APITHERAPY Symposium

Home , Apitherapy

No Bees No Life

Lukovica and Maribor, Slovenia, rd th 23 -24 October 2015

BOOK OF ABSTRACTS

Apitherapy Symposium No bee no life

Editor: Andreja Kandolf Borovšak, Nataša Lilek

Photos: Franc Šivic, archive Slovenian Beekeepers’ Asscociation

Translation and proofreading: Alkemist, prevajalske storitve d.o.o.

Financed with funds from the state budget, within the Public Extensions Service on Beekeeping

October, 2015

CONTENT Work Author Page About Filip Terč Gregor Pivec 8 Propolis and Royal Jelly enhance the antibacterial Bratko Filipič, 10 activity of Honeys against: E. coli, Proteus mirabilis, Lidija Gradišnik, MRSA, St. aureus, Str. pyogenes, Str. agalactiae, Adriana Pereyra, Candida albicans and growth promoting activity on Domen Jaklič, TLT-cell line. Rok Kopinč, Jana Potokar Royal Jelly and Propolis enhance the antibacterial Rihar Klemen, Dunja Exel Gregorič, 12 activity of Honey against Pseudomonas aeruginosa Malči Božnar, Bratko Filipič Impact of propolis on cryopreservation of Arctic charr Khairi El Battawy, 14 (Salvelinus alpinus) sperm E. Brannas Bee propolis: the immuno-biological properties Bratko Filipčič, 16 Lidija Gradišnik, Adriana Pereyra, Jana Potokar Bee products as therapeutic target for pathologies Badiaa Lyoussi 18 Enzymes, honey and health Stane Klemenčič 19 Chemical composition and content Nataša Lilek 22 of free tryptophan in Slovenian bee pollen Adriana Pereyra Gonzales, Janko Božič, Andreja Kandolf Jasna Bertoncelj Biological activity of bee bread Blaž Podrižnik 24 Bee bread– Various usage of bee bread and clinical Pushpendra Singh Bhandari, 26 experiences Mirela Strant Nutritional and functional properties of bee pollen Maria Campos, 27 Ofelia Anjos Aerosol apitherapy devices, Recipe for honey with Borut Gosar 30 pine and spruce tips Massage in apitherapy Sandra Rebek Gašperšič 31 Beekeeping at the Work and Care Centre of the Dolfka Zvone Konstantinovič, Nina Korošec 32 Boštjančič Training, Occupation and Care Centre Mladenović Draga Apitherapy at the Črnomelj Occupational Activity Dušan Milinkovič 34 Centre Apitherapy in a school bee house Blaž Lovrič 36 Bee venom therapy in the past and in the future János Körmendy-Rácz 37 Plantar and vulgar wart treatments with bee venom Ramona Grosu, 38 microapipuncture Alina Varadi Apilarnil Alina Varadi, 39 Cristina Aoșan First steps for good beekeeping practices – guide for Etienne Bruneau 40 apitherapy products Honey and other bee products in primary, secondary, Krešimir Lončar, 41 tertiary and quaternary Mirna Ivandić Lončar, prevention in family medicine Josip Lončar My experience in the treatment of chronic wounds Verica Milojković 43 Oftalmo apitherapy Ramona Grosu, 44 Case study: Superficial Punctured Keratitis Alina Varadi

Bee pollen diet Alina Varadi 45 Bee Hive Air therapies in Central-Europe János Körmendy- 47 Rácz Apilarnil – a remarkable bees product and another Cristina Aoșan 48 forgotten Romanian invention

PROGRAMME 23rd OCTOBER 2015 Library LUKOVICA Time Session 1 9:00-9:30 Sign-In 9:30-10:00 Welcome Boštjan Noč 10:00-10:30 Propolis and Royal Jelly enhance the Bratko Filipič, Slovenia antibacterial activity of Honeys against: E. coli, Lidija Gradišnik, Proteus mirabilis, MRSA, St. aureus, Str. Adriana Pereyra, pyogenes, Str. agalactiae, Candida albicans and Domen Jaklič, growth promoting activity on TLT-cell line. Rok Kopinč, Jana Potokar 10:30-10:45 Royal Jelly and Propolis enhance the Rihar Klemen, Dunja Slovenia antibacterial activity of Honey against Exel Gregorič, Malči Pseudomonas aeruginosa Božnar, Bratko Filipič 10:45-11:15 Impact of propolis on cryopreservation of Khairi El Battawy, Egypt Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus) sperm E. Brannas 11:15-11:40 Bee propolis: the immuno-biological properties Bratko Filipčič, Slovenia Lidija Gradišnik, Adriana Pereyra, Jana Potokar 11:40-12:10 Bee products as therapeutic target for Badiaa Lyoussi Morocco pathologies 12:10-14:00 Lunch with visit to Beekeeping centre of Slovenia Time Session 2 Anton Janša Hall

14:00-14:25 Enzymes, honey and health Stane Klemenčič Slovenia 14:25-14:45 Chemical composition and content Nataša Lilek Adriana Slovenia of free tryptophan in Slovenian bee pollen Pereyra Gonzales, Janko Božič, Andreja Kandolf Jasna Bertoncelj 14:45-15:15 Biological activity of bee bread Blaž Podrižnik Slovenia 15:15-15:45 Bee bread– Various usage of bee bread and Pushpendra Singh India clinical experiences Bhandari, Mirela Strant 15:45-16:15 Coffee break 16:15-17:15 Nutritional and functional properties of bee Maria Campos, Portugal pollen Ofelia Anjos 17:15-17:35 Aerosol apitherapy devices, Recipe for honey Borut Gosar Slovenia with pine and spruce tips 17:35-18:00 Massage in apitherapy Sandra Rebek Gašperšič Slovenia 18:00-18:20 Apitherapy at the Črnomelj Occupational Dušan Milinkovič Slovenia Activity Centre 18:20-18:40 Beekeeping at the Work and Care Centre of the Zvone Konstantinovič, Slovenia Dolfka Boštjančič Training, Occupation and Nina Korošec Care Centre Draga Mladenović 18:40-18.55 Apitherapy in a school bee house Blaž Lovrič Slovenia 18:55-19:25 Degustation /Tasting bee products 19:30-21:30 Social dinner

