Praktické lekárnictvo 3-4/2015

Utilization of propolis and some other natural substances in the treatment and prevention of respiratory infections

Recurrent respiratory infections represent a very common health problem in children. The current critical view of the widespread use of antibiotics in the last years has led to search for other options of therapies and preventions in the field of natural origin´s substances. It is not just a return to traditional usage, but a trend of therapeutic use supported by the scientific evidence of efficacy and safety. One of these rediscovered options is propolis, a bee product, used already in the ancient medicine. Currently there is a growing scientific interest in propolis, they are proven its antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, immunostimulatory and other beneficial effects. In a raw propolis there is a potential possibility of allergic reactions. Therefore, there are efforts technologically affect the quality and safety of propolis. In Italy there was patented procedure „Process for obtaining non-allergic propolis“. Its advantages include the purification and increased bioavailability of active ingredients, standardization of polyphenol component of propolis and elimination of allergenic part. The resulting propolis E.P.I.D. in some preparations is advantageously combined with additional components, e. g. phytotherapeutics, whose effects acts synergistically with the effects of propolis or it usefully complement. In a clinical study it was demonstrated that in children with recurrent respiratory infections such a combination reduces the frequency and duration of these diseases.

Keywords: non-allergic propolis, pediatry, respiratory infections.