Nature is arranged very wisely - for a long time a person could do without pharmacological preparations, maintaining and restoring his health solely with what Mother Earth gave him.

All kinds of herbs, roots and other natural substances coped with the most severe viruses and bacteria, relieved fever, helped with fever and intestinal disorders.

One of these “wells of health” is propolis, a natural substance that is not only rich in vitamins and minerals to support life, but also has truly magical medicinal properties.

What is propolis? Short course in natural science

A natural product of beekeeping, which is called bee glue or propolis, is a kind of resinous sticky substance that is obtained by mixing beeswax and saliva with the natural juice of natural sources - trees, leaves, flowers, buds, etc. Propolis is used by insects as a kind of putty, with which they close up all the cracks and holes in their hive, making it less susceptible to winds and temperature changes.

However, recent studies in the field of beekeeping have shown that bees survive well in hives unprotected by propolis during the winter. So why do insects need this life-giving substance? The answer lies in the antibacterial and protective properties of the substance:

1. Bee glue prevents pathogens from entering the hive, inhibits fungus growth and disinfects surfaces.
2. Although bees are extremely clean, they are not always able to completely clean their hive. The corpses of small rodents that accidentally got into the hive are hermetically packed in a kind of propolis cocoon, thereby preventing the processes of decay. As a result, the decomposing body is simply mummified and will not become an object of infection and an unpleasant odor inside the hive.
3. Naturally, the adhesive structure strengthens the foundation of the hive, reduces vibration and makes it more durable.

Most often, propolis has a yellow-brown color, but this characteristic may vary depending on the natural component. So, there is bee glue in dark red, black, milky and even green shades. Only one thing remains unchanged - its unique composition. Mostly propolis is a combination of the following ingredients:

• natural resins;
• wax;
• vegetable balms;
• pollen;
• essential oils;
• lipophilic acaricide.

Under normal conditions, the physical properties of propolis remain unchanged: it is a viscous sticky mass. However, at low temperatures, it quickly hardens, after which it can be cut or broken into small pieces for storage.

properties of propolis. Compound

An unsurpassed doctor, the whole pharmacy in one bottle, a home doctor ... No matter how people call bee glue! And all thanks to the unique composition, which is the guarantor of its healing abilities. Depending on the characteristics of insects and their place of residence, propolis can include about 50 different components, but the amount of vitamins, mineral complexes and other useful ingredients remains at a consistently high level. This healing product contains:

• provitamin A;
• vitamins of group B, C, E;
• manganese;
• iron;
• silicon;
• zinc;
• calcium;
• phosphorus;
• magnesium;
• amino acids;
• organic acids (coumaric, coffee, cinnamon);
• a nicotinic acid;
• benzoic acid;
• flavonoids.

It is thanks to such a balanced natural composition that propolis has simply unique healing properties: it is used as an immunomodulatory, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antiviral agent, it is considered one of the best medicines for many ailments and helps to cope with beriberi and loss of strength.

Propolis: medicinal properties

Medicinal possibilities of bee glue have found their application not only in alternative medicine - this substance is recommended by many clinical doctors: gynecologists, otorhinolaryngologists, dermatologists, pediatricians, etc. Such versatility and popularity of this substance in medicine has a simple explanation: the health benefits of propolis are truly invaluable. This effect is achieved through a combination of the following properties:

• antitoxic,
• antibacterial,
• dermatoplastic,
• anti-inflammatory,
• wound healing,
• disinfectant,
• immunomodulatory,
• protective,
• antioxidant.

Propolis in its pure form or as water tinctures has a tonic and tonic effect. It is able to relieve fatigue, stimulate energy production and, as it were, awaken a “second wind”. In addition, many studies confirm that regular use of bee glue in any available form significantly reduces the first signs of aging of the body, improves metabolism and keeps the body in good shape, despite the passport age. This effect is provided by numerous antioxidants that protect against the harmful effects of the environment, cleanse the body of toxins and toxins and awaken internal reserves. A rich vitamin cocktail complements the rejuvenating effect.

In addition, propolis significantly reduces the severity of stress, has a calming effect and suppresses the level of anxiety. Thanks to this, a person more easily endures stressful situations, copes with unexpected outbursts of emotions and controls his impulses. And since most diseases are in one way or another connected with a shattered nervous system, this effect is really valuable, especially for residents of modern megacities, most of whose everyday lives are spent in psychological stress.

Propolis, the use of which is especially important during the season of illness, does an excellent job of destroying pathogenic bacteria, among which are:

• flu virus,
• herpes virus,
• tuberculosis bacillus,
• Candida
• fungi and yeast
• chickenpox virus, etc.

At the same time, unlike pharmacological antibiotics, only pathogenic viruses and bacteria fall under the action of propolis - nothing threatens the microorganisms that form the normal microflora of a person. This means that after treatment with bee glue, dysbacteriosis and other problems associated with a violation of microflora do not threaten you.

Despite the fact that the composition of propolis varies depending on the area, its antiviral and antibacterial properties remain at a consistently high level. This activity is achieved due to the high percentage of flavonoids, which are considered one of the best natural remedies for colds and flu. And although propolis is considered to be a medicine, there will be no harm if it is used for preventive purposes, especially at the peak of the disease - this way you can protect yourself from unpleasant symptoms and maintain health and vigor.

Who is not destined to be treated with bee glue? List of contraindications

Thinking about who and how to take propolis, it would be useful to familiarize yourself with the list of restrictions regarding this “home doctor”. This substance has a natural formula, which means it has a safe and non-toxic composition, but there are exceptions to any rule: you should not discount the individual characteristics of each person.

In what cases it is necessary to refuse propolis?

1. With allergic reactions to bee products, coniferous extracts, poplar fluff and pollen of flowering plants. In one concentration or another, all these substances can be part of bee glue, which means they can cause hypersensitivity in an allergic person.
2. With poor blood clotting, as well as before surgical interventions. Propolis can slow down the formation of platelets and, as a result, blood clotting. With an initially low SC, it is better not to take risks, especially on the eve of operations - it would be wise to abandon propolis, replacing it with other useful products of natural origin.
3. During lactation (if the baby is allergic). If a child is prone to allergic reactions from birth, bee glue will have to be abandoned during feeding so as not to provoke additional exacerbations in the baby.

That, perhaps, is all that should be taken into account before using this healing product. Assessing propolis, the medicinal properties and contraindications of which cannot be compared, we can conclude that this remedy is a unique healer, in most cases it brings only one benefit to the body.

Propolis: application

Knowing the beneficial properties of bee glue, it is easy to assume that its use is recommended for many diseases. Indeed, in addition to the expected colds, the use of propolis is indicated in the presence of the following diagnoses:

1. Arterial hypertension. The extracts that make up this bee product inhibit the production of a special enzyme and thereby reduce blood pressure.
2. Gastric ulcer. Since propolis has a wound healing and anti-inflammatory effect, when it enters the stomach, it soothes the mucous membrane, relieves unpleasant symptoms and promotes the speedy healing of the ulcer.
3. Diseases of the musculoskeletal system. Caffeic acid, which is found in excess in bee glue, inhibits the process of destruction of bone tissue, restores its density and increases resistance to external influences.
4. Allergic reactions. The substances contained in the bee "medicine" act as antihistamines, suppressing allergy symptoms.
5. Food poisoning. Propolis is able to quickly and delicately cleanse the body of toxins that caused poisoning, relieve symptoms of intoxication and restore normal microflora.
6. Skin defects: ulcers, warts, burns, fungus, etc. Bee glue cleanses the skin, restores its integrity and promotes rapid healing of even the most serious damage.
7. Gynecological abnormalities: thrush, vaginal herpes, endometriosis, etc. Propolis in the composition of ointments or suppositories is an effective remedy against "female" diseases of an infectious and inflammatory nature. At the same time, the substance is safe even during pregnancy (in the absence of contraindications).