24th OCTOBER 2015 MARIBOR Time Session 1 9:30-9:45 About Filip Terč Gregor Pivec Slovenia 9:45-10:10 Bee venom therapy in the past and in the János Körmendy-Rácz Hungary future 10:10-10:40 Plantar and vulgar wart treatments with bee Ramona Grosu, Romania venom microapipuncture Alina Varadi 10:40-11:05 Apilarnil Alina Varadi, Romania Cristina Aoșan 11:05-11:30 Coffee break 11:30-12:15 First steps for good beekeeping practices – Etienne Bruneau Belgium guide for apitherapy products 12:15-12:45 Honey and other bee products in primary, Krešimir Lončar, Croatia secondary, tertiary and quaternary Mirna Ivandić Lončar, prevention in family medicine Josip Lončar 12:45-13:15 My experience in the treatment of chronic Verica Milojković Serbia wounds 13:15-13:45 Oftalmo apitherapy Ramona Grosu, Romania Case study: Superficial Punctured Keratitis Alina Varadi 13:45-15:30 Lunch Time Session 2 15:30-16:30 Ceremony at the grave of Dr Filip Terč, the Father of Modern Apitherapy 16:30-17:00 Bee pollen diet Alina Varadi Romania 17:00-17:25 Bee Hive Air therapies in Central-Europe János Körmendy- Hungary Rácz 17:25-18:15 Round table about Apitherapy course 18:15-18:45 Awarding of certificate 18:45 Closing

Symposium of Apitherapy in Slovenia in the name of Filip Terč

Filip Terč, the father of modern apitherapy, was born in Prapořištĕ, a tiny village in the Czech Republic. He lived and worked in Maribor, Slovenia. The more modern study of apitherapy, specifically bee venom, was initiated through the efforts of Phillip Terc in his published work "Report on a Peculiar Connection Between Bee stings and Rheumatism" in 1888. In 2006, after an initiative from the organization Bees for Life – World Apitherapy Network Inc., March 30 was celebrated as “World Apitherapy Day” for the first time to honour the pioneering scientific research of Dr. Filip Terč, the “Father of Modern Apitherapy”, and his professional integrity.

In Slovenia, we would like to honour his work with the Symposium of Apitherapy, which takes place in Lukovica, where headquarters of the Slovenian Beekeepeers Association is located, and in Maribor, the town of Filip Terč. In Slovenia we would like to honour the memory of Filip Terč with an annual apitherapy symposium.

Boštjan Noč

President of Slovenian Beekeepers’ Association

Dr. Filip Terč

Filip Terč

Gregor Pivec

Despite the lack of support from his profession, Dr Filip Terč, a physician of Czech descent who lived and worked in Maribor, was able to overcome the boundaries of the strict medical mentality. He was always looking for new ways to treat his patients. He used bees and their products, especially their venom, as a basis to develop new types of treatment. He described his clinical experiences in a medical journal in 1888 (Wiener medizinische Presse). With the declaration of 30 March, Dr Filip Terč’s birthday, as the World Apitherapy Day, his professional efforts finally gained a suitable epilogue.

The international apitherapy symposium held at Hompoš Castle in Maribor in March 2012 sparked a book on Dr Terč’s life and work. Written by Dr Gregor Pivec, a physician and amateur beekeeper himself as well as an expert on the history of medicine, the book draws on professional literature, archival sources and the recollections of his family members to present the significance of Dr Terč’s work. It first outlines the beginnings of apitherapy and discusses the symbolic role of bees in the history of mankind, and then it goes on to present Dr Terč’s life, his medical, beekeeping, teaching and popular science work as well as his social life and efforts. Dr Pivec’s book reveals the complexity of Dr Terč’s personality, with reference not only to his professional endeavours but also the universal human values embedded in the politico-economic situation in the Austro-Hungarian monarchy at the time.

Anton Janša’s bee house

Propolis and Royal Jelly enhance the antibacterial activity of Honeys against: E. coli, Proteus mirabilis, MRSA, St. aureus, Str. pyogenes, Str. agalactiae, Candida albicans and growth promoting activity on TLT-cell line.

Bratko Filipič1, Lidija Gradišnik2, Adriana Pereyra3, Domen Jaklič3, Rok Kopinč3, Jana Potokar3

1 Institute for Microbiology and Immunology, Medical Faculty Ljubljana, University of Ljubljana, Zaloška 4, 1105 Ljubljana, Slovenia 2 Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Medical Faculty Maribor, University of Maribor, Taborska 8, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia 3 MEDEX D.o.o., Linhartova 049, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

Recently, a marked increase in antibiotic resistance by pathogenic bacteria was found. Such an increase is due to overuse and misuse of antibiotics and has resulted in several highly resistant strains of bacteria, such as MRSA. Attention should therefore be placed on natural alternatives to antibiotic treatment such as: Propolis, Royal Jelly(RJ) and different Honeys. Propolis is a mixture of balsamic substances, flavonoids, minerals and proteins with strong antibacterial activity against Gram positive bacteria and some Gram negative bacteria. It stops the multiplication of the bacterium by damaging its cytoplasm, causing bacteriolysis. Royal Jelly possesses antibacterial properties against both Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria. Honey has historically been used as a therapeutic agent. Its antimicrobial activity is the result of: pH, hydrogen peroxide, flavonoids and high sugar content resulting in high osmotic pressure. The experiments were aimed to test the combination of Propolis, Royal Jelly and Honey as antibacterial against: E. Coli, Proteus mirabilis, MRSA, St. aureus, Str. pyogenes, Str. agalactiae and Candida albicans and as TLT-cell growth promoting agents. Water soluble Propolis (Greit 120, Italy) 1:10 in saline was used. Fresh Royal Jelly (Mižigoj, Slovenia) (1:10 in saline) and three different Honeys (Forests from Italy and Spain, Bio- Forest from Italy) were used as 1:10 in saline. The following schema was used: RJ (1:10)(1), Propolis(1:10)(2), Bio-Forest (1:10)(3), Forest-Italy (4), Forest-Spain (5), (3) + 10% (1)=(6), (4)+10%(1)=(7), (5)+ 10%(1) = (8), (3)+10% (2)= (9), (4)+10% (2)=(10), (5)+10% (2)=(11). The antibacterial activity was expressed as MIC. The growth promotion activity was measured at OD 595 nm. Against E. Coli, the best was sample 11 (MIC=0.009). Against Proteus mirabilis, the best was sample 10 (MIC=0.078). Against MRSA, the best was sample 10 (MIC=0.019). Against St. aureus, the best were samples 7 and 8 (MIC=0.039). Against Str. pyogenes, the best was sample 11 (MIC=0.009) and against Str. agalactiae, the best was sample 10 (MIC=0.009). Against C. Albicans, the best was sample: 11 (MIC=0.009). It can be concluded that the combination of propolis with different Honeys is better than Royal Jelly. The best antibacterial activity was found with the combination: 10% Propolis in Forest Honey (1:10) from Italy or Spain. Measuring the growth promoting activity on TLT cells, the best was sample 10 (GI 3 days = 0.796 and GI 5 days =1.133 (0.752 in control)). Both activities, antimicrobial and growth promoting, correlate and are propolis dependent.

