Organic Propolis and Peppermint Lozenges

ENT Sphere Pathologies

ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) pathologies infect your nose, throat, ears, and sinuses. In France, these infections are the leading causes of consultations with pediatricians and general practitioners. A study conducted in France in 2006 and 2007 revealed that the average number of consultations for these ENT pathologies was 18.6 million per year!

From an economic standpoint, these pathologies have a major direct impact, with an estimated cost of 1 billion euros, as well as an indirect impact due to absenteeism and sick leave. These ENT infections are therefore very common and most often benign, with a spontaneous recovery probability of over 80%.

Viruses to Blame

The origin of ENT infections is most often viral. This is the case for rhinopharyngitis, as well as 70% of tonsillitis cases and 40% of ear infections. But remember that famous public health campaign that told us: "antibiotics are not automatic!".

And yes! Antibiotics have very limited effectiveness on viral infections, and conversely, their repeated use is known to drive the emergence of resistance in microbial germs. A French survey revealed that 33% of doctors felt they prescribed antibiotics at the request of parents. One of the consequences of this was that in 2006, France had one of the highest rates of pneumococcal resistance to penicillin in Europe (36%). It is therefore important to realize that beyond these pathologies, their cost must not be worsened by inappropriate parental and medical habits.

Propolis, an Alternative to Antibiotics

The main viruses responsible for these conditions belong to the rhinovirus, coronavirus, adenovirus, and influenza virus families. And ENT infections of bacterial origin are mainly caused by Streptococci, Haemophilus influenzae, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Among hive products, propolis is recognized as a true "natural antiseptic". It is a concentrate of protective substances containing mostly polyphenols, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, aromatic acid esters, and essential oils. This combination of purifying substances naturally contributes to the body's protection and resistance. This effect is enhanced if propolis is taken before infection.

The flavonoids in propolis have a direct action on the virus (at the level of host cell penetration or replication) and an indirect action by strengthening our immune system. Regarding infections of bacterial origin, there are many more studies demonstrating the effectiveness of propolis as an antimicrobial agent. Most bacteria involved in these conditions are sensitive to propolis, even antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains.

Action of Propolis on the Flu or Colds

In the case of the flu or a cold, the polyphenols in propolis will exert a soothing antiseptic action, particularly when taken in liquid form, by creating a protective veil over the respiratory tract. The molecules in propolis will also trigger several metabolic pathways that allow the body to better defend itself by supporting our immunity. Propolis thus helps to reduce the intensity and duration of the flu episode, as with many other infections. It is worth describing step-by-step the usefulness of propolis for both prevention and support:

1. Propolis exerts a prophylactic effect

This point is crucial! When given for prevention, propolis enables the body to better defend itself once the infection occurs. Its protective effect will be amplified. It prepares the body by exerting an immunostimulant effect. This effect is dose-dependent, and it is important to absorb a sufficient quantity of polyphenols to ensure it.

2. Propolis has antiviral capabilities

Propolis thwarts the penetration of the virus. Certain specific flavonoids found in brown poplar propolis have an anti-neuraminidase action (observed in vitro) and hinder the spread of virions, thereby preventing the infestation of our healthy cells.

3. Propolis acts on the innate and adaptive immune response

Propolis stimulates the phagocytic activity of macrophages, our first line of defense. The destruction of infected cells by Natural Killer cells is also boosted. If this bodily response is not enough, adaptive immunity steps in. And here again, propolis plays the role of a conductor by stimulating B lymphocytes for increased antibody production.

Other Solutions from the Hive

Propolis is not the only thing that can be useful in ENT infections. Certain honeys also contain a high amount of flavonoids. They can also contain volatile molecules with recognized antiseptic properties, as well as specific beneficial actions (such as bronchodilator activity in eucalyptus honey, for example).

Our Aromiel and Propolis Recipe

We recommend preparing your mixture for the day (the equivalent of 4 to 6 teaspoons to be taken throughout the day). In a bowl, pour the equivalent of 2 generous tablespoons of honey, then add the contents of one single-dose of extra-sttrenght poplar propolis. Mix well, then add the essential oils:

• 3 drops of tea tree essential oil, Melaleuca alternifolia
• 2 drops of radiated eucalyptus essential oil, Eucalyptus radiata
• 3 drops of ravintsara essential oil, Cinnamomum camphora
• 2 drops of peppermint essential oil, Mentha piperita