Propolis Extract Could Be Key To Treating Cold Sores

Cold sores, the small lesions or blisters that can appear on the lips and nearby skin, have no cure. Tending to recur when the patient is stressed or the immune system is run down, cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus, a close relative of the virus responsible for genital herpes. While they heal naturally in most cases, antiviral medications are the best way to speed the healing process.

A new treatment for cold sores, called Propovir, has just been launched by an Australian company. The active ingredient is a proprietary extract of propolis, a substance made by honey bees from various plant sources that is used as a sealant for their hives.

Research has found that using Propovir can accelerate the healing process by four days in some cases, while easing discomfort.

According to Steven Mann, marketing manager of Mentholatum, propolis has been used for medicinal purposes for more than two millennia. Indeed, there is a great deal of data showing its benefits. Propolis has been shown to have anti-viral, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.

As well, propolis has a high content of flavonoids. Found in plants, fruits and vegetable, flavonoids are known to fight free radicals, the toxic byproducts created by the body that are responsible for a number of problems, including diseases like cancer.

Source: BD Live