Propolis - Natural Antibiotic

obmar · Site Admin Joined: 14 Apr 2006 Posts: 5697

The first of its kind in Canada!

Jane O'Rourke
Environmental Program Coordinator New Brunswick Lung Association
November 2005

t is said that Propolis is the most natural antibiotic man has ever discovered. The remarkable thing about this statement is the fact that this discovery took place some 2000 years ago. A lot of people probably haven't even heard about Propolis, and yet, ancient herbal books prescribed Propolis for numerous complaints. The bactericidal qualities of this medicine have been known since the beginning of written history.

Honeybees
(photo: B.Dingens)

History

The use of Propolis in popular medicine goes back all the way to ancient times. Egyptians, Greeks and Romans reported the use of Propolis for its general healing qualities and for the cure of some lesions of the skin. Since the 12th century in Europe, folk remedy has attributed an important place to Propolis for certain preparations for external use. However, it has only been in the last twenty years that scientists have been able to prove that Propolis is as active and important as our forefathers thought.

Recognized by science

Propolis is now considered an important part of dietetics and a natural cure by the World Health Organization. Its popularity is ever increasing, due to its many possibilities. The concentrations of flavonoids seem to be responsible for the great antibiotic effects of Propolis. Flavonoids possess many potent curative effects. Forty-one of these substances have been recognized by science.

What does it do

Flavonoids stimulate hair growth, and improve the circulation of the blood. They also stimulate elimination of urine, bile secretion, and endocrine secretion. It is a well known fact that endocrine secretion, from places such as the thymus, the thyroid gland, the pancreas and the adrenals has a beneficial effect on the organism in general. Flavonoids are not only antibacterial substances, they are also active for the treatment of ulcers, rheumatism, flu and cold syndromes, irritated stomachs and certain breathing problems.

The same products are also beneficial for some chronic ailments, such as stress and joint problems. This gives an extra dimension to the performance of the product. Propolis, by nature, gives us a most powerful and versatile complement to supplement our food intake. All over the world, physicians have been astonished by the power of Propolis. We are only at the beginning of the story because the healing possibilities of Propolis seem to be unlimited.

Origin of Propolis

Our honeybees collect resins as a basic material on the buds of poplars, birches, pine trees etc. After the resin is chewed by the honeybee, and with the addition of saliva, other substances are formed. The finished product is called Propolis. Propolis is of vital importance for the survival of the bees. Not only does it protect them against diseases, but also against climatic changes, such as wind and cold.

Propolis products
(photo: Bij Dingens)

Propolis consists of more
than 100 substances

Propolis is composed of 50-55% resin and balms, 30% wax, 5% fixed substances such as clump, greases, amino acids, organic acids, composed ethers of alcohol, elements of spores and microelements such as iron, copper manganese, zinc, aminocids, phytoncides, and antibiotics, plus a high content of vitamins B,E,C,H and P, as well as pro-vitamin A. Pollens make up 4 to 10% in the composition of the product.

Remedies

Propolis is an age-old remedy that has been receiving a lot of attention lately. It is used extensively in the now defunct Warsaw Pact countries and Propolis is well known in the Netherlands, France, Germany and Belgium. It is not yet as well known overseas.

The following problems treated by Propolis showed satisfactory improvements all over the world:

* Acne
* Asthma
* Arthritis
* Burns
* Boils
* Bleeding gums
* Bedsores and Blisters
* Burning tongues
* Callused feet
* Canker sores (aphtha)
* Common cold
* Corns
* Diaper rash
* Diarrhea
* Eczema
* Flu
* Female complaints
* Gastritis
* Gout
* Hay-fever
* Hair loss
* Insect bites
* Inflammation of the nasal passage
* Inflammation of the gums
* Inflammation of the ears
* Inflammation of the prostate gland
* Moles
* Psoriasis
* Sore throats
* Swollen glands
* Stomach ulcers
* Toothaches
* Tennis elbow
* Warts

For more information on Propolis products,
or for a list of interesting books to read on this subject,
email us at: propolis@nb.sympatico.ca

obmar · Site Admin Joined: 14 Apr 2006 Posts: 5697

PROPOLIS
Powerful, Natural Antibiotic

What is Propolis?
Honeybees gather propolis, a resin, from tree bark and leaves. They combine this resin with nectar, creating a mix of wax, pollen and bee bread. They then use this substance to seal their hives, protecting it from outside contaminants. They also use propolis at the entrance to the hive to sterilize themselves as they come and go.

Ancient Healer
While propolis is just now enjoying a rediscovery, its usefulness can be traced back to the time of Hippocrates, who used it to heal sores and ulcers, internally and externally. Through the ages historical documents record its use. Culpepper's Complete Herbal refers to ointments of Propolis for inflammation and fever. In WWII, it was used by the Soviet Union to treat battle wounds. Proppolis is an excellent natural antibiotic and immune system booster.

Nature's Penicillin
Synthetic antibiotics carry with them side effects - propolis, a natural antibiotic, has no such side effects. Propolis has also been shown to fight bacterial strains that have become resistant to synthetic antibiotics.

Active Compounds
from "Bee Pollen, Royal Jelly, Propolis, and Honey," by Rita Elkins, M.A. Dr. K. Lund Aagaard who is considered a well qualified authority on propolis has said, "Nineteen substances of different chemical structure have been identified so far." These compounds include a number of substances which belong to the flavonoid family including betulene and isovanillin.

