseases, for wounds, for inflammations in the mouth and throat and in dentistry. In addition, various other areas of application exist.
Contraindications
Propolis should not be used in case of hypersensitivity. A complete list of precautions is not available.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include allergic reactions and allergic contact dermatitis.