Bee hive pannels

Royal Jelly and Propolis enhance the antibacterial activity of Honey against Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Rihar Klemen1, Dunja Exel Gregorič2, Malči Božnar3, Bratko Filipič4

1 Chengdujska 4, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia 2 Glavarjeva 45, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia 3Beekeeping »Božnar« d .o.o., Polhov Gradec 72, Slovenia 4 Institute for Microbiology and Immunology, Medical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Zaloška 4, 1105 Ljubljana, Slovenia

The Gram negative bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the main cause of burn sepsis. This is an everyday problem in hospitals as well as in elderly homes, due to the occurrence of ineffective antibiotic treatment. Additionally important is the increasing evidence of resistance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to many different antibiotics. Royal Jelly (RJ), Propolis and Honey are complex heterogeneous bee products of glandular secretions, glue, flower nectar sugars and different proteins. Fresh RJ is a white yellow emulsion of proteins, carbohydrates, lipids and vitamins. It's antibacterial activity against Gram positive bacteria is connected to different proteins as well as 10-HDA. Propolis (Glue) is a mixture of balsamic substances, flavonoids, minerals and proteins with strong antibacterial activity against Gram positive bacteria as well against some Gram negative bacteria. Different Honeys show antibacterial activity against Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria. The aim of the experiments was to elucidate the enhancing effect of RJ and Propolis on the antibacterial activity of Honey against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. RJ was from commercial source ( Božnar, Slovenia). Water-soluble Propolis was Greit120 (Italy).The Honey was from Beekeeping Rihar-Kocjan (Slovenia). All ingredients were dissolved in saline in concentration: 1:10 and 1:100. Honey was diluted 1:10 in saline. In the combination experiments RJ diluted 1:10 and 1:100 and Propolis were mixed in 1:1 and added as 10% to the Honey. The antibacterial activity was expressed as MIC (Minimal inhibitory concentration) (mg/ml). The MIC of Honey(1:10) was 0.062. RJ had MIC: 0.25 (1:10) and 0.5 (1:100). Water soluble Propolis had MIC: 0.031 (1:10) and 0.125 (1:100). When RJ (1:10 and 1:100) was added as 10% to the Honey, the MIC was 0.015. The addition of Propolis shows the following MIC: 0.015 (1:10) and 0.007 (1:100). When the RJ (1:10) and Propolis (1:10) were added to the Honey, the MIC was 0.031. Addition of RJ (1:100) and Propolis (1:100)gave MIC = 0.014. The addition of RJ (1:100) and Propolis (1:10) as 10% to the Honey increases the MIC to 0.007. The highest MIC (0.003) was obtained when the RJ was 1:10 and Propolis was 1:100. It can be concluded that the enhancing activity of RJ and Propolis on antibacterial activity of Honey was concentration dependent in a way that the mixture of 1:10 of RJ and 1:100 of Propolis as 10% to the Honey show the best MIC (0.003) against bacteria Pseudomnas aeruginosa.

Typically Slovenian bee house

Impact of propolis on cryopreservation of Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus) sperm

El-Battawy1, K.A. and Brannas, E2

1National Research Center, Animal Reproduction and A.I. Dept., Cairo, Egypt 2Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Wildlife, Fish and Environmental Studies Skogsmarksgränd SE-901 83 Umea, Sweden

Cryopreservation of sperm causes damage and adversely affects sperm motility and viability, resulting in lower hatching rates. The aim of this study is to determine whether propolis has a potential protective effect on cryopreservation and fertilization ability of spermatozoa of Salvelinus alpinus. The extenders were prepared by using simple glucose solution (0.3 M glucose), to which 10% Me2SO were added with different levels of propolis (0.4, 0.8 and 1 mg/ ml) and 10% egg yolk (as a control without propolis). The pooled semen samples diluted at the ratio of 1:3 by the extenders were subjected to cryopreservation. The percentage and duration of motility and fertilization tests of cryopreserved sperm samples were done immediately after thawing and compared with control and fresh semen. The extenders containing propolis showed higher percentage motility and motility duration than control group (P < 0.05). Especially group II (0.8 mg/ ml propolis) and group III (1 mg/ ml propolis) showed significant positive effects on both post thaw motility and hatching ability. In conclusion, this study confirms that propolis is an appropriate cryoprotective agent in fish semen and it maintained the integrity of the spermatozoa during the cryopreservation process.

Bee propolis: the immuno-biological properties

Bratko Filipič1, Lidija Gradišnik2, Adriana Pereyra3, Jana Potokar3

1Institute for Microbiology and Immunology, Medical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Zaloška 4, 1105 Ljubljana, Slovenia 2Institue for Biomedical sciences, Medical Faculty in Maribor, University of Maribor, Taborska 8, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia 3MEDEX D.o.o., Linhartova 49a, 1000 Ljubljana

