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Propolis is a natural resinous substance collected by honey bees from buds and exudates of plant species, mixed with bee enzymes, pollen and wax. It has a complex composition with a wide range of effects, including antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, antiflogistic, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, carcinostatic and immunomodulatory properties. It is often applied in the treatment of diseases involving the oral cavity and gums. The aim of this paper is to describe the therapeutic properties of propolis, chemical composition and its application in the oral cavity. Literature and systematic information on the composition and the effects of propolis on health were collected, with particular reference to the use in the treatment of oral cavity diseases. The chemical composition of propolis is very complex. The health impact depends on the biologically active components it contains. A particularly important application is in the treatment of diseases of the oral cavity. Studies show that propolis can help prevent dental caries and control gingivitis and plaque. It reduces halithosis (bad breath) and symptoms of periodontosis. It is also effective in fighting viruses. It can have significant application in orthodontics and restorative dentistry. A wide range of effects allows the multiple uses of propolis-based products. Recent research has been increasingly focused on diseases of the oral cavity. The development of novel propolis-based pharmaceutical forms could significantly reduce the use of antibiotics in conventional treatment of diseases of the oral cavity.

Abstract. Background: Oral dietary supplementation is becoming increasingly popular as an addition to classical approaches for the prevention and treatment of hemorrhoidal disease. Aim: To examine the effect of orally administrated alpha lipoic acid (ALA), known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, in the treatment of patients with permanent symptoms of hemorrhoidal disease. Methods: Patients with second- and third-degree hemorrhoids (n = 100) were enrolled into a randomized, open label, single-center trial. The study group (n = 50) was treated with 200 mg of orally administered ALA once a day during the 12-week period, the control group (n = 50) did not receive any treatment. Results: There were no significant differences in demographics, diagnosis, or exposure to major risk factors between the study and placebo group at baseline. ALA significantly improved subjective efficacy variables, such as pain and discomfort (p 5 mg/L) from 18% before to only 2% after the treatment (χ2 = 4.65; p 9/L before to 6.18 × 109/L after treatment. Conclusions: The obtained results indicate that ALA is effective in the treatment of second- and third-degree hemorrhoids. Larger, double-blind controlled trials are needed to confirm the results and to investigate optimal treatment regimens.

All foods are made of nutritive and non-nutritive compounds. Nutritive compounds contribute to maintenance of homeostasis and metabolism of the human body. On the other hand, the non-nutritive components are often hazardous and used in excessive used doses can cause diseases. Estimation of non-nutritive harmful substances intake is a very complex process based on risk assessment.