Prakt. lékáren. 2019; 15(2): 85-89 | DOI: 10.36290/lek.2019.015

Propolis as an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agent

Karel Šmejkal
Ústav přírodních léčiv, Farmaceutická fakulta, Veterinární a farmaceutická univerzita Brno

Propolis is a multicomponent product of bees containing a number of biologically active substances. The composition of propolis varies a lot, depending on seasonal conditions, time of collection, and plant resources available to collecting bees. It contains a variety of phenolic substances, such as phenolic acids and flavonoids. Propolis has traditionally been used to treat a wide range of diseases; however, major interest is focused on its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. For practical use, the most common technique of processing propolis is washing with water and ethanol extraction in order to produce a propolis balm that, due to the removal of hydrophilic compounds and pollen grains, exhibits lower rates of allergic reactions. Overall, propolis is a safe product and can be used as a supplement to classic treatment.

Keywords: propolis, phenols, anti-inflammatory effect, antibacterial effect

Published: June 20, 2019  Show citation

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Šmejkal K. Propolis as an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agent. Praktické lékárenství. 2019;15(2):85-89. doi: 10.36290/lek.2019.015.
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