Today propolis is widely used as a medicine, either as a formulation or as an ingredient in other formulations. The main researched properties of propolis are:
Anti-inflammatory action
It stimulates the motility of macrophage immune cells and suppresses some enzymes, which allow an inflammation to develop. One possible explanation for the action of this propolis is the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, which is responsible for the onset of inflammation.
Antibacterial action
Propolis covers a wide range of bacteria. Co-administration with antibiotics reduces the damage they cause to the body. It acts on staph and streptococcus, which are responsible for infections of the oral cavity. Cinnamic acid, some aromatic ingredients and many flavonoids are the substances that give propolis its antibacterial properties.
Antiviral action
The flavonoids contained in propolis are also responsible for its antiviral action. It works effectively against herpes viruses, and adenoviruses. Other ingredients, such as esters and caffeic acid, are involved in the action of propolis against viruses. Finally, propolis acts prophylactically against influenza, hepatitis B and shingles.
Antifungal action
Propolis proves to be effective against the attacks of pathogenic fungi on the skin. In dermatology and cosmetology it ensures the radiance and radiance of the skin by reducing candida and microsporum. It activates the immune system and produces a large number of macrophages, necessary for the eradication of fungi and bacteria.
Healing action
Propolis achieves the healing of damaged tissues mainly thanks to the essential oils it contains. Studies have shown the protective effect of propolis on tissues exposed to radioactivity. An experiment conducted in 1989 by the Silesian Medical School of Poland and the University of Southern California is well known, in which mice injected with propolis, before and after irradiation with c-rays, survived and their white blood cell count returned to normal. , while control mice (without propolis protection) died within 12 weeks.
Antioxidant action
Propolis neutralizes free radicals that destroy cells and DNA structure causing cell death, aging and carcinogenesis. The antioxidant activity of propolis is much greater than that of vitamin E. Furthermore, the antioxidant activity of propolis thanks to flavonoids binds oxygen free radicals.
Anesthetic action
Its anesthetic properties are due to its volatile oils (essential oils) and it is recommended for local anesthetic action (eg insect bites).
Antiparasitic action
Propolis is effective in combating parasites such as hair follicles, trypanosomes, etc. This action is due to the inhibition of their protein synthesis.