Propolis Information: Use & Benefits

Bee propolis is a resinous substance that bees collect from various trees. Bees use it together with bees wax in order to construct hives. It has a long history of medicinal use dating back to 350 B.C. Today, it is used both internally and externally for a variety of therapeutic purposes.

A List of Purported Benefits

Propolis is thought to contain antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties. When used topically on wounds, it may also work as an effective anti-inflammatory agent and promote faster healing time. It is purported to have a large variety of benefits and uses, however, most evidence for its usefulness is anecdotal. Possible uses include the treatment of abscesses; acne; aging; allergies; minor burns; nose and throat cancer; gastrointestinal problems, such as peptic ulcers; halitosis; and inflammation of the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat. However, there is currently insufficient evidence to support the effectiveness of using propolis for these purposes.

Immune-System Booster

Propolis contains a wide spectrum of flavonoids, vitamins, minerals and enzymes; all of which support the immune system. It is thought to boost the immune system and both prevent and help treat the flu, tuberculosis, the common cold and a wide variety of acute infections. Phyllis Balch says in her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing" that propolis is thought to stimulate phagocytosis, which is the process in which white blood cells attack and destroy pathogens. Natural News says that propolis also stimulates the formation of antibodies to help build an ongoing immunity to a variety of illnesses.

Topical Uses

A topical ointment containing 3-percent propolis has been found to significantly improve healing of recurrent genital lesions caused by herpes simplex virus type-2. It might even heal outbreaks faster than 5-percent acyclovir, which the conventional prescription ointment that is used for the treatment of genital herpes. For therapeutic purposes, apply a 3-percent propolis ointment to herpes blisters, four times daily. When used as a mouth rinse in a solution that contains water and alcohol, it may also effectively improve healing time and reduce pain and inflammation after mouth surgery. Balch adds that it is also effective as a salve for abrasions and bruises due to its antibacterial properties.

Treatment of Neurofibromatosis

Compounds found in propolis have been found to be beneficial for neurofibromatosis. This is a genetic disorder that can cause coffee-colored skin patches and produce tumors on nerve tissues in the ears, brain, spinal cord and other places in the body. A study found that propolis effectively stopped neurofibrosis tumor growth in a group of cancer patients, however, more research needs to be done to confirm the efficacy of propolis for this purpose.