Vitmain and Mineral Content
from "Bee Pollen, Royal Jelly, Propolis, and Honey," by Rita Elkins, M.A.
According to researchers at the Second Leningrad Scientific Conference on the Application of Apiculture (bee culture) in Medicine, Bee Propolis is rich in:

* Vitmin A (carotene)
* Vitamin B1
* Vitamin B2
* Vitamin B3
* biotin
* an array of bioflavonoids
* albumin
* calcium
* magnesium
* iron
* zinc
* silica
* potassium
* phosphorus
* manganese
* cobalt
* copper

NOTE: Propolis contains 500 more bioflavonoids (vitamin P) than is found in oranges.

Except for vitamin K, Propolis has all the known vitamins. Of the fourteen minerals required by the body, Propolis contains them all with the exception of sulfur.

Propolis is comprised of 50 percent to 70 percent resins and balsams, 30 percent to 50 percent wax, 5 percent to 10 percent Bee Pollen and 10 percent essential oils.

Like Royal Jelly and Bee Pollen, Propolis also contains a number of unidentified compounds which work together synergistically to create a perfectly balanced, nutritive substance.

Amino Acids
from "Bee Pollen, Royal Jelly, Propolis, and Honey," by Rita Elkins, M.A.

Sixteen amino acids have been identified in Propolis.

Character:
from "Bee Pollen, Royal Jelly, Propolis, and Honey," by Rita Elkins, M.A.
antibacterial, antiviral, antibiotic, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant

Primary Applications
from "Bee Pollen, Royal Jelly, Propolis and Honey", by Rita Elkins, M.A.

* allergies
* bruises
* burns
* cancer
* herpes zoster
* fatigue
* sore throats
* nasal congestion
* respiratory ailments
* acne
* skin disorders
* sunburn
* shingles
* respiratory infections
* flu
* colds
* coughs
* ulcers
* wounds

Pleasant Valley Apiaries of Montana LLC
1-800-988-3750
FAX # (406) 858-2255

Pleasant Valley Apiaries of Montana LLC
10010 Lost Prairie Rd.
Marion, MT 59925
USA

Royal Jelly | Honey | Pollen | Propolis | Products | Soap | Order
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*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration.
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Last updated May 23, 2007
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obmar · Site Admin Joined: 14 Apr 2006 Posts: 5697

Medical Journals Document Value
of Bee Propolis, Honey and Royal Jelly

Copyright © 1995 by Jack Challem, The Nutrition Reporter™
All rights reserved.

When it comes to bee pollen, propolis, and royal jelly, people either seem to swear by them or swear at them.

Bee products epitomize everything that's right and wrong about natural foods and dietary supplements. For a lot of people, the concept of eating "beestuff" - other than honey - seems awfully strange. And while bee products have a faithful following, few people really understand why they work. Scientifically,that is.

Not surprisingly, physicians usually bristle at the thought of people popping bee pollen and propolis capsules. One doctor, almost 20 years ago, warned in a medical journal that patients shouldn't get "stung" by the miracle claims of bee pollen.

Even worse, advocates of bee products can often be their own worst enemies with wild cure-all claims of everything from arthritis to sexual impotence.

Bee products don't cure everything. But in a search of recent medical journal articles - most turned out to be from overseas - I found impressive documentation for propolis and honey as powerful, natural antibiotics. Amazingly, some doctors have even used honey-soaked gauze as wound dressings. And a few of the components of propolis and royal jelly even have anti-cancer properties.

As for allergies, bee pollen might help you the way it helped Sen. Tom Harkin (D-Iowa). But there's a dearth of medical journal reports on pollen, except to point out that it can cause dermatitis or anaphylactic shock.

Propolis

Bees create propolis by collecting a resinous sap from trees and then mixing it with wax back at the hive. They use this material much the way people use caulk: to seal their homes. Chemically, propolis is exceedingly complex and contains a rich variety of potent terpenes and benzoic, caffeic, cinnamic,and phenolic acids. It's also high in flavonoids, which by themselves may account for many of the benefits attributed to propolis-and some researchers refer to propolis as a type of flavonoid.

One of the most significant medical journal articles described how the caffeic acids in propolis and honey might prevent colon cancer, which kills some 60,000 Americans each year. Chinthalapally V. Rao, Ph.D., of the American health Foundation, Valhalla, N.Y., reported in Cancer Research (Sept.15,1993; 53:1482-8 Cool

that these caffeic acids prevented the formation of precancerous tissue in rats after they were exposed to cancer-causing chemicals.

Most medical articles, however, still point to the value of propolis as a powerful, natural antibiotic. That doesn't mean eating propolis will let you throw away your antibiotics - only that you may not need them quite as often.

Why would bees need substances with broad antibacterial and antiviral properties? Any beekeeper will tell you the answer. Bees are very susceptible to bacterial and viral infections, which can destroy hives the way the bubonic plague ravaged Europe in the 17th century.

Two medical journal articles document the activity of propolis specifically against Staphylococcus aureus, the bacterium that causes dangerous and often deadly surgical infections, blood poisoning, and a type of pneumonia. Five to 10 percent of all patients hospitalized in the United States develop such infections, and S. aureus has become resistant to all but one pharmaceutical antibiotic.

