Posted 10/5/2009 7:16 PM (GMT 0)
propolis also has antimicrobial properties, which prevents micro-organisms from entering the hive.
In vitro research has demonstrated propolis has significant antibacterial activity, and also helps to reduce oxidationpotential. Additional research has shown propolis inhibits the growth of bacteria, particularly gram-positive bacteria. Propolis has also been noted to have specific antibacterial activity against strains associated with upper respiratory tract infections in humans. In addition, propolis has shown to possess antifungal effects against Candida albicans.
Propolis’ antibacterial properties may also support oral health. In one study, propolis was found to inhibit certain enzymes and bacteria that are chief culprits in the formation of dental cavities. Other research demonstrated a similar antibacterial effect, including a reduction of bacteria in saliva. Propolis also has desensitizing properties for teeth. In one study, propolis was administered to 26 women with sensitive teeth over a period of four weeks. Eighty-five percent of the subjects were highly satisfied with the reduction in sensitivity to cold air and experienced reduced pain measures. There are different forms of antibacterial, the one in propolis doesn't kill off everything like many/most of the RX kind.
Propolis has significant antiviral properties, particularly where cold viruses are concerned. In one study, preschool and school children were treated with propolis during the cold season. Favorable effects of propolis treatment were observed, including a lower number of common cold cases with acute or chronic symptoms, and a decrease and suppression of the viruses and other microbes in the upper airways. Other research demonstrated propolis was effective in shortening the duration of a cold. Regression of symptoms occurred in the first day of propolis therapy and complete recovery followed in one to two days for the majority of patients, compared to almost five days for the placebo group.
Propolis also has promising antiviral properties against herpes viruses. In vitro research has shown propolis responded to the herpes simplex virus type 1, reducing viral activity and replication. Other in vitro research indicated that the flavonoids found in propolis caused a reduction of intracellular replication of herpes virus strains. In vitro work also found propolis could suppress the replication of the HIV virus.
:)