This list is not complete, since propolis will be useful in one way or another for almost all diseases. It is prescribed as an adjuvant therapy for diabetes, hepatitis and even oncology.

How to take propolis?

You can use propolis as you like - make water and oil tinctures, ointments, creams, and even chew it in its pure form like chewing gum. However, the most convenient form for patients of all ages is still considered an aqueous tincture. To prepare it, it is enough to chop a small amount of bee product with a knife and boil it in a water bath for 10 minutes, after adding ½ cup of boiled water.

Propolis oil is prepared no more difficult. Grinding in the same way 50 g of propolis, you should mix it with 300 g of melted butter and, slightly warming it in a water bath, stir the product until the wax settles on the bottom. Thus, the healing components will get into the oil, and the wax will not interfere with application to the skin. This composition can be used as an ointment in the presence of skin diseases, cracks, ulcers and eczema, ingested for stomach problems and rubbed into painful places.

To summarize: the benefits of propolis for the body

Propolis is a substance unique in its composition and healing effect, which simply has no equal in nature. Using it as a medicine or prophylactic, you can preserve and increase health, put off old age on the back burner, remain strong, calm and balanced in any stressful situation, be full of energy and strength even after a tiring day at work and never get acquainted with depression. No pill in the world can replace this bee-given source of longevity and prosperity. Therefore, you should not run to the pharmacy at the first sign of illness - everything that is necessary for recovery has already been donated by nature, it remains only to properly dispose of this gift.

Propolis is a resinous substance produced during the activity of bees. This product, like honey, is made on the basis of plant elements. It has a number of useful qualities, due to which it has found wide application in medicine.

What is propolis and what is the origin of the product?

Propolis is the second most demanded product after honey, produced by bees. This substance has a thick consistency with a brown or green color. Propolis is used by bees for technical purposes.

For a long period, scientists could not determine the chemical composition and formula of the substance. For this reason, there was no consensus about the production of propolis. Experts in the field of studying bees have put forward three theories that answer the question of the origin of propolis:

• according to the first theory, this substance is based on the resin collected by bees, which occurs on the bark and buds of poplar, birch, willow, chestnut, as well as a number of coniferous and deciduous plants;
• the second theory involves the production of propolis when bees process pollen;
• the third theory did not find many followers, and existed as an assumption that propolis is produced by processing other plant products, not pollen, by bees.

German scientists held to the theory that bees collect and bring propolis resin in the same way as pollen, but unload in a different way.

There is still no consensus on the origin of propolis. The theory linking the production of this substance with the collection of resin secreted from the bark and buds of plants has been rejected. This decision is due to the fact that bees produce propolis annually, and the resin on the kidneys and bark remains for a short period.

But later, a number of experts proved that propolis cannot be formed from pollen. Studies were also conducted that showed that it contains birch, aspen and poplar elements. Thus, there was evidence that propolis was created on the basis of plant components.

You can learn more about the rules, features and conditions for self-collecting propolis by watching this video:

The composition of propolis

Propolis does not have a single composition. It depends on:

• what plants were used to collect resources;
• in what state were the bees at the time of collection;
• What time of year was the substance produced?

For a long period it was believed that propolis was characterized by an inconsistent formula. But later, 16 classes of organic substances contained in this product were established. The composition also includes active biological elements, among which more than 100 variations are known. The most important of them are: polyphenols, alcohols and aldehydes.

As a percentage, propolis includes:

• resins and pollen balm (50-60%);
• wax added by bees (30%);
• various variants of plant substances with individual properties (10%).

Despite the fact that propolis is not made from pollen, the content of this component in it reaches almost 5%.

Components in the first two categories are present in any propolis. They are responsible for the viscous consistency of the product, due to which it received the name "bee glue". The components in the last category are the least studied. Scientists are still discovering new substances in propolis that were not known before. Many of them are natural antibiotics.

Bee glue has strong antibacterial properties, the action of which is ensured by the acids present in it:

• ferulic (decrease in bacterial growth);
• benzoic (inhibition of the development of pathogenic microbes);
• other phenolic acids that have an astringent, choleretic, diuretic and anti-inflammatory effect.

Most of the antibacterial properties of bee glue come from essential oils. Pinocembrin is responsible for antifungal functions. Caffeic ester has similar capabilities.

Propolis contains almost the entire volume of chemical elements necessary for a person. There is a high percentage of calcium. The product includes vitamins: B1, B2, B6, C, E, H, P. It has one of the highest levels of flavonoids. Just like other products made by bees, propolis contains enzymes. These elements enter the substance in two ways: they are formed from the secretion of bee glands, then they are added to the resin, and they are supplied by the trees from which the resource was collected.

The number of amino acids in propolis varies from 8 to 17. Propolis containing sugar, fatty acids and oils in large volumes is considered more useful for treatment.

For medicine, the most important properties of propolis, which allow to destroy harmful bacteria. This substance effectively fights microorganisms that are harmful to human health. Propolis helps with the treatment of:

• tubercle bacillus;
• influenza virus;
• trichomonas;
• herpes virus;
• candidiasis;
• fungal diseases;
• hepatitis A.

Propolis destroys and removes harmful bacteria from the body, but it does not adversely affect the human microflora. Propolis is one of the few substances with antibiotic properties that do not cause dysbacteriosis.

Among the useful functions of propolis are:

• disinfection from bacteria, viruses and fungi in the treatment of chronic diseases;
• stabilization of vascular walls and capillaries, improving blood circulation;
• elimination of inflammation, reduction of edema, decrease in the permeability of the walls of blood vessels, and pain in places that were affected by the infection;
• supplying the body with nutrients and vitamins;
• pain reduction;
• supply of vitamins providing an antioxidant effect;
• strengthening immunity;
• improvement of metabolism in the body;
• prevention and treatment of tumors.

Propolis can also be used in the absence of health problems for the purpose of prevention. It prevents the occurrence of viral infections in humans. The advantage of propolis over other drugs is that microorganisms do not develop resistance to it with prolonged use. This feature is associated with the chemical composition of the substance with the content of elements of various plants, each of which has its own protective qualities.

If propolis is used in conjunction with antibiotics, it enhances their capabilities.