In a Chinese study, researchers found that extracts of propolis - specifically, sinapic, isoferulic, and caffeic acids - inhibited the growth of S. aureus (Qiao Z, China Journal of Chinese Materi Medica, Aug. 1991;16:481-2). A European study reported that ethanol extracts from propolis had a "marked synergistic effect" on the anti-staph activity of two antibiotics, streptomycin and cloxacillin, and a moderate effect on several others (Krol W, Arzneimittel-Forschung, May 1993;43:607-9).

Another scientific investigation discovered that propolis inhibited the activity of several streptococcal bacteria species that cause dental caries.Japanese researchers reported that propolis-fed laboratory fats had far fewer caries than those given a regular diet. Propolis protected specifically against Streptococcus mutans and several other strep species (Ikeno K, Caries research, 1991;25:347-51). These strep species are closely related to the germ that causes strep throat.

Propolis works against bacteria in several ways. One study reported that it prevented bacterial cell division and also broke down bacterial walls and cytoplasm, which is how some prescription antibiotics work (Takaisi-KikuniNB, Planta Medica, June 1994;60:222-7).

Perhaps more remarkable is that propolis acts against viruses, which antibiotics do not. A number of medical journal reports have discussed the role of propolisin fighting upper respiratory infections, such as those caused by the common cold and influenza viruses (Focht J, Arzneimittel-Forschung, Aug. 1993;43:921-3). Other investigators have reported that the cinnamic acid extracts of propolis prevent viruses from reproducing, but they worked best when used during the entire infection (Serkedjieva J, Journal of Natural Products, March 1992;55:294-302).

Underpinning many of the benefits of propolis is that some of its components,like the flavonoids and ethanols, function as antioxidant free-radical scavengers. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology (Jan. 1994;21:9-13)noted that some of the antioxidant phenols in propolis functioned similarly to vitamin E. In another article, researchers described that propolis had anti-inflammatory properties and that it could also prevent blood clots(Drugs Under Experimental & Clinical Research, 1993; 19:197-203).

Honey

Six medical journal articles over the past three years have also described the antibiotic properties of honey. A physician at the medical college in Maharashtra, India, recently explored the use of honey-soaked gauze to treat burn patients. The 40 patients treated with honey healed in about half the time - and with half the scar tissue - compared with patients treated by other means. (Subrahmanyam M, Burns, Aug. 1994;20:331-3).

A team of researchers from the department of surgery, University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria, reported that unprocessed honey "inhibited most of the fungi and bacteria" causing surgical and wound infections. In a remarkable conclusion in the journal Infection (Jul.- Aug. 1992;20:227-9),Dr. S. E. Efem and his colleagues wrote, "Honey is thus an ideal topical wound dressing agent in surgical infections, burns and wound infections."

Perhaps most remarkable is the effect of honey on Helicobacter pylori, the bacterium now known to cause gastric ulcers. Because honey has long been a folk remedy for dyspepsia, or stomach upset, a team of researchers from the University of Waikato, New Zealand, tested whether honey would have any benefit. Within three days, honey stopped the growth of H. pylori colonies obtained from patients.

Royal Jelly

Highly touted royal jelly, fed to the debutante larvae that grow into queen bees, contains a powerful antibacterial protein that Japanese researchers discovered and named royalisin. Rich in amino acids, royalisin is primarily effective against "Gram-positive" bacteria, which include staph and strep species (Fujiwara S, Journal of Biological Chemistry, July 5,1990;265:11333-7).

Like propolis, royal jelly also appears to have anti-tumor properties. Another team of Japanese researchers gave royal jelly to one of two groups of laboratory mice before transplanting different types of cancer cells in them. The royal jelly had no effect on the leukemia cells, but it had dramatic effects on sarcoma cells. The lifespan of the mice was extended by about one-fifth and tumor sizes were about half the size, compared with untreated mice,according to a report in the journal Nippon Yakurigaku Zasshji-Folia Pharmacologica Japonica (Feb. 1987;89:73-80).

In sum, we could learn a lesson from bees that eat honey and royal jelly, and seal their hives with propolis. By eating these bee products, we can preventively "innoculate" ourselves against many bacterial and viral infections - and maybe even reduce our risk of developing cancer.

So, in light of the scientific evidence, next time you hear someone ridicule bee propolis, royal jelly, and other products, just tell them to "buzz off."

This article originally appeared in the Natural Foods Merchandiser, published by New Hope Communications. The information provided by Jack Challem and The Nutrition Reporter™ newsletter is strictly educational and not intended as medical advice. For diagnosis and treatment, consult your physician.

obmar · Site Admin Joined: 14 Apr 2006 Posts: 5697

http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?s...t&pid=S1517-83822006000200002

Brazilian Journal of Microbiology
Print ISSN 1517-8382
Braz. J. Microbiol. vol.37 no.2 São Paulo Apr./June 2006

MEDICAL MICROBIOLOGY

Synergistic effect of propolis and antibiotics on the Salmonella Typhi

Efeito sinérgico da própolis e antibióticos sobre Salmonella Typhi

Ricardo de Oliveira OrsiI,*; José Maurício SforcinII; Silvia Regina Cunha FunariI; Ary Fernandes JuniorII; Vassya BankovaIII

IDepartamento de Produção e Exploração Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brasil
IIDepartamento de Microbiologia e Imunologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brasil
IIIInstitute of Organic Chemistry with Centre of Phytochemistry, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria

ABSTRACT

The goal of this work was to investigate a possible synergistic effect between ethanolic extracts of propolis from Brazil and Bulgaria and some antibiotics (Amoxicillin, Ampicillin and Cefalexin) against Salmonella Typhi. Brazilian and Bulgarian propolis showed an antibacterial action, but the sample from Bulgaria was shown to be more efficient. Both samples showed a similar synergistic effect with these antibiotics. One may conclude that the propolis samples show an important antibacterial action, as well as a synergistic effect with antibiotics against Salmonella Typhi.

