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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.

Background: Multiple Life and health directly depend on food and normal digestive system functions, as well as eating habits. Absorbed essential and beneficial nutrients from food are used by all human organic systems to maintain their functions for the purpose of maintaining health. The immune system resists harmful agents from the environment and increases level of its activity during infection. Such activity requires more energy sources and specific substrates from food to activate cellular and biochemical elements of immune defense. Adequate food choices and a wide range of nutrients are necessary to maintain optimal immune system function. In the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, little attention is paid to strengthening the natural abilities of the human body and its immune system to prevent COVID-19. Objectives: The goal of this article is to evaluate new findings on the impact of food, specific nutrients and eating habits on immune system function during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: The available literature was analyzed using the key words: food, immune system, COVID-19, and the results of studies that have scientific evidence (EBM) for the positive impact of food on the activity of the immune system during this disease were summarized. Results and discussion: Food, diet and digestive function play the most important role in the overall immune response to viral infections. It has been proven that the active ingredients of food can strengthen or weaken the immune system (immunomodulation or immunosuppression). Organic balanced food adapted to each person (personal diet) is the first condition for creating an adequate natural defense system. Conclusion: There is evidence that many nutrients have key roles in boosting immune system. Strong immune system with adequate response can stop virus entering deeply in human body („to stop virus on the gate“).

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.