Bee propolis is a multifunctional material used by the bees for the construction and maintenance of their bee-hives. The use of bee propolis has resulted in the development of different dietary supplements used as “natural” remedies. There is knowledge on different biological activity and toxicity of bee propolis indicating it may have many antibiotic, antifungal, antiviral and antitumour properties. The pharmacologically active molecules in the bee propolis are mostly flavonoids, phenolic acids and their esters. These components have multiple effects on bacteria, fungi and viruses. In addition, bee propolis and its components have strong anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities in vitro as well as in vivo. During the immunomodulatory activity of bee propolis on peritoneal macrophages, an increase of their microbiocidal activity was found. A stimulant action on the lytic activity of NK (natural killer) cells and on antibody production was found. It has the inhibitory effect on the lymphoprolipheration that may be associated to its anti-inflammatory properties. The antitumour activity of propolis depends on Caffeic acid phenly ester (CAPE). It was found that CAPE shows an inhibitory effect on angiogenesis, tumour invasion and pulmonary metastatic capacity of tumour cells (CT26). The analyses revealed that CAPE treatment reduced the number of mitotic and proliferating cells of C6 glioma. In contrast to T and B lymphocytes that require a proliferation phase that selects a population of effectors, the NK cells charge immediately upon finding their targets. Their activation is not only the result of a loss of MHC class I alleles but also results from the direct recognition of target cell structures. The 10% propolis treatment increased the cytotoxic activity of NK cells against murine lymphoma, showing that short-term propolis treatment leads to increasing of the immune system and increasing of the immunological response. During the experimental analysis of different sorts of propolis, their antimicrobial, antiviral and antiproliferative activity in vitro was shown, together with RP-HPLC analysis.

Bee products as therapeutic target for pathologies

Badiaa Lyoussi

Laboratory of Physiology, Pharmacology and Environmental Health, University Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah, Fez, Morocco Email: [email protected]

There is an increasing interest of consumers and pharmaceutical and food industries in products originating from honeybees (honey, royal jelly, bee pollen, propolis, beeswax, bee venom (apitoxin) and pheromones). All of these substances have been reported to possess medicinal properties, including, antiarrhythmic, antiatherogenic, antibacterial, anticancer, antidiabetic, antifungal, anti-ischemic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiparasitic, antiplatelet, antiproliferative, antithrombotic, antitumor, antiviral and immunostimulant, vasorelaxant, cardio-, gastro- and hepato-protective activities. Honeybee products have been successfully used in treating human pathologies, including allergies, asthma, bronchitis, flu, hay fever, rhinitis, sinusitis, upper respiratory infections, cough, fatigue, anxiety, stress-relate migraine, lacerations, burns, wounds, pressure ulcers, bed sores, necrotizing fasciitis, insect bites, infections (including antibiotic-resistant bacterial and fungal), septicaemia and conjunctivitis, eczema, psoriasis, inflammation, stomach ulcers, digestive disorders, constipation, vomiting, diarrhoea, colitis, osteoporosis, insomnia, anaemia, hypertension, diabetes, immune disorders, cardiovascular disease, hepatitis, tumours and cancer. We investigated the antioxidant properties of Moroccan propolis collected from various localities (using standard methods, such as DPPH, ABTS, ORAC and chelating activities). The capacity for preventing lipid peroxidation and scavenging free radicals was generally correlated with the phenol and flavone content. Some of the propolis samples were also able to inhibit lipoxygenase and acetylcholinesterase. In vivo, propolis and honey preparations were able to attenuate diabetic hepato-renal damage, probably through antioxidant and detoxification properties. The protective role of some honeybee products against reactive oxygen species-induced damage and nephrotoxicity in diabetic rats provides hope that some of these products will have similar protective action in humans. In the rat diabetic nephropathy model, honey, propolis and pollen also showed significant effects on glucose homeostasis and improving kidney function. A review on therapeutic properties of honeybee products in experimental animal models and human health will be presented.

Enzymes, honey and health Klemenčič Stane

PhD, BSc (Agriculture), Chamber of Agriculture and Forestry of Slovenia, Agriculture and Forestry Institute Maribor, Vinarska 14, SI-2000 Maribor, Slovenia; [email protected]

Enzymes are complex proteins that function as chemical catalysts in living organisms. They are produced in cells and act independently of them. They take part in nearly all the biochemical process that take place in the body but are not altered by them. They are necessary for metabolism and can change the body’s defence strategy to inhibit inflammation and increase blood circulation.

Like all catalysts, enzymes lower the activation energy required for chemical reactions to take place. Reactions catalysed by enzymes occur up to several million times faster, which is very important for destroying viruses, bacteria and cancer cells. Millions of chemical processes can take place in our body in a single second. Without enzymes, metabolic processes would be very slow – too slow to be of actual use to our cells. Different enzymes also often work together in a specific order. From the physico-chemical point of view, enzymes function on the basis of chemical equilibrium and energy. Chemical equilibrium results from the reversibility of reactions and refers to a state where the reverse reaction proceeds at the same rate as the forward reaction. This also occurs in biological processes. The equilibrium of most organic compounds in the presence of oxygen and air favours CO2 and H2O. If their reactivity is further increased by heating, they undergo a phase transition through burning. They are metastable at room temperature – they do not change even though they are not at equilibrium. Their activation energy is lowered by adding a catalyst. A reaction catalysed by an enzyme only proceeds until equilibrium is reached, which occurs significantly faster in the presence of enzymes. An organism (and each of its cells) is an open system in which a dynamic equilibrium is maintained under normal conditions. In a dynamic equilibrium, different steady state concentrations are established that have a tendency towards equilibrium. It is these reactions that give an organism the energy it requires for its vital processes. There is an abundance of enzyme sources in the natural environment and local vegetation. The bioavailability of enzymes is greater if consumed raw. Among the numerous animal enzyme sources, honey stands out as a much-needed and irreplaceable source. Honey contains enzymes of various origins. The basis is provided by the nectar and pollen. The enzyme concentration is then further increased in the bee’s digestive tract (saliva, secretions). The energy value and catalytic capacity of the enzymes is closely linked to the flavonoids and phenolic compounds in honey. Enzymes play a vital role in the excretion of flavonoids from the body and help eliminate mutagens and carcinogens. Flavonoids induce mechanisms that help destroy cancer cells and inhibit the formation and spreading of tumours. Among the many types of enzymes in honey, proteolytic enzymes are the most important. These enzymes have the ability to digest and destroy the protein-based shell of pathogens, thereby facilitating their ultimate elimination. Since we know that our body regulates pH using minerals, we can logically conclude that proper mineral intake helps proteolytic enzymes to function. It must be noted, however, that the mineral supplements marketed by pharmaceutical companies (and the food industry) are of no actual use to the human body. Real bee honey is by far the best mineral supplement, 19 though all the necessary minerals can also be obtained from healthy, organically produced mineral-rich food in its raw form. Supplementing with the recommended quantity of real bee honey ensures an adequate intake of proteolytic enzymes. Experts agree that a healthy, long and contented life is impossible without enzymes. It is therefore necessary to consume enzyme-rich food. Real bee honey is certainly at the top of the list.