Scope of application

Propolis is effective for:

• stomach ulcer- taking oils and alcohol tinctures enhances the effect of other drugs, relieves inflammation, reduces pain, accelerates healing;
• helicobacter- the use of water and alcohol tinctures based on propolis helps to destroy bacteria that provoke the development of gastrointestinal diseases;
• gastritis - the use of pure propolis, or as tinctures, helps to reduce the manifestation of symptoms of the disease;
• nail fungus- the use of infusions in an external way eliminates itching and inflammation, inhibits the development of the fungus, due to which the diseased nail is gradually replaced by a healthy one;
• pancreatitis - the combined use of alcohol tincture with medicines helps to improve the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, and relieve inflammation of the pancreas;
• hemorrhoids- suppositories, ointments and microclysters, which include propolis, help to eliminate the disease;
• sinusitis- tinctures, drops and inhalations with propolis treat the disease due to the antibiotic effect;
• gastroduodenitis- the use of tincture eliminates inflammation, prevents the development of irritation, providing healing;
• liver diseases- accelerates the recovery of cells without harming the body (treatment is carried out only in conjunction with other medicines);
• gum disease- chewing and applying pure propolis eliminates bleeding, unpleasant odor, inflammation, harmful bacteria;
• bronchitis- the use of tinctures, inhalations and chewing pure propolis relieves inflammation of the respiratory system, alleviates the symptoms of the disease, speeds up the treatment;
• prostatitis - the use of suppositories, which contain propolis, helps to eliminate the disease;
• endometriosis- It is recommended to use tinctures and special candles.
• bowel diseases- propolis relieves inflammation, restores damaged tissues, accelerates treatment when used together with other medicines;
• sore throat- alcohol tincture or rinse solution with propolis relieves irritation in the throat, improves immunity;
• acne- the use of special plates soaked in propolis tincture to the affected areas, or the use of ointments reduces the manifestation of symptoms.

How to use propolis correctly?

Propolis is widely distributed both in traditional medicine and in the official one. In the pharmacy you can buy a number of drugs, which include propolis. Despite this, it is believed that folk remedies are more effective for treatment.

Release form

Propolis is contained in 11 medicines available for purchase in pharmacies:

• Propolis (alcohol solution) with 20% content of the active ingredient for disinfection of the oral cavity, treatment of the respiratory and gastrointestinal tract.
  
  
• - aerosol for the treatment of various diseases of the oral cavity.
  
  
• - an ointment intended for the treatment and prevention of vascular diseases, atherosclerosis, osteochondrosis.
  
  
• - cream for the treatment of skin diseases and injuries (including burns and frostbite).
  
  
• - a drug for the treatment of mucous membranes, pain relief and strengthening the walls of blood vessels.
  
  
• - a remedy for external use to eliminate inflammation and treat skin diseases (including chronic ones).
  
  

Despite the absence of toxic effects on the body, the listed drugs should be used strictly on the advice of doctors.

Homemade Propolis Treatment Recipes

Propolis in its pure form is considered the most useful. This method of use involves chewing the product. If you just swallow it, the effect is much lower. For treatment, it is necessary to chew or dissolve propolis for a quarter of an hour. A similar method of application helps to treat infections of the oral cavity, colds.

Propolis is swallowed in the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases accompanied by inflammatory processes. In this case, the substance is taken three times a day. The volume of the product for one dose is 5 grams.

In the presence of rheumatic pains, pure unprepared propolis can be applied to the sore spot.

For preventive purposes, propolis is mixed with honey in a ratio of 1 to 4, and taken once a day before bedtime. The volume of one dose is 1 teaspoon. This procedure strengthens the immune system, so it is recommended in the autumn and spring seasons.

As an analogue for the treatment of diseases of the oral cavity, rinses can be performed. To do this, propolis is diluted with water in a ratio of 1 to 10, and slightly warmed up. The resulting substance poses no risk if accidentally swallowed.

Alcohol tincture of propolis can be used both internally and externally. It detoxifies, relieves inflammation, and promotes overall health. The medicine is prepared according to the following scheme:

• 1 liter of 95% alcohol and 200 grams of crushed propolis are mixed in a glass container;
• the substance is placed in a dark and warm place;
• tincture can be used after two weeks.

With external exposure, the substance treats skin diseases and festering wounds. Internal use is recommended in the treatment of colds. 1 teaspoon of tincture diluted with 3-4 tablespoons of water, and taken 1 hour before meals.

Inhalation

Inhalation with propolis helps to treat sore throat, runny nose, flu, bronchitis, and other colds. To prepare inhalation you will need:

• mix in a container with an enamel coating 300 milliliters of water, 50 grams of propolis, 40 grams of wax;
• put the mixture in a water bath;
• breathe vapors from the substance for no longer than a quarter of an hour.

To obtain the effect, the duration of the course of treatment is 10 days. This method also improves the condition in tuberculosis.

The advantage of propolis is that after an hour of boiling, it retains useful elements.

Ointment

Propolis-based ointment is used exclusively externally. To prepare this medicine, the following recipe is used:

• 70 grams of vaseline, 20 grams of lanolin, and 15 grams of propolis are placed in a container with an enamelled surface;
• the container is lowered into water with boiling water, where a steam bath is arranged for it for 10 minutes;
• the mixture is filtered with a two-layer gauze, after which it is left to solidify.

The ointment is applied to diseased areas in diseases of the skin and mucous membranes, heals wounds and cuts, reduces pain and accelerates recovery from burns and frostbite.

Propolis is a resinous sticky substance, it is formed in the bee organism during the processing of sticky substances collected from tree buds. A unique product, which has found the widest application in medicine, is obtained in the body of a bee under the influence of enzymes. Bees use it for their own purposes - they seal cracks in the hives with them, creating a special microclimate there. Essential oils contained in propolis serve as protection against pathogens.

The level of value depends mainly on the environment in which the hives were located. Propolis becomes even more useful if there are many trees nearby. But, if the hives are not far from the city, bees, as a starting material, can collect oil paint, industrial resins. Accordingly, such a product is even dangerous, unlike the previous one.

Propolis is collected by scraping the walls of the hives. Every year, each hive accumulates about 100 grams, or even more, of this useful substance.

How to choose

When buying propolis, be sure to consider its color, which should be yellow-brown, brown-dark, and sometimes even green. The smell is slightly specific, resinous, but fragrant. The consistency of propolis can be different: freshly harvested - soft and elastic, like plasticine, and standing - harder and more fragile, but even with time it does not lose its healing properties. The density of propolis directly depends on the temperature of its environment, respectively, the warmer, the softer it is and vice versa. The taste of a quality product should be bitter, slightly burning.

How to store

It is necessary to store propolis only in a dry, dark, clean place. The required temperature is not more than 25 ° C.

Reflection in culture

It is assumed that most likely the name comes from the word " propolis» having Greek roots and meaning - glue, seal. In ancient times, propolis, or as it was called in the old days - " black wax”, which has a huge number of healing properties, was used in its natural form.

In ancient Egypt, propolis was used not only for consumption, but also for embalming mummies. Handwritten sources have kept a record that propolis was also widely used in Rome and Ancient Greece.

Useful properties of propolis

Composition and presence of nutrients

Useful substances of propolis are stored for a very long time, even after heat treatment. The composition of propolis includes:

• flavonoids - biologically active substances with wound healing and antimicrobial effects;
• resins, essential oils, wax - also have antimicrobial and antiviral properties;
• organic acids (cinnamic, benzoic) - can reduce pain and kill bacteria;
• terpenes - carbohydrates that are part of various essential oils, have pronounced antifungal properties;
• tannins or tannins - have an astringent, anti-inflammatory effect, restore tissues;
• amino acids - the main element in the construction of animal, vegetable proteins, among them: leucine, tryptophan, cystine, methionine, arginine, histidine, tyrosine, lilysine, alanine;
• vitamins A, groups B, C, E, P - actively influence the metabolic processes in the body;
• minerals that make up human tissue cells: magnesium, cobalt, sodium, potassium, calcium, sulfur, phosphorus, zinc, iron, manganese, silicon, selenium, copper, fluorine and others;
• essential oils.

