The effect of propolis as a functional product on health

Abstract

Propolis is used plant resins collected by honey bees from the buds, leaves or shell cracks of trees such as pine, eucalyptus, maple, poplar, chestnut, plum; wax is a bee product produced by mixing bees with various secretions and partially with pollen and used for various purposes in the hive. The components in its structure gave the propolis antimicrobial, antitumoral, antifungal and antiseptic properties. For this reason, it has been used for the healing of wounds, the treatment of dental caries or disinfection since ancient times. Today, the use of propolis, which is determined to support the immune system, has become more common. The availability of many products produced using propolis has also facilitated its usability. Products such as cream, lotion, and toothpaste produced in recent years contribute positively to the treatment of various diseases. Especially in recent years, the use of propolis in the treatment and recovery of cancer that causes the death of one out of every six people has drawn attention and many studies have been conducted on this subject. Propolis is also used in different areas such as healing wounds, eliminating dermatological problems, protecting oral and dental health. In this review, the healing and preventive effects of propolis are mentioned. © 2021 Bursa Uludag University. All right reserved.