Propolis
Propolis is a resinous adhesive that bees collect from various plants, enrich it with wax, pollen, enzymes and other substances and use it to seal and disinfect the inside of their nest. The name is due to the fact that the bees place it in front of the entrance of the hive (in front of the city) in order to narrow it and prevent the entrance to the nest of various enemies such as mice, large butterflies, snakes and others. The color of propolis depends on its plant composition. It is usually brown-green, brown, dark brown. It is insoluble in water and soluble in alcohol, gasoline and caustic soda solution. At temperatures above 25 degrees Celsius it is soft, flexible and sticks to the hands, while at temperatures below 15 degrees Celsius it becomes hard and brittle.
Chemical composition
Effects on the human body
Propolis has bacteriostatic and bactericidal properties. It is used to treat injuries of the respiratory organs, oral cavity, and other areas of the human body. It contains in high concentrations flavonoids, flavonols and flavonoids which affect the body in various ways. They have anti-inflammatory action on the joints, skin and mucous tissues, protect vitamin C from oxidation. They have a beneficial effect on capillaries and prolong the action of adrenaline by inhibiting o-methyl transferase. They inhibit the accumulation of erythrocytes, improve blood circulation in the capillaries, have antibacterial activity on gram positive and gram negative bacteria and have antiseptic action. Alcoholic extract of propolis 50% is used to treat chronic otitis. Propolis is also used against chronic itching, for the treatment of local redness, pharyngitis, fungal infections and for general problems of otolaryngology. Helps treat rheumatoid arthritis and spinal ankle problems. Propolis has positive effects in the treatment of vasomotor nerves that cause respiratory cell rupture. It is used to treat ulcers and problems of the prostate as well as to treat problems of the oral cavity. At the same time, propolis is found in cosmetics, lotions, face creams, soaps, shampoos and toothpastes.