Propolis is astoundingly complex and contains as many as 300 active compounds. These components were found to fight cancer in a variety of ways including: - Preventing the growth of new blood vessels to feed cancer cells - Preventing the spread or metastasis of cancer from one organ to another - Halting cancer cell division - Inducing apoptosis or programmed cell death In addition, propolis was found to mitigate the side effects or toxicity of chemotherapy drugs used in the treatment of cancer. Bees make propolis by gathering resin from pine and other cone-producing evergreen trees. They blend the resin with wax flakes and pollen, and take it back to the hive. There they use the sticky mess to patch holes, seal cracks and build panels in the hive. 1. Anti-Microbial Action Propolis has a wide range of antibacterial properties. It is also has anti-fungal and anti-viral powers. In one animal study, applying a propolis solution to wounds helped speed healing in diabetic rats. In children, propolis has been found to: - Prevent respiratory tract infections - Remedy symptoms of the common cold - Prevent middle ear infections 2. Heals Burns A 2002 study from the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that propolis may promote the healing of minor burns. The researchers compared a propolis skin cream with silver sulfadiazine, a drug used to treat burns. Study results showed propolis was just as effective as the drug in treating second-degree burns. 3. Prevents Dental Cavities Greek and Roman physicians used propolis as mouth disinfectant. Modern studies show it may be effective in the treatment of periodontitis and gingivitis. Many studies have also found that extracts from bee glue limit bacterial plaque and reduce tooth caries. Other studies show that propolis may even help regenerate dental pulp, as well as bone tissue, and cartilage. 4. Treats Parasites Preliminary trials show propolis may eliminate parasites. In one study people who took propolis had a 52 to 60% success rate in eliminating the parasite giardiasis.