Medicinal and beneficial properties

Propolis has an incredibly wide range of medicinal and beneficial properties. The main ones are bacteriostatic and bactericidal. It inhibits activity, and also kills a rather large range of all kinds of microorganisms, including viruses, tubercle bacillus, Trichomonas, candidiasis, fungi, hepatitis, influenza viruses. It is worth noting that the intestinal microflora does not suffer, and you should not be afraid of dysbacteriosis. Both alcohol solution and aqueous propolis have this property.

In the 19th century, scientists discovered that almost complete sterility reigns in a healthy bee hive, which is facilitated by propolis. It inhibits the growth of viruses and prevents the re-development of a viral infection. Simultaneous intake of propolis with antibiotics enhances their effect. But there is no such effect in combination with chloramphenicol and penicillins.

Propolis affects not only harmful microorganisms, but also phagocytosis, enhancing it. Phagocytosis is the process of removing foreign material from the body with the help of phagocytes - special cells. This contributes to less poisoning, toxicity. Even the same dysbacteriosis can be equated with poisoning, and propolis in this case performs a wide range of tasks. It also increases immunity, the level of gamma globulins.

Propolis is considered an excellent pain reliever, especially in an alcohol solution. It is used in medicine as a good local anesthetic:

• with damage to the stomach;
• in the treatment of diseases of the gums, oral cavity, teeth (rinsing, applying plates);
• with otitis media (instill an aqueous, alcohol solution);
• for burns, eye injuries (instill only an aqueous solution);
• in the treatment of frostbite, burns, wounds (apply applications of whole propolis or moistened wipes).

Pain relief begins 5-10 minutes after the application of propolis. And it can last from 45 minutes to two hours.

Propolis promotes the establishment of blood coagulation processes. This is of particular importance during the prevention and treatment of complications after heart attacks and strokes, in the complex treatment and prevention of varicose veins, since in such conditions blood clotting is very often increased, which threatens with many complications. Clotting also increases with age, therefore, as a preventive measure, propolis after 50 years is useful for almost everyone.

Propolis strengthens the walls of capillaries for bleeding from the gums and nose, cuts, wounds, bruises, minor abrasions. It is also able to increase the natural permeability of the skin - to enhance the skin penetration of drugs. Therefore, propolis can be safely used to enhance the effect of other medicinal preparations.

He also cures suppuration, abscesses, promotes rapid resorption.

Propolis helps reduce itching in psoriasis, after bites, burns and fungal diseases, has a dermatoplastic effect, helps restore mucous membranes that cover many organs, and prevents the development of scars.

It is also known about the antitumor and antioxidant properties of propolis. It takes part in limiting the tumor process, normalizing the processes of respiration at the cellular level, in cleansing cell membranes, and stabilizing the reproduction of cells in our body. Studies of the Perm Medical Academy have established that it is possible to use an aqueous solution of propolis without interruption for five years.

Propolis is also used for colitis, chronic constipation, and large doses suppress intestinal activity in cases of diarrhea.

Examples of the use of propolis

Alcohol concentrate prepared from 100 grams of crushed propolis, which must be filled with 350 grams of 90% alcohol. Within five days, the mixture should be infused in a warm place and in a tightly closed glass container. It is advisable to shake the jar every day for 10 minutes. Before use, the solution should be filtered and diluted to the desired concentration with distilled water.

oil solution prepared from one teaspoon of crushed propolis and 100 ml of vegetable oil, the mixture must be heated for 30 minutes in a water bath. After the mass becomes homogeneous, strain it and use it for external use.

In cosmetology

Propolis and its antiseptic action is used not only in medicine, but also in cosmetology. Masks and creams with propolis for skin prone to acne, boils, acne - have a wide spectrum of action. It is also used in creams as a preservative, because it has a great advantage over synthetic preservatives - propolis is also a bioactive substance with antioxidant and regenerating properties, and essential oils give cosmetics their fragrance.

Propolis is included in the composition as the main component in such cosmetics as hand, face, foot creams, shower gels, lotions, shampoos, etc. Products with propolis in different price categories are produced by various companies, especially those that are focused on natural cosmetics.

Dangerous properties of propolis

Despite the fact that the beneficial properties of propolis are extensive, there are always people who have contraindications, and they must definitely beware of taking large doses of this healing product. Propolis is very allergenic - this should be taken into account by people prone to allergies to bee products.

The main contraindications to the continuation of the use of propolis are: severe itching, fever, burning, general weakness, headache. Propolis is also contraindicated in diseases of the biliary tract and liver, pancreatitis, nephrolithiasis.

Learn about the interesting properties of propolis and its areas of application from the presented video.

Everyone knows that bees are engaged in the manufacture of honey, but this is not the only product that is produced as a result of the activity of insects. In addition to honey, there is also wax, perga, propolis and royal jelly. Propolis can be considered the most popular product after honey, which is actively used in the treatment of many diseases. But only few people know what propolis treats and how to use it correctly. What are its medicinal properties and contraindications?

What is propolis

Propolis is a sticky substance that the bees themselves collect from the buds of trees, bring and put in the hive, adding wax, pollen to it and enriching it with useful enzymes.

Bees cover the gaps in their hive with propolis to protect it from viruses and various pathogens. If suddenly another insect gets into the hive, then its bees first bite, and then embalm using propolis. It can stay in the hive for a long time and not decompose.

Propolis is a building material of bees, which contains resins, balms, essential oils, wax, pollen and aromatic substances.

Propolis can be of different colors: greenish, gray, brown or reddish. If it is stored for a long time, it may be black.

This bee product is very useful for the human body. It smells good and tasty, reminiscent of honey, because it contains pollen from fragrant herbs and resinous greens. But how to use propolis correctly so that it brings the maximum benefit to a person?

Useful properties of propolis

Propolis is not yet a fully studied substance, so the whole range of its effects on the body has not been clarified, but it is already known that it has the following properties:

• disinfectants;
• antibacterial;
• antitoxic;
• anti-inflammatory;
• dermoplastic;
• antioxidant;
• immunomodulatory.

Due to the fact that propolis has a disinfectant effect, it helps to destroy pathogens and destroys toxins. It inhibits the activity of bacteria and viruses, helps slow down the growth of some of their species. In addition, this product has the ability to neutralize poisons released by decaying cells, accelerates the regeneration and healing of tissues. It is believed that propolis has an anesthetic effect, but this fact has not been officially confirmed.

Useful composition of propolis

It is important to know not only whether it is possible to use propolis inside, but also how it is useful for the body. It contains a huge amount of trace elements that are simply necessary for the proper development and functioning of the body. Propolis contains:

• magnesium is an essential element for the functioning of the heart and organs of the digestive system;
• potassium - supports the genitourinary system, normalizes intestinal motility, helps the brain to function;
• sodium - promotes vasodilation, maintains the correct water-salt balance, is responsible for the functioning of the kidneys;
• iron - helps the thyroid gland to produce hormones in the right amount, strengthens the immune system, gives the skin a fresh and healthy color;
• zinc - helps the body fight viruses and pathogens that get inside;
• manganese - indispensable for the proper functioning of the nervous system;
• copper - takes an active part in the synthesis of hemoglobin, affects the pigmentation of the skin and hair;
• cobalt - helps activates the growth of red blood cells, supports the pancreas;
• Phosphorus is indispensable for maintaining good condition of teeth and bones, supports the functioning of the heart, is responsible for muscle function and cell growth.

Can you use propolis? It is simply necessary, because in addition to the microelements described above, its composition also contains other equally important for the proper operation of all internal systems of the human body: aluminum, fluorine, tin, antimony, strontium and others. All of them play an important role in the work of each of the organs.