Key words: propolis, antimicrobial activity, antibiotics, synergistic effect

RESUMO

O objetivo do presente trabalho foi investigar um possível efeito sinérgico entre extrato alcoólico de própolis do Brasil e Bulgária com alguns antibióticos (Amoxilina, Ampicilina e Cefalexina) utilizados contra Salmonella Typhi. Própolis do Brasil e Bulgária mostraram uma atividade antibacteriana, embora a amostra da Bulgária tenha sido mais eficiente. Ambas as amostras apresentaram um efeito sinérgico com os antibióticos estudados. Pode-se concluir que as amostras de própolis possuem atividade antibacteriana, bem como apresentam efeito sinérgico com antibióticos utilizados contra Salmonella Typhi.

Palavras-chave: própolis, atividade antibacteriana, antibióticos, efeito sinérgico

INTRODUCTION

Salmonella serovars are responsible for human diseases that range from mild gastroenteritis to host-disseminated enteric fever (12).

Bacterial drug resistance is an important world problem (1,23). Poppe et al. (14) verified that Salmonella serovars, isolated from food or infected animals, were resistant to several antibiotics. Lewin (9) and Stoner et al. (19) also reported an increased resistance of Salmonella serovars to several antimicrobial drugs.

Propolis is a resinous material produced by bees from plant buds and exudates, showing biological activities such as antibacterial (17). The chemical composition of propolis is very complex and is dependent upon the source plant. The main vegetal source of propolis in Botucatu, São Paulo State, Brazil, is Baccharis dracunculifolia DC., followed by Eucalyptus citriodora Hook and Araucaria angustifolia (Bert.) O. Kuntze (3). The brazilian propolis sample, collected in the Beekeeping Section of the University, was analysed by GC, GC-MS and TLC, revealing that its main components are phenolic compounds (flavonoids, aromatic acids, benzopyranes), di- and triterpenes, essential oils, among others. Seasonal variations in propolis composition are not significant and are predominantly quantitative (2,4,6).

In order to reduce the clinical doses of most antibiotic compounds because of their marked side effects, we investigated a possible synergistic effect of propolis with some antibiotics that act on the bacteria wall, reducing the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 3 widely-used antibiotics: Amoxicillin, Ampicillin and Cefalexin.

obmar · Site Admin Joined: 14 Apr 2006 Posts: 5697

Propolis:
Propolis A Remarkable, Natural Immune Stimulant

Nature has provided bees with a substance that keeps them and their hives free of germs, in spite of 40,000 to 60,000 bees being crammed into close quarters in the hive. This protective substance is called propolis, which is a name derived from two Greek words meaning defenses before a town. The bees place propolis near the opening of the hive to sterilize anything entering it; they also use propolis to embalm or mummify the carcasses of larger animals that have invaded the hive, but that are too large for the bees to remove. Propolis helps sterilize the hive to inhibit the spread of bacteria, viruses and fungi that would be a significant threat in such a humid, crowded environment.

Bees do not make propolis--they gather it from trees. Propolis is a mixture of many compounds including resins, vitamins, amino acids, minerals, high amounts of bioflavonoids, and the anti-bacterial substance galangin.(1)

Anti-Infective Properties of Propolis
Propolis has been used for wound-healing for thousands of years. During World Wars I and II, soldiers used propolis to prevent their wounds from becoming infected and to speed the healing process. The early research work on propolis was mostly done in Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union, consisting of highly technical laboratory studies as well as controlled clinical trials. Laboratory tests showed that propolis on its own is effective against over 20 kinds of bacteria.(1) Clinical studies from the former Soviet Union,(2) Romania,(3) and China,(4) demonstrated that propolis was effective against various kinds of bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. Dr. Kravcuk of Kiev found that propolis was effective against sore throats and dry coughs in 90% of 260 patients.(5) A recent study by Serkedjieva, et al, showed that the active ingredients in propolis significantly inhibited the Hong Kong flu virus.(6) Therefore, propolis might be a good agent to prevent and treat the common cold and flu. Recent studies also show that propolis is effective against the herpes simplex virus.(7, Cool

The antibacterial properties of propolis appear to be due to multiple mechanisms. Drs. Takaisi-Kikuni and Schilcher found that propolis: 1) inhibits bacterial growth by preventing cell division; 2) disorganizes bacterial cytoplasm, cell membranes, and cell walls; 3) causes partial bacteriolysis; and 4) inhibits protein synthesis.(9) No prescription antibiotic acts in so complex a manner as propolis. Additionally, a unique advantage of propolis is that it enhances the effectiveness of antibiotics such as penicillin and streptomycin.(1,10) The combination of propolis with antibiotics can reduce drug dosages, minimize drug side effects, and decrease chances of drug resistance.

