Bee Propolis And Fighting Infections

A waxy, resin-like substance is collected by worker bees as they travel between trees and flowers. The substance is found on leaf buds and the barks of trees. If you are allergic to bee stings or other bee products, you may be allergic to propolis. Always consult with your medical doctor before taking any form of nutritional supplement to avoid adverse reactions.

About

Propolis is mixed with beeswax to create the hive. Propolis has strong antimicrobial qualities used to protect the hive from outside organisms, such as viruses, bacteria and other potentially dangerous matter. According to Murray, propolis may be able to fight off colds and treat inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative collitis. Finally, the product also may fight off parasitic infections in the intestines.

Evidence

There is little scientific evidence supporting the use of many bee products, including propolis. Still, Murray mentions a double-blind study where patients receiving propolis recovered from the common cold quicker than those receiving a placebo. A study involving the use of propolis used to treat patients with giardiasis, a parasitic infection, showed improvement when using propolis by about 50 percent. Still, conventional drugs are available to treat patients with much better results. More studies are required to find the true benefits of propolis.

Use

Bee propolis is often found in oral care products such as mouthwash and toothpaste. According to Drugs.com, the bee product may decrease oral ulcers, reduce cavities and boost overall dental care. The product is occasionally mixed into spreads or found in health food bars. Propolis supplements in the form of tables and liquid are available at health food stores.

Contradictions

If you are allergic to bee or wasp stings, consuming propolis may result in a mild allergic reaction. Initially, your skin may show red, slightly raised welts. The welts blanch, or turn white, when pressed down and then return to a red color. They may continue to spread over the body as the reaction continues. Your skin may itch due to your allergies. Taking an antihistamine often relieves uncomfortable symptoms. Still, some people suffer from more severe episodes known as anaphalaxis, which can make breathing difficult and can cause unconsciousness and death. You must receive immediate medical care, often involving an epinephrine shot, to reverse the allergic reaction.