Chemical composition and content of free tryptophan in Slovenian bee pollen

Nataša Lilek1, Adriana Pereyra Gonzales2, Janko Božič3, Andreja Kandolf Borovšak1, Jasna Bertoncelj4

1Slovenian Beekeepers Association, Brdo pri Lukovici 8, SI–1225 Lukovica, Slovenia. 2Medex d.o.o., Linhartova 49 a, SI–1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia. 3Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Večna pot 111, SI– 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia. 4Department of Food Science and Technology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva 101,SI–1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.

Bee pollen is a good source of various nutrients that are important for humans. The composition varies depending on its botanical origin, region and country. The aim was to characterise, for the first time, bee pollen from Slovenia. Thirty-two samples of bee pollen were collected during the 2014 season. The contents of water, protein, fat and ash were determined, and the total carbohydrate content and energy value were calculated. Sixty-five different botanical families or species were identified in these samples. Fresh Slovenian bee pollen contained on average 227.3 g·kg-1 of water, 174.6 g·kg-1 of proteins, 73.6 g·kg-1 of fat, 20.6 g·kg-1 of ash and 503.8 g·kg-1 of total carbohydrates, with an average energy value of 14.3 MJ·kg-1. Our data were compared with similar studies and with a draft for the international basic composition requirements for bee pollen in human nutrition. Significant differences were obtained between fat content and energy values across the different months of bee pollen collection. The free tryptophan content was determined for eight unifloral bee pollen samples and ranged from 0.028–0.197 g·kg-1 fresh weight between these unifloral bee pollen samples. These data serve as an indication of the nutritional quality of Slovenian bee pollen.

This paper is available online in Journal of Food and Nutrition Research http://www.vup.sk/en/index.php?mainID=2&navID=34&version=2&volume=0&article=1988

Bioactivity of Bee Bread in Comb Cells Blaž Podrižnik

Our study investigated the bioactivity of pollen stored in comb cells and its potential effects on the quality of honey stored on these comb cells. Pollen sampling was done during sweet chestnut nectar flow (Castanea sativa Mill.), whereby we collected a sufficient quantity of bee bread. Its bioactivity was monitored by measuring the inhibition zones of the chosen microorganism (Staphylococcus aureus, the EXB-V54 strain) and comparing them to the other parameters. We were interested primarily in its connection to botanical diversity, the total content of phenolic compounds and the lactic and gluconic acid content. Within its botanical composition, we did not find any significant differences in terms of bioactivity, so we focused on studying the other parameters, in particular the dependence of its antimicrobial activity on the lactic and gluconic acid. In examining the total content of phenolic compounds, we found a negative correlation of antimicrobial activity with phenolic compound concentrations, which is in contrast to the normal ratio in food. These are specific processes in comb cells that modify the ratios between antioxidant and antimicrobial substances. Due to their lactic acid secretions, microbes are supposed to be essential in pollen fermentation. This is not corroborated by the latest scientific research, which shows that microbe quantity decreases as the pollen ages. Additionally, only traces of microorganism activity were found in parallel national research conducted on our samples. We assume that the principal reason for acidity is not lactic but rather gluconic acid, indicating that it is important that honeybees process the pollen and that the growth and development of microorganisms in the maturation of pollen is controlled. Understanding how the systems inside comb cells function is vital if we are to develop new apiculture products based on the properties of bee bread, which includes its antimicrobial, antioxidant and prebiotic and probiotic activity.

Bee bread– Various usages of bee bread and clinical experiences

Pushpendra Singh Bhandari1, Dr. Mirela Strant2

1Pushpendra Singh Bhandari, Member National Bee Board Of India, Member of German and Romanian Apitherapy Societies, Jaipur, India 2Dr. Mirela Strant, F M licenced, Api-phyto-therapy, Trainer in Api-Phyto-therapy- Cluj- Napoca, Romania

Raw bee bread, less known and used compared with other bee products, deserves closer attention. Bee bread is the pollen that the bees process in their hives. There it undergoes a process of fermentation in a stable condition of temperature and humidity. Even though it derives from pollen, bee bread has some different characteristics. For example, bee bread contains more reducing sugars than pollen from the same plant species (Casteel, 1912). It has higher acidity due to the presence of lactic acid and larger amount of vitamin K. The quality of lactic acid is six times higher as compared with pollen. Also, bee bread contains a milk- digesting enzyme (Hitchcock, 1956) that pollen collected from the legs of bees does not. The higher activity of bee bread causes a good preservation of bee bread due to the inhibition of the growing of moulds as well as of microorganisms. Another important thing to be mentioned is that the outer shell of pollen (exine) is broken during this process, releasing nutrients. All these factors makes bee bread a precious and valuable product that can be used in medical practice and also in our diet. Bee bread has high antioxidant and scavenging abilities against free radicals such as superoxide anion radical and hydroxyl radical. Among its medical properties, some laboratory tests showed antitumoural activity of bee bread extracts. At present, consumer demand for natural foods with the effect of medicine is increasing. Bee bread is a food containing naturally occurring compounds. In the future, bee bread will apply more and more as health food and medicine due to its functional properties such as its antioxidative and scavenging activities of free radicals. In the final part of our presentation, we present some clinical cases and experiences using bee bread as a remedy and superfood as well.

