Propolis is a resinous mixture that bees
collect from botanical sources like buds and tree bark and subsequently work
with their digestive secretions, adding extra ingredients (enzymes, wax,
pollen) to create a substance used to protect the beehive.
Propolis is mainly composed of resins,
balsams and waxes, which vary in quantity depending on the sources collected.
Pollens, essential oils, organic compounds (like flavonoids) and minerals are
also present in propolis.
The flavonoids present in propolis, like
galangin, carry out an antibacterial action. The greater the concentration of
galangin in the products, the more effective they are.
In the case of flu symptoms that affect the
upper airways, such as sore throats and colds, propolis is an excellent remedy
because it has an antibacterial action and its effect is proportional to the
concentration used.
A sore throat, or pharyngitis, is a fairly
common inflammation of the upper airways usually caused by viruses or bacteria.
It can also be the result of external irritants such as smoke, dry air and
pollution.
The most common symptoms are a burning
sensation, pain when swallowing and difficulty speaking. If the sore throat is
due to a virus it may also be accompanied by a fever, cold and cough. It is
important to take immediate action when the first symptoms appear.