Propolis and Immune Enhancement
Propolis also stimulates the bodys immune system. Dr. Remy Chauvin of Paris, France, comments, Propolis healing mechanism is due not only to its antibacterial properties and detoxifying effects, but also by increasing the defensive reaction of the organism. Propolis works by raising the bodys natural resistance to infections by stimulating ones own immune system.(11) Propolis significantly activates macrophages, which play an important role in infection prevention.(12) In addition, it can significantly inhibit lipoxygenase activity, thereby inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis.(13) Strehl, et al confirmed that propolis has anti-inflammatory effects.(14)

Propolis in the Prevention and Treatment of Cancer
One of the most exciting recent findings on propolis is its efficacy in cancer prevention and treatment. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), one of the active ingredients in propolis, has been shown to prevent cancer formation in animal models.(15) It also showed strong cancer inhibitory effects against several cancers.(16,17) Propolis inhibits cancer cell growth by increasing the process of apoptosis (programmed cell death, the process our body uses to get rid of old, useless cells).(18,19) Propolis can significantly decrease the heart toxicity of doxorubicin, a chemotherapeutic agent used in cancer treatment.(20)

Other Uses of Propolis
Dr. Franz K. Feiks of the Public Hospital at Klosterneuberg, in Austria, reported that propolis is also effective against ulcers. In a clinical study involving 294 patients, Dr. Feiks found that 90% of 108 ulcer patients given propolis were free of symptoms after two weeks, compared to only 55% of 186 conventionally treated patients.(21) Dr. Feiks also noticed that 70% of the propolis group obtained relief in three days, compared to only 10% of the group receiving conventional medication. Propolis also appears to be effective in the treatment of severe acne.(1)

Safety
No side effects have been reported for propolis. The LD50 (the dose causing half of the tested animals to die) for propolis is 7.34 g/Kg body weight in mice. Thats close to 50 gm of propolis for a 160 pound person.(22) Also, propolis is non-irritating,(22) and is thereby safe for topical use. Although a very small percentage of the population may be allergic to propolis, as Susan Smith Jones commented in her book Lets Live, Bee propolis has been around for 40 million years! Thats a reasonable testing period.(21)

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References:
1. Hill R. Propolis, The Natural Antibiotic. Thorsons, Wellingborough, England, 1977.

2. Tsarev NI, Petrik EV, Aleksandrova VI. Use of propolis in the treatment of local suppurative infection. Vestn Khir, 134 (5): 119-122, 1985.

3. Esanu V. Recent Advances in the chemotherapy of herpes virus infections. Virologie, 32 (1): 57-77, 1981.

4. Pang JF and Chen SS. Treatment of oral leukoplakia with propolis: Report of 45 cases. Chung Hsi I Chieh Ho Tsa Chih, 5 ( Cool

: 452-453 and 485-486, 1985.

5. Kravcuk P. Doctoral Dissertation. Kiev Univ., USSR, 1971.

6. Serkedjieva J, Manolova N, and Bankova V. Anti-influenza virus effect of some propolis constituents and their analogues (esters of substituted cinnamic acids). J. Natl. Prod., 55 (3): 294-302, 1992.

7. Amoros M, Lurton E, Boustie J, Girre L, Sauvager F, and Cormier M. Comparison of the anti-herpes simplex virus activities of propolis and 3-methyl -but-2-enyl caffeate. J. Natl. Prod., 57 (5): 644-647, 1994.

8. Dumitrescu M, E sanu, and Cri san I. The mechanisms of the antiherpetic action of aqueous propolis extracts. I. The antioxidant action on human fibroblast cultures. Rev. Roum. Virol., 43: 3-4 and 165-173, 1992.

9. Takaisi-Kikuni NB and Schilcher H. Electron microscopic and microcalorimetric investigations of the possible mechanism of the antibacterial action of a defined propolis provenance. Planta Med., 60 (3): 222-227, 1994.

10. Krol W, Schelleer S, Shani J, Pietsz G, and Czuba Z. Synergistic effect of ethanolic extract of propolis and antibiotics on the growth of staphylococcus aureus. Arzneimittelforschung, 43 (5): 607-609, 1993.

11. Churchill R. American Chiropractor, 34-38, January/February 1980.

12. Dim V, Ivanovska N, Bankova V, and Popov S. Immunomodulatory action of propolis: IV. Prophylactic activity against gram-negative infections and adjuvant effect of the water-soluble derivative. Vaccine, 10 (12): 817-823, 1992.

13. Sudina GF, Mirzoeva OK, Pushkareva MA, Korshunova GA, Sumbatyan NV, and Varfolomeev SD. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester as a lipoxygenase inhibitor with antioxidant properties. FEBS Lett., 329: 1-2, 21-24, 1993.

14. Strehl E, Volpert R, and Elstner EF. Biochemical activities of propolis -extracts. III. Inhibition of dihydrofolate reductase. Z Naturfosch [C], 49: 1-2, 39 -43, 1994.

15. Rao CV, Desai D, Kaul B, Amin S, and Reddy BS. Effect of caffeic acid esters on carcinogen-induced mutagenicity and human colon adenocarcinoma cell growth. Chem. Biol. Interact., 84 (3): 277-90, 1992.

16. Rao CV, Desai D, Rivenson A, Simi B, Amin S, and Reddy BS. Chemoprevention of colon carcinogenesis by phenylethyl-3-methylcaffeate. Cancer Res., 55 (11): 2310-2315, 1995.