Nutritional and functional properties of bee pollen

Campos MG.1,2* Anjos O. 3,4

1Coimbra Chemistry Centre (CQC, FCT Unit 313), Chemistry Department, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, Rua do Norte, 3004-535 Coimbra, Portugal; 2Drug Discovery Group, Centre for Pharmaceutical Studies, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Health Sciences Campus, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; 3IPCB/ESA – Instituto Politécnico de Castelo Branco, Escola Superior Agrária; [email protected] 4CEF/ISA/UTL – Centro de Estudos Florestais, Instituto Superior de Agronomia, Universidade Técnica de Lisboa *Correspondent author: [email protected]

Consuming Bee pollen for therapeutic purposes has been lost in time, though the practice covers various nutritional and therapeutic applications. However, the scientific basis that permits the inclusion of this vegetal matrix in pharmaceutical formulations is not yet supported by a complete monograph that safeguards Public Health and sustains their bioactivities in-depth and consistent knowledge. Nevertheless, much research has been done in recent decades, and the concern about the quality of this raw material has led to a recent publication in order to begin the process of standardisation of methodologies to enable the development of a European Quality Control Directive with all regulations inherent in the process (Campos et al., 2015 in Coloss Bee Book, vol. III; Campos et al. 2008). In this work, information will be given regarding the various floral origins of bee pollen and its interest as nutritional and therapeutic activities that scientifically substantiate the traditional use. The profiles of polyphenolic compounds that enable the identification of those origins and enable a screen of new compounds for further research on bioactivities will be also presented (Campos et al., 1997). An approach to the structural identification of the main flavones and flavonols in pollens by means of an ultra violet spectrum will be provided using the theoretical rules developed by Campos and Markham (2007). The bioactivities researched up to now have shown strong viability in different applications, however they indicate that flower origin may be a determinant for the type of therapeutic approach, ranging from preventive activities, for example antioxidant activity, prevention of prostate cancer, increasing bone mass and lowering the lipid profile to anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and other activities (Campos et al., 2010). The toxicity of some taxa has not been fully studied and should also be addressed and disclosed in order to avoid side effects (Boppré et al., 2008), especially in cases of frequent ingestion of certain bee pollens. Despite the well-known nutritional value of bee pollen, the studies are still scarce but substantiate that this matrix has strong potential as a raw material that might be used as a drug in future medicines.

References:

Boppré et al., 2008. J. Agricultural and Food Chemistry 56 (14):5662-5672. Campos et al., 1997. Phytochemical Analyses, 8, 181-185. Campos et al., 2008. J.Apicultural Research and Bee World 47(2):154–161 Campos and Markham, 2007 (ISBN978-989-8074-05-8) 27

Campos et al., 2010 Bee-Pollen Therapeutic Value. In V. K. Gupta(Ed.) Book Series Comprehensive Bioactive Natural Products. Chap. 11, 257-277. ISBN: 1-933699-51-5.

Slovenian honey with protected geographical indication.

Recipe for honey with pine and spruce tips

Borut Gosar

Liquid extracts from medicinal plants have long been used to improve resistance, relieve coughs and throat soreness, treat inflammation, wounds and psychological disorders, etc. They can be used to prepare various types of syrups. However, syrups have a high water content and are thus susceptible to spoilage. They can also contain potentially harmful substances that are added to keep them from spoiling after opening and during storage (ethanol and other solvents, sugar, antioxidants, antimicrobials, etc.). A well-known recipe for sugar-based spruce tip syrup consists of laying multiple layers of spruce tips and sugar in a jar and leaving the jar out in the sun for several weeks. Due to its high hygroscopicity, the sugar extracts the water and beneficial ingredients (essential oils, resin, antioxidants, vitamins) from the spruce tips via osmosis, resulting in a liquid solution, i.e. a syrup. Beekeepers make syrups from medicinal plants on a honey basis. Honey-based syrups are prepared by soaking fresh plants in honey with a small amount of water, stirring the mixture every few days and straining the syrup after a few weeks. The advantage of honey-based syrups compared to sugar-based syrups is that they taste better and contain more antioxidants and vitamins, as they are not subjected to thermal treatment. However, since the active ingredients in the plants do not dissolve or dissolve poorly in honey and water, these syrups contain an insufficient amount of active substances and an excessive amount of water, making them more susceptible to spoilage. Beekeepers can reduce this problem by drying the tips before adding the honey, but this reduces the absorption of active ingredients into the honey. The water content in honey can be reduced using various vacuum techniques and devices without affecting the quality of the honey. One of the best procedures for dehydrating honey is low-temperature vacuum distillation, where a vacuum distiller is used to remove excess water from honey at a temperature of up to 40 °C while preserving the quality of the honey. Honey treated in this manner is microbiologically stable, but it contains only a small amount of oils, essential oils, resins and other herbal active ingredients that are not soluble in water or honey. The aim of my lectures is to provide you with a recipe for preparing honey with pine and spruce tips that does not contain preservatives, has an appropriate density (like honey) and moisture content and is microbiologically stable while containing a large amount of herbal active ingredients that are and remain dissolved and homogeneously distributed in the honey even though they are not actually soluble in honey.

Aerosol apitherapy devices Aerosol apitherapy devices or nebulisers function by breaking up solutions into microscopic droplets (0.5 to 0.6 micrometers). A large amount of these droplets form a fine mist known as an aerosol. The droplets in the aerosol have such a small mass that the inhaled air can easily carry them to every part of the respiratory tract. Since the droplets are still liquid and not in a gaseous state, they can carry along various substances such as salt, medicine or active ingredients from bee products (honey, propolis or pollen). The active ingredients dissolved in the microscopic droplets can thus reach both the upper and lower airways, ensuring effective treatment. Using this method, we can treat respiratory diseases (laryngitis, chronic bronchitis, bronchiolitis, etc.) using bee products even during winter (source: Peter Kapš, 2012).

Massage in apitherapy

Sandra Rebek Gašperšič

My extensive experience has enabled me to combine my knowledge with new bee products. I named the result Apicare. I mostly use Swedish massage techniques, as they promote blood circulation and muscle relaxation. Honey massage nourishes the skin and has a detoxifying effect. Lymphatic drainage clears the intercellular spaces. Garshan, a type of Ayurvedic dry massage, warms up the skin, improves circulation, removes dead skin cells and prepares the skin to receive nutrients. Shiatsu points on the stomach, back and face allow me to improve the energy flow to the organs. As part of a full body massage, I use special techniques to relax the muscles in the back and reduce cellulite on the legs, a honey massage to activate the five Hara elements of the stomach, detoxify the body, relieve and relax the muscles in the arms and cleanse the skin on the face and a rich honey mask to nourish the skin. I use my own products, creams and ointments in my work. Anything we apply to our skin reaches our bloodstream within an hour. The substances we use should therefore be nutritious. The massage I will be presenting combines the knowledge I have gained through years of experience and training. I have designed it to suit my own needs and can adapt it according to each individual’s specific problems. The primary principle in our work is to not cause harm due to a lack of knowledge .

