In this week's article, we would like to introduce you more closely to propolis. Propolis, in its simplest definition, is a natural substance produced by bees. Propolis, collected by worker bees from the leaves, stems and buds of various plants and stored in the hive, consists of wax and plant sap with a pungent and pleasant smell, insoluble in water, and a bitter taste. Bees use this substance to insulate the hive while preparing it, and thanks to propolis, they ensure that the interior of the hive remains clean, thus protecting the hive against harmful substances and microorganisms coming from outside. Although there are 50,000-80,000 adult bees and the same number of offspring (eggs, larvae, pupae) in a closed environment in the hive, the temperature inside the hive (34 °C) and humidity (40-65%) are ideal for viruses, bacteria and fungi. Although it creates an environment, these disease factors do not have the opportunity to reproduce due to the protective properties of propolis. The color of propolis varies from green, red, yellow, and brown depending on the plant source, time of collection, and storage time. Its smell is unique and characteristic. Its taste is intensely aromatic and astringent in its raw form. It becomes hard in the refrigerator and freezer, and becomes sticky at room temperature. Due to its adhesive properties, it easily passes into the skin, interacts with the oils and proteins of the skin, and becomes difficult to clean from the skin.
Propolis contains vitamins such as B1, B2, B6, vitamin A, vitamin C, Vitamin E and copper and manganese. Thanks to its minerals, it acts like a medicine to our immune system and strengthens the immune system. Since it strengthens the immune system, it protects the body against diseases such as flu, flu and cold, and accelerates the healing process of existing diseases.
Especially in these days when we are dealing with disease factors such as coronavirus and swine flu virus, a strong immunity reduces the risk of contracting diseases. is very important for reduction. When looking at the effects of propolis on the immune system, the active compound of poplar type propolis, caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), and the active component of Brazilian green propolis, Artepillin C, stand out. In this way, propolis provides protection from many diseases and supports the treatment of these diseases.
Research conducted. It has been found that they are effective against Staphylococcus aureus bacteria that settle in areas such as hands, armpits, groin and nose and can cause infections. It shows that the use of propolis with honey in upper respiratory tract infections reduces the duration and frequency of infection. Particularly the antibacterial activity of propolis has been proven. Its effect increases even more when used together with some antibiotics. Considering its antifungal effect, it is especially effective against Candida species. Especially poplar type propolis gives more effective results in helping you cope with viruses that cause colds. However, research shows that propolis also has an effect on Helicobacter pylori, which causes stomach ulcers.
Propolis has the highest antioxidant activity compared to other bee products. Natural antioxidants prevent the formation of free radicals and the damage they cause. Research shows that propolis, with its antioxidant activity, is necessary to prevent the oxidant/antioxidant balance in the living organism from being disrupted. The disturbed balance can cause diseases such as increase in free radicals, cancer, asthma, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, liver diseases, digestive system and eye diseases.
When the effects on blood parameters were examined, it was found that propolis had a reducing effect on high blood glucose levels, triglyceride, LDL cholesterol, urea, creatine and BUN levels, and also had an increasing effect on HDL cholesterol. The use of propolis is effective in reducing the values of liver function tests such as AST, ALT, ALP, which increase with fatty liver. It also shows normalizing activity in low red blood cell count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, white blood cell count and platelet levels.
Here are its countless other benefits:
* It is effective in improving the destruction of beta cells in the pancreas caused by diabetes.
*It contributes to the normalization of liver enzyme activities in cases such as alcohol-induced liver damage and fatty liver.
*It has a cardioprotective effect with its antioxidant activity.
*Gums It creates a rapid healing effect on infections and wounds in the mouth.
*It is also effective in treating bad breath.
*It has positive effects on many inflammatory diseases that occur in the body. In this way, it helps you overcome diseases such as ulcers and stomach inflammation.
*It helps wounds close quickly because it accelerates the cell renewal process.
*It can occur in various parts of the body, especially the corners of the mouth. It has therapeutic properties for herpes.
How allergic is propolis?
Propolis is as allergic as honey. It can be easily determined whether one is allergic or not by dropping it into the wrist. You can use it easily if there is no rash or unexpected effects on the body.
How much should I use?
You can choose the ones in drop form. Because propolis is not a water-soluble substance. Therefore, it is important to take it dissolved in olive oil so that you can see its effects. You should choose reliable brands prepared within the scope of TUBITAK and ITU projects or in Erciyes University laboratories. As for how to use it, if you suffer from conditions such as gum or throat inflammation, you can gargle with propolis. 5 drops should be used daily for children and 10 drops for adults. You can consume it by mixing it with honey or drinks to improve its bitter taste.
Hope that diseases stay away from you and your children..
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