Of the minerals, the leading place is occupied by calcium, which is responsible for the process of blood clotting, prevents the formation of blood clots. The strength of bones and teeth depends on the amount of this element. In addition, it is calcium that is responsible for the functioning of the thyroid and adrenal glands.

How to use propolis in its pure form? And just chew it, because it contains the whole group of vitamin B, as well as others: A, C, E, H and R. It also contains amino acids essential for the functioning of the body, including valine, glycine, asparagine and others .

Under what diseases and how to use propolis correctly in order to get the maximum amount of nutrients and strengthen your health?

Propolis: what diseases helps?

For many years, traditional healers have been actively using the product of the activity of bees to treat numerous ailments. They know exactly how to use propolis correctly so that it has its beneficial effect on the body and helps to get rid of the symptoms and the disease itself without consequences. And it helps with such diseases:

1. With stomach ulcers and gastritis. Propolis cannot completely cure an ulcer, but it can relieve inflammation and enrich the body with vitamins. It relieves pain well, removes the feeling of nausea and helps to speed up the regeneration process.
2. Myoma of the uterus. Officially, this method is not supported by doctors, but it certainly will not harm the body. You can use propolis in gynecology in the form of tinctures or suppositories that are inserted into the vagina.
3. Fungal infections. Due to its bactericidal and bacteriostatic properties, propolis can relieve itching and inflammation, and also prevents the further spread of the fungus. As a result of the treatment of the fungus with propolis (how to use, we will tell further), the diseased nail is replaced by a healthy and strong plate.
4. Propolis is excellent at fighting Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium that settles in the stomach and causes peptic ulcer. It is enough to use propolis tincture - and the bacterium dies.
5. Due to the healing properties of propolis, it easily copes with the inflammatory process in the pancreas, restores the digestive system.
6. This type of vital activity of bees helps with sinusitis, colds.
7. The use of suppositories, ointments and microclysters with propolis helps to effectively cope with the symptoms of hemorrhoids. They contribute to the resorption of hemorrhoids.
8. Propolis extract is an excellent catalyst for the restoration of damaged liver cells. Propolis does not help with all liver diseases, but as an adjuvant it can be used, it will not get worse.
9. Men over 40 often complain about problems with male power, and this is due to diseases of the prostate gland. Propolis can help here too.
10. The bee product perfectly copes with intestinal inflammation, helps to restore damaged cells.

Due to its unique properties, the bee product can become an aid in the treatment of many diseases. But it is important to know how to use propolis correctly in order to get rid of diseases and strengthen the immune system.

Propolis treatment: recipes

The uniqueness of the bee product lies in the fact that a variety of products can be prepared from it: tinctures, aqueous extracts, ointments, pastes, oils, tablets, candles and others. It can be used for inhalations, compresses, baths, rinses. Sometimes they even chew it.

There are many recipes for preparing propolis, but so far none of them have received a quality certificate. Therefore, before using it to treat a particular disease, it is better to consult a doctor. It is important not only to know what propolis treats and how to use it, but also to learn how to cleanse it of excess impurities before using it as a remedy. The cooking procedure will stretch, but in the end, the product for treatment will turn out to be more effective. Purified bee glue is softer.

Propolis treatment of peptic ulcer and gastritis

An ulcer is an injury to the lining of the stomach. In order to effectively cure the disease, it is necessary to find out the cause that adversely affects the mucous membrane. An ulcer appears in cases where the factors of aggression prevail over the factors of defense of the body. As a result, the mucous layer is destroyed, and propolis helps to create additional protection. It helps cells recover. Propolis tincture can be taken orally, it destroys bacteria that cause disease, helps to regenerate epithelial tissue.

Patients who suffer from peptic ulcer are advised to take 60 drops of 30% propolis tincture, which is diluted in a glass of milk. Drink the remedy three times a day before meals. Some experts recommend using an oil or water extract in the treatment. Warm drinks with honey have proven their effectiveness. The improvement is noticeable already in the first days after the start of the reception. Nausea is less common, pain decreases, acidity normalizes, ulcers scar.

How to use propolis for gastritis? In the treatment, you can use tincture, decoction with the addition of medicinal herbs or tincture.

Propolis oil can be prepared independently. To do this, you need to take 10 parts of an alcohol solution and 1 part of any oil, for example, sea buckthorn, olive or cream. The composition must be boiled and passed through cheesecloth, rolled up in several layers. Store in the refrigerator, take 30 drops with milk for 21 days before each meal.

And you can cook propolis with herbs like this: take a tablespoon of fennel fruits, licorice root, linden flowers and mint, add three glasses of water, boil for 20 minutes and leave for 3 hours, add three tablespoons of propolis honey to the broth. Take 1/2 cup before each meal.

Is it possible to use propolis tincture inside? It is possible and necessary for all diseases that affect the digestive system.

Fibroids treatment

Propolis acts on tumor cells, stopping their development. Myoma develops from the wall of the reproductive organ. Benign formations are dangerous because they can easily develop into oncology. Propolis effectively copes with pain and uterine bleeding.

Take alcohol or water tincture three times a day, 10 drops for 10 days. They also put tampons in the vagina, which are pre-moistened in the therapeutic mixture. To prepare it, you need to mix 40 grams of butter and propolis and add 120 g of sunflower oil.

Treatment with propolis for uterine fibroids is a good alternative to hormone therapy and surgery.

Propolis for pancreatitis

Propolis, which has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, will help get rid of inflammation of the pancreas.

It is necessary to take 1/2 teaspoon of alcohol tincture of propolis, diluted in 1/2 cup of water. The tincture gradually restores the damaged pancreatic mucosa and accelerates cell regeneration. Also, warm milk at night with a tablespoon of propolis honey will give a positive effect.

How to use propolis inside correctly? It is better to do this before meals to prevent rejection of food.

Propolis for hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids is a disease that causes a "collision" of the circulatory and digestive systems. Inflamed veins put pressure on the rectum, which leads to its dysfunction. Using propolis in such situations, it is possible to quickly remove inflammation, normalize digestion and blood flow.

Propolis can be used to make suppositories that have an anesthetic effect, relieve swelling, itching and burning, help wounds and cracks heal faster. Often, hemorrhoids occur in women during childbearing, and during this period most of the drugs are contraindicated for them, so propolis suppositories are an excellent solution to the problem.

Candles can be made at home or purchased at a pharmacy. Also, for the treatment of hemorrhoids, you can make baths with an aqueous solution of propolis.

Propolis for liver diseases

The liver is difficult to treat, but propolis copes with the task. It must be taken orally. How to use propolis tincture if there are problems with the liver?

You can use a 20% alcohol tincture or an aqueous extract. If the patient has jaundice, then drip 20 drops of tincture into a glass of water and drink for a week. After that, the dosage is increased by 10 drops and they drink again for a week and continue until complete recovery, but you can not increase the dose by more than 40 drops.

Chaga with propolis helps well, which is prepared as follows: mix 30 g of crushed propolis with 0.5 kg of birch fungus, place in a clay container, pour a liter of water and leave to infuse for 12 hours, strain. Take 3 tbsp. l. before every meal.

Propolis in the treatment of liver diseases has an anti-inflammatory and antitoxic effect.

Propolis for colds

Every person in his life suffered from bronchitis, acute respiratory infections, influenza. During the illness, I had to take a lot of drugs, which then negatively affect the work of the intestines.