Beekeeping at the Work and Care Centre of the Dolfka Boštjančič Training, Occupation and Care Centre Draga

Zvone Konstantinovič Prof. Nina Korošec Mladenović, riding instructor, equine-assisted therapist

Dolfka Boštjančič Training, Occupation and Care Centre Draga, Draga 1, SI-1292 Ig, Slovenia

The Dolfka Boštjančič Training, Occupation and Care Centre Draga (TOCC) is a social assistance centre that provides training and education, healthcare, care and rehabilitation for children, adolescents and adults with moderate, severe and profound intellectual disabilities and additional impairments.

The Work and Care Centre (WCC) is an organisational unit of the TOCC that provides adults with intellectual and physical disabilities with social assistance in the form of care, guidance and employment under special conditions. The WCC operates as an independent internal organisational unit of the TOCC and comprises units in Ljubljana, Draga, Škofljica and Ribnica.

The WCC in Draga also houses the Internal WDC, which carries out an adapted green programme.

The green programme includes the following activities:

 participation in the agricultural programme – horticulture: landscaping – raking and picking up leaves, garden work, planting and transplanting, etc.,  caring for horses and small animals,  housework at the WCC’s premises,  making ornaments for sale at our stand during the holiday season,  making natural paper,  musical activities,  dancing,  walking,  stretching,  arts and crafts,  beekeeping.

Beekeeping at the TOCC Beekeeping was first introduced at the TOCC on 4 July 2012, when we built a bee house for educational purposes as part of the IMEX CHALLENGE. The bee house is currently home to 7 bee colonies. We try to include as many of our users as possible in everyday work with bees. We teach them about bees using a simplified version of Marija Mlakar Šumenjak’s textbook and workbook Čebela se predstavi (About the Bee).

Beekeeping activities with our users include: • caring for bee colonies, • leaning how to use bee products for a healthier life, • painting beehive panels, • making beeswax products, • making hive frames, 32

• pouring honey, • packaging honey in jars, • collecting pollen, • collecting propolis, • cultivating honey plants.

In the future, we plan to set up the interior of our bee house for apitherapy purposes and focus our agricultural programme on the cultivation of honey plants and trees and offer them to a wider market.

Apitherapy at the Črnomelj Occupational Activity Centre

Dušan Milinković

Črnomelj Beekeeping Society

As beekeepers of the Bela Krajina region, in collaboration with the professional staff at the Črnomelj Occupational Activity Centre, we wanted to present the world of bees to the Centre’s users – adults with mental and physical disabilities. We were guided by the desire to help, to bring together two seemingly incompatible worlds. We wanted this vulnerable group of people to integrate into their broader environment through beekeeping and, by learning about it, to achieve self-sufficiency and independence in the supply of hive products. In this, we were not following any examples from other countries, since no such form of therapy using bees was known at the time when we came up with our idea. Thus, the Beekeeping Club at the Črnomelj Occupational Activity Centre (OAC) was born in 2012.

The Beekeeping Club is attended by people with mental and physical disabilities whose test results indicate that they considerably deviate from the average in terms of communication, caring for oneself, household chores, spatial orientation ... Since the Club members were all defined as people with a moderate mental disability, we present their characteristics in greater detail below. People with a moderate mental disability: - have varying levels of abilities (in terms of education, they can master the basics of reading, writing and arithmetic, while in other activities, e.g. physical, artistic and musical, they can achieve more), - are able to participate in a simple discussion and understand instructions, - can express their needs and wishes, - can carry out simple tasks related to caring for themselves, but otherwise need guidance and varying degrees of assistance throughout their lives, - can be trained to perform simple jobs, - generally cannot be trained for a completely independent social life.

In our case, the target group for our therapy includes people with disabilities whom we try to integrate into the narrower and broader social environment using bees. Bees are supposed to play the role of a therapist and a kind of mediator of favourable impulses or stimuli. Considering that they are part of nature, they have a beneficial and most of all therapeutic effect on people and they increase the sense of belonging to a group, thereby making it easier for people to establish contacts with others.

Using the “Beekeeping at the OAC” idea as the foundation, the Črnomelj Beekeeping Society designed the project in collaboration with the OAC professional staff.

What we were trying to achieve is that: - the users would become proficient in beekeeping, - they would learn about the importance of bees and beekeeping for people, - they would learn about bee plants and plant them in their garden, - the OAC users would be able to supply themselves with hive products.

Our goal is to train the first Beekeeping Club group so that they will be able to pass on their knowledge by themselves (with a mentor’s assistance) to the other OAC users.

Dušan Milinković, President of the Črnomelj Beekeeping Society and Head of the Club, teaches the Club members all the necessary beekeeping skills. There are seven boys and two girls in the Beekeeping Club.

Beekeeping was originally conceived as an extracurricular activity for their free time. It has been shown that getting the users involved in beekeeping was not just a way to fill their free time but rather a new impetus to work and socialise. The success of the “Beekeeping at the OAC” project could also turn out to be a business opportunity for the OAC, which could supply beekeepers with comb frames produced by the users as part of their work. They already make protocol gifts. We will keep you posted on our progress in the coming years, perhaps even with your assistance in the form of advice and experience should you decide to follow us with similar projects or to visit us.

Apitherapy in a school bee house Blaž Lovrič

Since ancient times, man has been aware of the healing properties of bee products and the aromatic air surrounding bee hives. Beekeepers quickly realised that their work with bees and bee hives keeps makes them feel very well. It makes them more resistant to colds, calms them and increases their vital energy.

Air pollution has made respiratory diseases, allergies, asthma and lung and bronchial diseases very common today, especially in children, who spend a great deal of time in closed spaces where they are exposed to various disease agents. For preventative reasons, the Selnica ob Dravi Primary School frequently holds activities in the school bee house, where pupils are directly and indirectly exposed to the soothing effects of beehive air. During the active season, we organise daily visits to the bee house for both preschool and school children and hold classes for special needs pupils as well as extra activities for gifted pupils. We also place a special emphasis on using bee products at our school – we eat up to 200 kg of honey each year in the form of honey breakfasts, drinks and various delicacies.