17. Guarini L, Su ZZ, Zucker S, Lin J, Grunberger D, and Fisher PB. Growth inhibition and modulation of antigenic phenotype in human melanoma and glioblastoma multiform cells by caffecic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE). Cell Mol. Biol., 38 (5): 513-527, 1992.

18. Su ZZ, Lin J, Prewett M, Goldstein NI, and Fisher PB. Apoptosis www.es the selective toxicity of caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) toward oncogene -transformed rat embryo fibroblast cells. Anticancer Res., 15 (5B): 1841-1848, 1995.

19. Chiao C, Carothers AM, Grunberger D, Solomon G, Preston GA, and Barrett JC. Apoptosis and altered redox state induced by caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) in transformed rat fibroblast cells. Cancer Res., 55 (16): 3576-3583, 1995.

20. Chopra S, Pillai KK, Husain SZ, and Giri DK. Propolis protects against doxorubicin-induced myocardiopathy in rats. Exp. Mol. Pathol., 62 (3): 190-198, 1995.

21. Jones S. Lets Live. 112-118, 1979.

22. Arvouet-Grand A, Lejeune B, Bastide P, Pourrat A, Privat AM, and Legret P. Propolis extract. I. Acute toxicity and determination of acute primary cutaneous irritation index. J. Pharm. Belg., 48 (3): 165-170, 1993.

obmar · Site Admin Joined: 14 Apr 2006 Posts: 5697

Propolis:
Propolis A Remarkable, Natural Immune Stimulant

Nature has provided bees with a substance that keeps them and their hives free of germs, in spite of 40,000 to 60,000 bees being crammed into close quarters in the hive. This protective substance is called propolis, which is a name derived from two Greek words meaning defenses before a town. The bees place propolis near the opening of the hive to sterilize anything entering it; they also use propolis to embalm or mummify the carcasses of larger animals that have invaded the hive, but that are too large for the bees to remove. Propolis helps sterilize the hive to inhibit the spread of bacteria, viruses and fungi that would be a significant threat in such a humid, crowded environment.

Bees do not make propolis--they gather it from trees. Propolis is a mixture of many compounds including resins, vitamins, amino acids, minerals, high amounts of bioflavonoids, and the anti-bacterial substance galangin.(1)

Anti-Infective Properties of Propolis
Propolis has been used for wound-healing for thousands of years. During World Wars I and II, soldiers used propolis to prevent their wounds from becoming infected and to speed the healing process. The early research work on propolis was mostly done in Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union, consisting of highly technical laboratory studies as well as controlled clinical trials. Laboratory tests showed that propolis on its own is effective against over 20 kinds of bacteria.(1) Clinical studies from the former Soviet Union,(2) Romania,(3) and China,(4) demonstrated that propolis was effective against various kinds of bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. Dr. Kravcuk of Kiev found that propolis was effective against sore throats and dry coughs in 90% of 260 patients.(5) A recent study by Serkedjieva, et al, showed that the active ingredients in propolis significantly inhibited the Hong Kong flu virus.(6) Therefore, propolis might be a good agent to prevent and treat the common cold and flu. Recent studies also show that propolis is effective against the herpes simplex virus.(7, Cool

The antibacterial properties of propolis appear to be due to multiple mechanisms. Drs. Takaisi-Kikuni and Schilcher found that propolis: 1) inhibits bacterial growth by preventing cell division; 2) disorganizes bacterial cytoplasm, cell membranes, and cell walls; 3) causes partial bacteriolysis; and 4) inhibits protein synthesis.(9) No prescription antibiotic acts in so complex a manner as propolis. Additionally, a unique advantage of propolis is that it enhances the effectiveness of antibiotics such as penicillin and streptomycin.(1,10) The combination of propolis with antibiotics can reduce drug dosages, minimize drug side effects, and decrease chances of drug resistance.

Propolis and Immune Enhancement
Propolis also stimulates the bodys immune system. Dr. Remy Chauvin of Paris, France, comments, Propolis healing mechanism is due not only to its antibacterial properties and detoxifying effects, but also by increasing the defensive reaction of the organism. Propolis works by raising the bodys natural resistance to infections by stimulating ones own immune system.(11) Propolis significantly activates macrophages, which play an important role in infection prevention.(12) In addition, it can significantly inhibit lipoxygenase activity, thereby inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis.(13) Strehl, et al confirmed that propolis has anti-inflammatory effects.(14)

Propolis in the Prevention and Treatment of Cancer
One of the most exciting recent findings on propolis is its efficacy in cancer prevention and treatment. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), one of the active ingredients in propolis, has been shown to prevent cancer formation in animal models.(15) It also showed strong cancer inhibitory effects against several cancers.(16,17) Propolis inhibits cancer cell growth by increasing the process of apoptosis (programmed cell death, the process our body uses to get rid of old, useless cells).(18,19) Propolis can significantly decrease the heart toxicity of doxorubicin, a chemotherapeutic agent used in cancer treatment.(20)

