Propolis is the name given to the resinous substance that is collected by bees from the leaf buds and barks of trees, such as poplars and conifers. The bees use the propolis and combine it with beeswax to help build their hives. It contains a variety of vitamins, minerals, proteins and amino acids. Because of this, some people use propolis as a dietary supplement.
Propolis has been shown to have both antibiotic and antimicrobial properties. Test-tube studies have shown that propolis is effective against certain bacteria and yeasts associated with dental cavities, periodontal disease and gingivitis, and that it may help mouth wounds heal faster. Other studies have shown that propolis extracts can treat giardiasis, a common intestinal parasite found in children. Topical application of propolis may reduce inflammation of the skin and treat conditions such as genital herpes and rheumatoid arthritis.
Because propolis is not considered an essential nutrient, deficiency levels and recommended daily allowance levels have yet to be established. However, many supplement manufacturers recommend a dosage of 500 milligrams of propolis taken orally, once or twice daily. For topical applications, patients should follow the instructions on the product label.
Commercially prepared propolis is available in a liquid extract, as well as in capsules and tablets. Topical creams and sprays containing propolis are also available.
Proplis is generally considered non-toxic, although it may cause allergic reactions such as skin rashes. People who are allergic to bee stings, bee pollen, royal jelly, honey, or conifer and poplar trees should not use propolis unless being tested by an allergy specialist first. In addition, because the effects of propolis have not been determined in women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, it should be avoided by women during these times. As of this writing, there are no well-known drug interactions with propolis. As always, make sure to consult with a licensed health care provider before taking propolis or any other herbal remedy or dietary supplement.
References
Governor Gavin Newsom has retracted the proposed budget cuts to the Medi-Cal acupuncture program for low-income Californians for the 2024-2025 budget year. This decision marks a significant victory for health care providers and advocates who have long championed acupuncture as a vital component of comprehensive medical care.
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Fair and appropriate wages in health care are typically based on economic evaluations. A simple literature review illuminates that acupuncture is missing economic evaluations; which implies you are either underpaid or overpaid. The complexity of services provided by most American acupuncturists, which they are trained and certified to provide, must be reimbursed fairly.
