Legg-Calve-Perthes' Disease : Supplements

Propolis is a natural resin created by bees, used in the construction of hives. Propolis is produced from the buds of conifer and poplar tress, in combination with beeswax and other bee secretions. Historically, propolis was used in Greece to treat abscesses, by the Assyrians to heal wounds and tumors, and by the Egyptians for mummification. Today, propolis is commonly found in chewing gum, cosmetics, creams, lozenges, and ointments. Propolis has shown promise in dentistry for dental caries, as a natural sealant and enamel hardener. Effectiveness of propolis against herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 and parasitic infections has been demonstrated in preliminary studies. However, properly controlled randomized human trials are lacking, and further evidence is warranted in order to establish the therapeutic efficacy of propolis for any indication. Numerous case reports have demonstrated propolis to be a potent allergen and sensitizing agent, and therefore it should be used cautiously in hypersensitive individuals. Toxicity with propolis is rare, although there are multiple case reports of contact dermatitis, erythema, eczema, vesiculitis, and pruritis.