Propolis is a substance produced by bees to protect their hive. It is known for its medicinal properties which include antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, healing, immunostimulants and analgesic properties. This is due to the compounds it contains. These help increase the natural defences in our body and fight respiratory problems and problems in the digestive system or circulatory system as well as skin and urinary diseases. It is a completely natural element, so we can use it whenever we suffer from any of the above conditions and so avoid many of the side effects and contraindications of certain drugs. We can use propolis syrup, which is also suitable for children, or in a spray form which is convenient for wounds. In OneHowTo we explain the health benefits of propolis.
The benefits of propolis have a long tradition in the healing of wounds and other problems relating to the human body. Its fungicide, bactericide and bacteriostatic properties allow it to combat fungi and bacteria, preventing their development that can result in infection. The main components that give it its benefits are flavonoids, an element found in plants and which contain antioxidants and digestive and cardiotonic properties among others. These properties explain its effectiveness in treating the diseases that we detail next.
It has beneficial properties for the stomach and colon, so it can be very helpful in cases where bacteria cause stomach ulcers as well as being beneficial for other ailments such as gastritis, diarrhoea and Crohn's disease, among others. It also acts as a liver protector and regulates the appetite.
Another benefit of propolis is to treat mouth-related diseases. This is due to its antibacterial properties which help treat ulcers, gingivitis, caries, periodintitis, etc. It is also effective in treating conditions involving inflammation and / or irritation, such as tonsillitis, pharyngitis and laryngitis. Most products used for healing throat problems containing propolis.
Propolis is very effective in treating fungal infections on the skin. In most cases it is used to cure skin abnormalities and wounds like cuts, burns, scratches etc. It has also been shown to work in treating acne when employed with a cream or diluted in water. The advantage of using propolis on the skin is that many unlike conventional products that can cause irritation propolis is completely natural and does not usually cause any side effects.
Propolis is also used as a treatment for certain infectious diseases related to urinary system such as cystitis, prostatitis, vaginitis and candidiasis. This is due to its antibacterial, antifungal and tissue regenerating and healing activities. So whether you suffer from fungal infections or if you have an open wound propolis can serve as a treatment that will not damage the skin.
Another benefit of propolis is its action in improving circulation and reducing fat intake in the intestine, so it can be effective as a treatment for cholesterol. However, should you suffer from cholesterol, you should consult your doctor to avoid possible problems arising from the taking such a treatment.
Despite the benefits of propolis we must consider a number of precautions and contraindications to ensure that its use does not become something harmful to our health:
- It can cause allergic reactions in those allergic to propolis, honey and royal jelly causing sores in the mouth, digestive problems and irritations.
- If case of excessive intake or prolonged intake it can produce gastrointestinal problems.
- If pregnant consult your doctor as there si not enough research to confirm that there is no risk to the foetus.
- The use of propolis is not recommended for people who suffer from allergic bronchial asthma, as it can make symptoms worse.
This article is merely informative, oneHOWTO does not have the authority to prescribe any medical treatments or create a diagnosis. We invite you to visit your doctor if you have any type of condition or pain.
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