With bronchitis, propolis canvas helps well. This is a piece of cloth that beekeepers put under the hive cover to protect it from drafts. This piece of fabric is well disinfected by bees, because they treat everything inside the hive with propolis.

When the tissue touches the human body, it heats up, propolis softens, has a beneficial effect on the epidermis and fills the air with a pleasant aroma, while the respiratory tract is inhaled. It is necessary to apply it on the chest and back in the area of ​​the bronchi. The procedure lasts about 40 minutes. You can store the canvas for about 4 years, wrapped in polyethylene.

A cough in a person can occur due to various reasons. Infections, a foreign body in the respiratory tract, effects on receptors, and others. If pharyngitis is diagnosed, then inhalations and rinses with propolis help well. In the treatment of tonsillitis and flu, chewing propolis gives a positive effect.

For rinsing, you can use this recipe: a spoonful of St. John's wort is poured with 250 ml of hot water, infused for about an hour, filtered and 60 drops of propolis infused with alcohol are added.

How to use propolis tincture for influenza or acute respiratory infections? Medicinal milk, which is best drunk warm, helps well. Milk in combination with propolis helps the therapeutic composition to be better absorbed and relieve symptoms faster. Such a remedy perfectly protects against spring-autumn exacerbations of viral diseases. It is enough for children to add a couple of drops of tincture to warm milk before going to bed.

Any cold is easier to treat if you approach the problem comprehensively. You can not only take medicines inside, but also use them externally. Preparations based on propolis help stop the inflammatory process, relieve pain, and kill the infection that has affected the respiratory tract. You can treat the throat with a propolis-based spray, do inhalations and rinses, apply compresses, and chew. You can make lollipops with propolis at home, just put a couple of drops of tincture on a piece of sugar and the medicine for treating the throat is ready. It is already known how to use propolis tincture on alcohol, and you can still eat healthy honey with propolis.

Bee honey and propolis: the most useful mixture

At first glance, it may seem that it is completely absurd to mix honey and propolis, because these two components are already so beneficial for the body. But in folk medicine, there are many recipes in which these two products of bee activity are present.

This composition contains a large amount of carbohydrates and proteins, but there are no fats. And this is a huge plus for those who are afraid to spoil their forms or want to get rid of extra pounds.

This healthy mixture also contains glucose and fructose, which are responsible for the energy of the body and constantly support it. And this means that using honey with propolis, you can constantly keep the body in good shape, the central nervous system stabilizes, due to which insomnia and stress disappear. But this is all very important for modern man.

Have we already told you how to use pure propolis? But little is known about propolis honey, it can be bought ready-made on the market or cooked at home. To prepare it, you need 10 g of propolis and 90 g of honey of any kind. All components are sent to a container and placed in a water bath, you should wait until the propolis begins to soften. Mix well and strain the mixture through cheesecloth.

Honey with propolis can be consumed in the morning on an empty stomach, adding a tablespoon to a glass of water. Thus, you can support the immune system and tone the body.

Contraindications to the use of propolis

It is important to know how to consume propolis in solid form, but it is also necessary to understand the contraindications so as not to harm the body. Pediatricians do not advise giving this product of bee activity to children under 3 years old, and all because their internal systems are not yet fully developed, and propolis can cause an allergic reaction. But this ban does not apply to those children who do not have manifestations of allergies, because the bee product can benefit a weakened immune system.

People who have contraindications to the use of alcoholic beverages? In this case, they simply need to opt for an aqueous extract.

• acute liver disease;
• oncology;
• alcohol intolerance;
• allergic bronchial asthma.

There are no special contraindications to the use of propolis, but a consultation with a doctor will not be superfluous.

In the article, we told how to use honey with propolis and other components, now it is up to the patient himself, who will comply with the dosage and course of therapy. Only in this case, propolis will bring positive results and cure a lot of diseases without consequences.

There is no beekeeper who does not know about propolis, one of the products that can be obtained from the hive. But many people who are far from beekeeping, due to the qualities and characteristics of this substance, are also forced to look for it. And for some people, propolis can be an affordable solution to the problem, but they simply do not know what it is, and how it can be used in everyday life and ... treatment. Let's try to fill this gap.

What is propolis?

It is essentially a resinous substance produced by bees and is often referred to as "bee glue" or "black wax". The consistency is similar to wax and at positive temperatures it is easily deformed, while maintaining overall integrity. The smell is quite pleasant, fresh propolis smells like needles, grass and leaves at the same time, if you set it on fire, then the aroma of smoke is associated with church incense. Its color can vary from dark green and yellowish brown to brown and dark brown. It is edible, but those who dare to try it in its pure form will be taken aback by its burning bitter taste.

Over time, stickiness and plasticity are lost, the substance hardens and darkens (up to black). If you follow the storage rules - keep propolis tightly closed, dry, in a dark place and at a temperature of 15-22 degrees, then its main properties remain for at least 10 years.

Until now, the process of formation of propolis has not been precisely established. Initially, it was assumed that the bond (another name for propolis) is sticky substances processed by special secretory enzymes of bees, collected by insects from the buds of a number of trees - alder, poplar, chestnut, and so on. Indeed, worker bees often bring glue on their paws, and may even nibble on bits of tree buds. All this is then processed and used. However, over time, it was noticed that only the amount of propolis present in the hive, but not its very presence, depends on the presence of suitable trees within reach.

Taking into account the fact that propolis always contains pollen, the version of German researchers (Veck, Philipp, Küstenmacher and others) about the internal origin of bee glue has the right to life. Adherents of this theory believe that it is a remnant of the first phase of pollen processing. But after all, in the hives located closer to the trees listed above, there is always more propolis. It turns out that everyone is right! And propolis can be brought from outside, and created inside. It remains to be understood why the bond is so important for the bees themselves, if they are ready not only to collect it, but also to make it on their own!

Moreover, in the modern world, with a lack of pollen and tree buds (as well as in the case of excessive sampling of propolis by the beekeeper), bees embark on a trick. Cases have been noted when insects carried tar, plasticine, resin and other materials into the hive, with which they are trying to replace the bond. Therefore, the beekeeper is simply obliged to control the degree of sufficiency of natural raw materials if he does not want to reduce the quality of the product. And the buyer should be attentive to the choice of the seller (supplier) of propolis.

Why is there propolis in the hive?

Propolis is most noticeable in the form of a film on the walls of the hive and on the frames, as well as in the form of sagging in front of the entrance. By the way, just this served as the basis for the Greek name of the substance: "pro" - in front, "polis" - a city-fortress. Therefore, it is easy to understand its explicit functions - sealing connections and narrowing (closing in winter) of the entrance to protect the inside of the hive from external influences and intrusions. But bee glue also has other uses:

Bees add uzu to the wax used in the construction of honeycombs, which increases their plasticity and strength. Depending on the region, the proportion of propolis content in wax is 5-10 percent.

Ready honeycombs are always “washed” with propolis before laying, thereby polishing, cleaning and disinfecting them - it contains acids and other substances that destroy microorganisms. By the way, the same property allowed the bees to arrange a kind of “disinfection gateway” - each bee that arrived in the hive is simply forced to “wash itself” by crawling along the notch covered with a knot

Bee glue is also used to fix all the moving parts of the internal device of the hive, so novice beekeepers often perceive this substance only as an annoying hindrance during maintenance and collection.

When animals of such a large size enter the hive that the bees are not able to bear them after killing, for example, mice, the corpses also “roll up” in propolis. Such an operation allows you not to be afraid of harmful decomposition products of organic matter - the animal turns into a mummy.