Other Uses of Propolis
Dr. Franz K. Feiks of the Public Hospital at Klosterneuberg, in Austria, reported that propolis is also effective against ulcers. In a clinical study involving 294 patients, Dr. Feiks found that 90% of 108 ulcer patients given propolis were free of symptoms after two weeks, compared to only 55% of 186 conventionally treated patients.(21) Dr. Feiks also noticed that 70% of the propolis group obtained relief in three days, compared to only 10% of the group receiving conventional medication. Propolis also appears to be effective in the treatment of severe acne.(1)

Safety
No side effects have been reported for propolis. The LD50 (the dose causing half of the tested animals to die) for propolis is 7.34 g/Kg body weight in mice. Thats close to 50 gm of propolis for a 160 pound person.(22) Also, propolis is non-irritating,(22) and is thereby safe for topical use. Although a very small percentage of the population may be allergic to propolis, as Susan Smith Jones commented in her book Lets Live, Bee propolis has been around for 40 million years! Thats a reasonable testing period.(21)

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References:
1. Hill R. Propolis, The Natural Antibiotic. Thorsons, Wellingborough, England, 1977.

2. Tsarev NI, Petrik EV, Aleksandrova VI. Use of propolis in the treatment of local suppurative infection. Vestn Khir, 134 (5): 119-122, 1985.

3. Esanu V. Recent Advances in the chemotherapy of herpes virus infections. Virologie, 32 (1): 57-77, 1981.

4. Pang JF and Chen SS. Treatment of oral leukoplakia with propolis: Report of 45 cases. Chung Hsi I Chieh Ho Tsa Chih, 5 ( Cool

: 452-453 and 485-486, 1985.

5. Kravcuk P. Doctoral Dissertation. Kiev Univ., USSR, 1971.

6. Serkedjieva J, Manolova N, and Bankova V. Anti-influenza virus effect of some propolis constituents and their analogues (esters of substituted cinnamic acids). J. Natl. Prod., 55 (3): 294-302, 1992.

7. Amoros M, Lurton E, Boustie J, Girre L, Sauvager F, and Cormier M. Comparison of the anti-herpes simplex virus activities of propolis and 3-methyl -but-2-enyl caffeate. J. Natl. Prod., 57 (5): 644-647, 1994.

8. Dumitrescu M, E sanu, and Cri san I. The mechanisms of the antiherpetic action of aqueous propolis extracts. I. The antioxidant action on human fibroblast cultures. Rev. Roum. Virol., 43: 3-4 and 165-173, 1992.

9. Takaisi-Kikuni NB and Schilcher H. Electron microscopic and microcalorimetric investigations of the possible mechanism of the antibacterial action of a defined propolis provenance. Planta Med., 60 (3): 222-227, 1994.

10. Krol W, Schelleer S, Shani J, Pietsz G, and Czuba Z. Synergistic effect of ethanolic extract of propolis and antibiotics on the growth of staphylococcus aureus. Arzneimittelforschung, 43 (5): 607-609, 1993.

11. Churchill R. American Chiropractor, 34-38, January/February 1980.

12. Dim V, Ivanovska N, Bankova V, and Popov S. Immunomodulatory action of propolis: IV. Prophylactic activity against gram-negative infections and adjuvant effect of the water-soluble derivative. Vaccine, 10 (12): 817-823, 1992.

13. Sudina GF, Mirzoeva OK, Pushkareva MA, Korshunova GA, Sumbatyan NV, and Varfolomeev SD. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester as a lipoxygenase inhibitor with antioxidant properties. FEBS Lett., 329: 1-2, 21-24, 1993.

14. Strehl E, Volpert R, and Elstner EF. Biochemical activities of propolis -extracts. III. Inhibition of dihydrofolate reductase. Z Naturfosch [C], 49: 1-2, 39 -43, 1994.

15. Rao CV, Desai D, Kaul B, Amin S, and Reddy BS. Effect of caffeic acid esters on carcinogen-induced mutagenicity and human colon adenocarcinoma cell growth. Chem. Biol. Interact., 84 (3): 277-90, 1992.

16. Rao CV, Desai D, Rivenson A, Simi B, Amin S, and Reddy BS. Chemoprevention of colon carcinogenesis by phenylethyl-3-methylcaffeate. Cancer Res., 55 (11): 2310-2315, 1995.

17. Guarini L, Su ZZ, Zucker S, Lin J, Grunberger D, and Fisher PB. Growth inhibition and modulation of antigenic phenotype in human melanoma and glioblastoma multiform cells by caffecic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE). Cell Mol. Biol., 38 (5): 513-527, 1992.

18. Su ZZ, Lin J, Prewett M, Goldstein NI, and Fisher PB. Apoptosis www.es the selective toxicity of caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) toward oncogene -transformed rat embryo fibroblast cells. Anticancer Res., 15 (5B): 1841-1848, 1995.

19. Chiao C, Carothers AM, Grunberger D, Solomon G, Preston GA, and Barrett JC. Apoptosis and altered redox state induced by caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) in transformed rat fibroblast cells. Cancer Res., 55 (16): 3576-3583, 1995.

20. Chopra S, Pillai KK, Husain SZ, and Giri DK. Propolis protects against doxorubicin-induced myocardiopathy in rats. Exp. Mol. Pathol., 62 (3): 190-198, 1995.

21. Jones S. Lets Live. 112-118, 1979.

22. Arvouet-Grand A, Lejeune B, Bastide P, Pourrat A, Privat AM, and Legret P. Propolis extract. I. Acute toxicity and determination of acute primary cutaneous irritation index. J. Pharm. Belg., 48 (3): 165-170, 1993.

