Evidence supporting the use of: Bee products
For the health condition: Cold Sores

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Bee products, such as propolis and honey, have some scientific support for use in the management of cold sores (herpes labialis). Propolis, a resinous substance produced by bees, has demonstrated antiviral and healing properties in laboratory and clinical studies. A few randomized controlled trials suggest that topical propolis preparations may reduce the duration and severity of cold sores, possibly comparable to or better than acyclovir cream, a standard antiviral treatment. For example, a study published in Phytomedicine (2010) found that a propolis ointment accelerated healing and reduced symptoms compared to placebo. Honey, especially medical-grade varieties like Manuka honey, has also shown promise in limited studies for wound healing and antiviral effects, including against herpes simplex virus (HSV). However, the evidence for honey is less robust than for propolis, with only small clinical trials or case reports available.

Despite these findings, the overall quality and quantity of research are limited, with small sample sizes and potential bias in studies, so further large-scale clinical trials are needed to confirm these results. Both propolis and honey have a long history of traditional use for skin ailments, but their application for cold sores is now supported by some, though not strong, scientific evidence.

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