Thus, there are practically no places in the hive where propolis would not be used, while in an accessible form (where the beekeeper can remove propolis without harming the bees), one swarm per season can “give” from 100 to 300 grams of bonds.

How long have people known about propolis?

People learn a lot of the properties of substances thanks to animals and insects, and sometimes they don’t even think about it, but simply in imitation they begin to look for similar applications. Judging by the history of the use of "black wax", then everything happened to him exactly like that ...

Ancient Egypt

Of the oldest mentions of the bond, it is worth highlighting the deciphered ancient Egyptian records. According to the data obtained, the priests, who at that time were the people closest to medicine and chemistry, used in their activities a sticky substance extracted from bee hives along with honey and wax.

True, the therapeutic use of propolis was limited to applying bandages with a bond on wounds and burns, and often the patient only got worse due to an incorrectly selected amount (and, possibly, due to an allergic reaction). But much more common was the use peeped at by bees - the mummification of the dead. Many modern Egyptologists have to thank, among other things, propolis, because it was he and several other components that provided the work for these lovers to dig deeper into mummies.

Ancient Greece

The nation of warriors and thinkers also did not pay attention to this product. And also, basically, I used it as an antiseptic. It is believed that the use of propolis in everyday life - for varnishing furniture, sealing dishes when storing food and other similar operations, the Greeks owe to Aristotle. At one time, this prospector studied the life of bees, and even built a transparent hive, but in this way he was able to find out only one thing - insects very quickly cover the inner surfaces of the walls with a dark substance.

ancient iran

The outstanding philosopher and physician Abu Ali ibn Sina, who is better known in Europe under the name of Avicenna, was also interested in bee glue in his research. In one of his works, The Canon of Medicine, the mud of beehives (dirty wax) is mentioned. Judging by the description, we are talking about propolis, and if we take into account the words “cleans a little and softens a lot”, then we can roughly imagine the main use of propolis according to Avicenna - the treatment of the same wounds and burns, as well as the removal of calluses.

Medieval Georgia

Judging by the fact that almost every Georgian medical book of the 10th-12th centuries mentions the use of propolis, this substance was well known in the Caucasus, both among professional doctors and among the common people. It was added to the means for the prevention and treatment of teeth, wax-propolis cakes were placed on the chest with a cold, and toys and tools were wiped with a clean knot, again they removed corns with it and sealed some containers.

Europe

Everything that has been said above (except for mummification) will also apply to Europe. But I would like to single out one of the options - it is not officially confirmed, but there are versions that Antonio Stradivari used propolis to create his unique varnishes, and that this is one of the components that helped him surpass his teacher Nicolo Amati.

Like it or not, everything was difficult to prove, if at all possible. But, in fact, any nation at all times has found use for propolis, and for the most part, the methods of use are similar. This is not surprising, because in its general composition this substance, for example from the Eurasian continent, will be very close to bee glue collected in Africa, America or Australia. Well, the Slavs, in whom even many surnames bear the imprint of a connection with beekeeping (Pasechnik, Bortnik, and so on), would be completely ashamed not to know about propolis, its properties and ... composition.

What is propolis made of?

However, it’s not a shame not to know the chemical composition of propolis, especially considering that even modern chemical laboratories do not allow you to get a thorough picture. There is nothing to be surprised here - propolis as a whole is not a single substance and simply cannot have a standardized chemical formula.

Organic substances in it are 16 classes at once, divided into 4 groups. About two hundred possible compounds are known, while in only one sample there can be up to one and a half hundred of them. It is this multiplicity, among other things, that is the basis for such unique properties of propolis. But more on that later, but for now let's try to derive the "arithmetic mean".

Approximately half of the mass of the sample is resinous components. These include aromatic acids, their esters and flavonoids (and the latter are represented by five different compounds, which is quite unique in itself). A third of the composition is already fatty acids, alcohols and their esters. 10 percent of the "average" bee glue consists of essential and aromatic oils.

5% are various substances, among which the most common are minerals, vitamins (most of all B vitamins), various sugars, steroids, as well as lactones, ketones and quinones. No less than 5 percent (up to 10-12%) of any sample of propolis will consist of proteins and amino acids. A number of amino acids are simply indispensable for humans, and the ability to obtain them in a fairly simple form is also unique.

If we talk about the trace elements contained in the product, it is much easier to list the missing ones from those that a person needs. Potassium, magnesium, iron, manganese, zinc, silicon and many others, in general, almost the entire periodic table, are present here. And yet, propolis is one of the potentially largest suppliers of calcium to the human body - anyone who watches advertising knows the benefits of this mineral for homo sapiens.

If we recall the time of the discovery of propolis, then it will be all the more surprising that scientists continue to find previously unknown components in it. More recently, substances such as caffeic acid ester and pinocembrin, the strongest antifungal agents, have been isolated from the base sample. According to the degree of effectiveness of analogues among other antifungal drugs of natural origin, these compounds do not exist.

All this together in various combinations endows propolis with a number of qualities and properties, both characteristic of other beekeeping products, as well as other substances, and completely different from them. Let's try to highlight the main ones.

Propolis properties

Physical

Initially, soft propolis is quite difficult to choose from the hive, but due to the ability to change the structure when temperatures change, experienced beekeepers do not have problems with collection. Knowing that when the temperature drops below +15, propolis begins to harden and crumbles easily, they simply wait for the right weather conditions and scrape off (with a special grating-grater or a suitable scraper) bee glue from the walls of the hive and the honeycomb frames.

The higher the temperature, the more plastic the propolis is, and when the threshold of 80-105 degrees is reached, it can even turn into a semi-liquid state. At the same time, one of the main unique features of this product, as an organic substance, is its high resistance to high temperatures. Even if you boil "black wax" for an hour, it will still retain most of its qualities. Thus, its use makes it possible to combine heating, which is problematic for other substances, while maintaining the quality required in a particular situation.

At the same time, its own chemical resistance does not become a hindrance in cases where, due to the nature of the application, propolis needs to be dissolved. Propolis dissolves without problems in gasoline, methyl and ethyl alcohol. A little more difficult, but still quite effective, is the dissolution of propolis in acetic acid and ammonia. If necessary, and with proper pre-treatment, it will be possible to dissolve it in both water and oil (vegetable and animal).

Medicinal and pharmacological properties of propolis

Again, all the properties of propolis can hardly be called thoroughly studied, but a wide range of effects on various microorganisms is undeniable. At the same time, it is worth remembering the high content of sensitizers (esters of caffeic acids) that can cause contact dermatitis. In addition, many compounds are allergens.

There is plenty of evidence that bee glue can be used as an anesthetic. But at the same time, there are many cases when propolis did not have any analgesic effect when applied. And this despite the fact that the fact of exceeding the analgesic power of propolis (0-25% alcohol solution) before novocaine by 5 times has been scientifically proven! Perhaps the reason lies precisely in the multiplicity and variability of the composition.

Antibacterial properties are undoubted, as well as the ability to slow down and even stop inflammatory processes. Although in the latter case, individual perception, the degree of development of the inflammatory process, the correct dosage and use case will be of great importance. About the same how, when and in what form propolis can be used will be our next chapter ...

Possible uses of propolis

If we forget about the old options - disinfection of objects (tools), sealing containers, varnishing wooden surfaces, and so on, then in modern life propolis is most often used in traditional and folk medicine. It is easy to judge how wide the range of application of bee glue can be by a large number of dosage forms.