The Inquisitor · Joined: 17 Jun 2006 Posts: 772

Wow,

I've never heard of propolis.

That definitely looks like something that merits closer scrutiny.

obmar · Site Admin Joined: 14 Apr 2006 Posts: 5697

http://www.fluwikie.com/pmwiki.php?n=Consequences.Propolis

SUPPLEMENT/MEDICATION /COMPOUND NAME: Propolis

TRADE NAMES Bee Propolis (Twinlab, Rainbow Light, Nature’s Answer), Propolis Power (Nature’s Herbs).

USE: Potential to reduce TNF-a, speculative anti-viral effects

POTENTIAL BENEFIT:

A compound in propolis, CAPE “has been found to completely inhibit the activation of the nuclear transcription factor NF-Kappa B by tumor necrosis factor (TNF), as well as by other pro-inflammatory agents. The inhibition of NF-Kappa B activation may provide the molecular basis for its immunomodulatory, anticarcinogenic, anti-inflammatory and antiviral activities.” SOURCE

LINKS TO SUPPORTING RESEARCH
http://www.sci.fi/~apither//medbase/infe-prop.html
Anti-influenza virus effect of some propolis constituents and their analogues (esters of substituted cinnamic acids).
Serkedjieva J, Manolova N, Bankova V. Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia. The antiviral activity of six synthetic substances, esters of substituted cinnamic acids, identical with or analogous to some of the constituents of the Et2O fraction of propolis was studied in vitro. One of them, isopentyl ferulate, inhibited significantly the infectious activity of influenza virus A/Hong Kong (H3N2) in vitro and the production of hemagglutinins in ovo. By the use of diverse experimental patterns, it was found that the maximal inhibition of viral reproduction was observed when test substances were present in the medium during the whole infectious process. PMID: 1593279

Research on the protecting action of propolis and bee bread in experimental influenza infection, Jucu,V., Gidoiu,T., Babii Rodica, Palos Elena (1976, 1978, 1981, 1989, 1990) (Romania) -

in the Second International Symposium on Apitherapy, Bucharest, Romania, 1976, pp.187–90 (***);
in “Propolis”, Apimondia Publishing House, 1978, pp.153–56 (***);
in “Propolis”, Editura Apimondia, Bucuresti, editia a treia, 1981, pp.181–84 (Romanian) (***) si in editia a IV-a, 1990, pp.128–31 (Romanian) (***);
in “Produsele stupului, hrana, sanatate, frumusete”, Editura Apimondia, Bucuresti, 1989, pp.59–62 (***).

On the anti-influenza action of fractions from propolis. Manolova H.N., Maximova V.A., Gegova G.A., Serkedjieva J., Uzunov,S.T., Marekov, N.Ya., Bankova V. (1985) (Bulgaria) - Compte rendus de l’Academie Bulgaire des Sciences, 6, pp.735–37.

Report of the preventive properties of propolis against influenza. Osmanagic, Izet (1976) (Yugoslavia) Sarajevo, 1976.

Inhibiting activity of propolis on the influenza virus (Russian) Shevchenko,L.F., Chasovodtseva O.A., Peschanskii,A.N. (1971) (USSR) in Khimioprofil. Khimioter. Grippa Mater. Vses. Simp. 1, pp.56–57. (AA 1178/76).

CONTRAINDICATIONS, PRECAUTIONS, ADVERSE REACTIONS CONTRAINDICATIONS Propolis is contraindicated in those who are allergic or hypersensitive to any of its components.

PRECAUTIONS Pregnant women and nursing mothers should avoid using propolis supplements.

ADVERSE REACTIONS There are reported adverse reactions in those using topical preparations of propolis. These reactions are manifested as a dermatitis. There are reports of hypersensitivity reactions to ingested propolis, including rhinitis, conjunctivitis, skin rashes and bronchospasm.

SOURCE

OVERDOSAGE No reported overdosage of propolis.

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATIONNo typical dose. Propolis is available in several different preparations, including lozenges, tablets, creams, gels, mouth rinses, toothpastes and cough syrups.

WHERE TO GET IT: Health food or supplement dealers.

obmar · Site Admin Joined: 14 Apr 2006 Posts: 5697

http://www.beepropolis.info/

Propolis has been around for over 40 million years and has been used by man both internally and externally even before the time of Christ as a healing agent.

Originated from the Greek word, "PRO", meaning "in defense of" and "POLIS" meaning "city", bee propolis extract is now considered an important part of dietetics and a natural cure by the World Health Organization.

You're about to discover more about this special resins, a protective antiseptic used in world's cleanest laboratories - the beehives.
Featured Section: Propolis 101
honey bee hive

Answering the most basic question about propolis.

We suggest you read this section first if you have no prior knowledge of propolis.
Featured Section: Propolis Health Benefits
beekeepers extracting propolis

This resinous hive product is believed to have been used as traditional medicine as early as 300BC.

Propolis extract is claimed to be a versatile medicine, from the ability to improve body's immunity to rumors that it could be used to fight cancer.

honey medicineDO YOU KNOW?
50 thousand bees can produce only 5 grams of propolis. Thus it used to be a special medicine reserved for queens and emperors.

QUICK LINKS

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obmar · Site Admin Joined: 14 Apr 2006 Posts: 5697

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Propolis