Whole propolis

This form does not require any special preparations. The main thing here is that the product is natural (poor-quality fakes are, unfortunately, very common), free from unnecessary impurities. It is usually used heated (softened) or ground into a powder and wetted with water.

Wounds, burns, frostbite are treated with whole propolis applications. In small quantities, it is possible to apply to the gums with their diseases and problems of the oral cavity. Unrefined propolis with a high wax content is used in the treatment of sinusitis and bronchitis by applying heated cakes to problem areas. Warts, calluses, corns and cornifications are removed by tying small cakes of bee glue to them (the greatest efficiency is achieved by first softening the object of exposure and covering the bandage with an impermeable film).

It is made from crushed, waxed propolis. Prepared propolis is poured with alcohol for 12 hours, after which it is mixed with melted vaseline (it is possible to use vaseline and lanolin mixed in half). The mixture is boiled at 70-80 degrees for ten minutes and filtered.

Propolis ointment is used externally, in much the same way as the whole product. But this form is more convenient for storage and use, especially when it comes to places where applying (holding) a bandage is problematic. In addition, the ointment is much faster absorbed by the skin, and useful substances get to their destination in a larger volume. An example of a more convenient use of the ointment is the treatment of hemorrhoids, boils in the inguinal and axillary region, and so on. Propolis ointment is also used in the treatment of skin diseases - dermatitis and eczema.

Oil

It is made in the same way as the ointment, but instead of vaseline, butter is used. Moreover, the concentration of propolis here is much lower - 1:6, 1:8 or 1:10, since this form is taken inside.

Its main purpose is the treatment of damage to the gastric mucosa (gastritis), and to some extent it also helps with problems of other organs of the digestive tract.

Alcohol tincture of propolis

20 grams of propolis is poured into 80 ml. 96% alcohol and insist a week in a sealed container, shaking occasionally. After a week, the tincture needs to be filtered through paper, and it is ready for use. It can be taken orally (drops) or used to prepare compresses (diluted with water).

As an option, it is possible to prepare alcohol with a higher concentration - 3:10. The principle of preparation is the same.

In its pure form, such forms are practically not used, but alcohol tincture of propolis diluted with distilled water is one of the most effective folk remedies in the treatment of otitis media. Highly diluted tinctures can be used for washing mucous membranes, wounds, rinsing the mouth.

Propolis decoction

Prepared at the rate of 1 part of propolis to 10 parts of water. Propolis is crushed, poured into a bowl and poured with the right amount of water, then put in a water bath. Shaking the pot frequently, boil for at least an hour. Prepare immediately before use, as when stored in this form, propolis loses its qualities.

This form is most often used to treat burns and eye injuries. A small concentration and the absence of aggressive components will guarantee that the mucous membrane and cornea will not be irritated, and propolis itself will accelerate healing. A decoction is also used for rinsing the mouth in diseases of the oral cavity, in particular gums and teeth, as well as in the treatment of inflammation of the ear. In the latter case, as an option, water can be replaced by vegetable oil.

Milk

Fresh milk is brought to 70-80 degrees and crushed propolis is poured into it (50-100 grams per 1 liter). With constant stirring (it is advisable to use a wooden spoon), we keep the milk in this temperature regime for 10 minutes. Cool, remove the formed wax layer and filter.

The resulting milk, although it has an impartial brown color and a bitter taste, helps with many health problems. In particular, with problems with the stomach, digestive and intestinal tract.

Inhalations

Both steam - with melting of propolis in water, and burning of a product are possible.

Usually used for chronic bronchitis, laryngitis, pneumonia. According to unconfirmed data (anecdotal evidence), propolis inhalations can slow down and even stop the course of tuberculosis and silicosis.

Please note that all of the above options for using bee glue are more related to traditional medicine, and are not exact recipes or guidelines for treatment!

In general, official medicine treats propolis quite cautiously. Recognizing the antibacterial properties of this product, propolis is used as a component of many ointments. There are also special therapeutic toothpastes and shampoos, which contain propolis. At the same time, the chemical multiplicity makes it difficult to use it more widely, and it must be admitted with good reason - in addition to many useful components, there are also substances that are not needed for a person, and sometimes even dangerous. Medical doctors from science desire more advanced devices that could effectively separate propolis into components, filtering out everything unnecessary and choosing only useful components.

It is impossible not to recall apitherapy - treatment with bee stings and bee products. Its effectiveness has also been questioned for a long time by many traditional doctors. But the effectiveness of the use of apitherapy, at least in the treatment of gout and rheumatism, is already a scientifically proven fact. And propolis is not the last element among the components of this type of treatment.

By and large, propolis is a natural antibiotic, and therefore its use is appropriate. And finishing the conversation about the options for the use of propolis, it is worth noting one more thing. Perhaps, in terms of the speed of impact, labor intensity and cost of production, bee glue loses to synthetic preparations, but its use makes it possible to eliminate the addiction factor!

A synthetic antibiotic has a stable formula and therefore is unchanged. Bacteria, on the other hand, easily adapt to such drugs, therefore, with prolonged use of a synthetic antibiotic, the degree of its effect on pathogens decreases. And everything would be fine if the antibiotic was taken directly, but the modern food industry supplies a very large amount of synthetics to the human body. For example, in the form of antibiotic residues contained in fish, animal and poultry meat, as well as other products grown on large farms, where antibiotics are used both in growing and processing products. So it turns out that the human body gets used to certain synthetic products even when it seems to not accept them!

In the case of propolis, the same multiplicity of composition is an insurmountable barrier for microorganisms on the way to addiction. Therefore, the effectiveness of the product in a month or even a year will be as high as today or a couple of years ago. But this does not mean that everyone should immediately stop taking any synthetic antibiotics and switch to treatment exclusively with propolis and its derivatives.

Firstly, there are plenty of diseases that well-known natural medicines, including propolis, succumb to at least, and at most can lead to complications. Secondly, the high activity of propolis components and the personal qualities of the body simply do not allow the use of this product in treatment. And even if the prescription of the medicine before you was "approved" by many generations of your (and even more so, neighboring or friendly) ancestors, it is not a fact that it is not contraindicated for you.

So a consultation with a doctor before you start using propolis in treatment is a must!

And only a doctor can authorize the treatment, determine its method, and prescribe the dosage and duration. And this is where our story about propolis can end, because it remains only to list the options in which its use is prohibited or undesirable.

Contraindications

Approximately 3-4% of people are initially allergic to bee products. As many more may develop it from long-term use, from large single doses, or from mixing incompatible products. Propolis is not toxic, but can cause serious allergic reactions, including anaphylactic shock and suffocation. So for obvious allergy sufferers, it is strictly prohibited, and people with a predisposition to allergies and (or) high susceptibility should beware.

The effects of bee glue on the liver, biliary tract, pancreas and kidneys are still poorly understood. Therefore, in diseases of the listed organs, propolis, and the preparations in which it is contained, doctors try not to prescribe. You yourself should also remember this fact, and warn doctors about such problems in time.

When any neoplasms appear, neither they nor any other disease can be treated with propolis until a consultation with a doctor and a detailed analysis. Although propolis is used in the treatment of cancer, when trying to influence an unknown neoplasm, it is possible to activate its growth.

If you have no contraindications to the use of propolis and containing preparations, and the doctor has prescribed treatment, then you have only two mandatory actions:

1. Buy quality propolis

2. Get well