Bee venom therapy in the past and in the future.

Dr. János Körmendy-Rácz,

Beekeeper, apitherapist, president of the Hungarian Apitherapy Association, Vice president of the International Federation of Apitherapy

There is a tradition in Europe of using bee venom for therapeutic purposes. Two people who did so were Philip Terc from Maribor and a little later Beck Bódog, born in Hungary. Those two people were very important in the history of bee venom, because they were not only medical doctors but also excellent observers and scientists. They not only healed patients, but they collected knowledge and wisdom and bequeathed it to us. If we read their heritage carefully, we can only conclude, like Charles Mraz, one of the founders of the American Apitherapy Association, that their every word is scientifically proven and valid even today. We can still learn from them.

What will happen next? Do we need to purify bee venom? Some of these provocative questions will be also discussed.

PLANTAR and VULGAR warts treatment with bee venom microapipuncture

Alina Varadi1, Dr. Ramona Grosu2

1Nutritionist technician, Trainer in Api-nutrition, beekeeper, CasaBIO, Cluj-Napoca, România 2G.M. licenced , Acupuncture, Api-phyto-therapy , Trainer in Api-aroma-therapy, CasaBIO, Cluj-Napoca, România www.casabio.ro, [email protected]

Warts are benign tumours, but sometimes extremely painful and disturbing, caused by a papilloma virus. Conventional treatments are often lengthy and in many cases ineffective. Because of the therapeutic properties of melittin from bee venom (scar removing, antiviral, immunomodulatory, vasodilator, etc.) we thought it might be a good treatment for warts. All those over 60 treated patients were cured in a short time using micropuncture with bee stings. Here we have a few significant cases of patients cured with this treatment. As a conclusion, micropuncture with bee stings for warts is extremely effective; not painful, cheap, easy to do, suitable for children, adults, and elders.

The APILARNIL – harvesting, utilization, clinical cases

Dr. Mirela STRANT1, Dr. Cristina AOSAN2, Alina VARADI3

1MF specialist doctor, Competence and trainer in Api-fito-aromatherapy 2Competence and trainer in Api-fito-aromatherapy, Melidava, Romania 3Technician nutritionist, Trainer in Api-nutrition, beekeeper, CasaBIO, Cluj-Napoca

Apilarnil, intensely studied 30 years ago then unduly forgotten, preserves its remarkable properties. Obtained through a special method from triturated 7-day-drone larvae and the nutritive content of drone cells in the specific combs, Apilarnil was patented by Nicolae V. Ilieșiu, a Romanian apiarist of genius. It is extremely important that the harvest exists in optimal hygienic conditions, and also that by producing apilarnil we have a biological opportunity to combat the parasite known as Varroa. We also show in this presentation the correct methods of obtaining and storing Apilarnil.

Apilarnil has a complex composition, being extremely rich in strong nutritive and biologically-active substances (including those of hormonal type), easily assimilated.

Apilarnil consumption has important therapeutic properties, so it can be used to treat a wide range of disorders and diseases.

It should also be mentioned that, according to studies carried out, Apilarnil consumption, even in large concentrations, has no mutagenic risk, no teratogen effect, and no risk of chronic toxicity.

In this presentation we will share some clinical experiences of the use of Apilarnil on its own, or in combination with other bee products (Apilarmel).

First steps for good beekeeping practices – guide for apitherapy products

Etienne Bruneau

The level of quality required to produce apitherapy products is very high and different from the level that we find in typical good beekeeping practice guides. Based on the HACCP approach, all the risks linked to contaminants and degradation of bee products are analysed and attention is given to the importance of botanical origin. The topic is to keep a maximum of active ingredients. Specific advice is given to beekeepers to improve their harvesting, packaging and storage techniques. The presentation will cover the following products: honey, pollen, bee bread, propolis, royal jelly, queen larva, apilarnil, wax and bee venom of good quality.

Honey and other bee products in primary, secondary, tertiary and quaternary prevention in family medicine

Krešimir Lončar1, Mirna Ivandić Lončar2, Josip Lončar3

1 Department of oncology, Clinical hospital centre, Zagreb, Croatia 2 Health center Zagreb - zapad, Zagreb, Croatia 3 Private practitioner's office, Bjelovar, Croatia

Food is one of the most important factors in maintaining and improving health. Any prolonged irregularity in nutrition can lead to health impairment and be a cause of disease. Since ancient times, honey has been well known as a food with healing properties.

Honey can have an important role in the nutrition of pregnant women and wet nurses. Even before conception expectant mothers supplies organism with micronutrients important for successful conception and pregnancy. Honey can reduce fatigue, reducing anaemia and improving blood count. In infants and children, honey improves calcium absorption and reduces incidence of rickets; it also reduces anaemia, dyspepsia and infections. Calcium is important in tooth and bone development and helps healthier growth of young children. Besides all the positive health effects, a habit of consuming honey instead of refined sugars is also important. For frequent respiratory infections in pupils and students, honey is important as an expectorant with good antimicrobial activity, and in that population honey is an important energy source for learning and concentration. Respiratory infections are frequent in middle age due to stress, dehydration, smoking - drinks containing honey efficiently reduce symptoms and help recovery. The beneficial effect of honey is observed in reducing incidences and complications of hypertension, obesity, diabetes and thyroid disease. Anti-inflammatory effects of honey and especially propolis are important in treatment of cardiovascular and gastrointestinal inflammatory diseases. Easy digestibility is a good reason for using honey in liver and bile diseases. Honey’s effect on the skin has been known since ancient times.

The most important advantage is the lack of side effects and the synergistic activity with medications, hormones, vitamins and healthful plant components. Simple dosage and application makes honey the most attractive product from flying pharmacists. Propolis, royal jelly and pollen are now considered as superfoods. All bee products are used in dietotherapy of the healthy and sick due to their specific pharmacological effects on the human body. Use of bee products does not induce function impairment or side effects even after long term use.

From the perspective of a family physician, the scientifically proven effects of bee products (antimicrobial, antioxidative, immunostimulating, detoxing, probiotic, antitumor) are important tools in care for their patients - either in primary, secondary, tertiary and quaternary prevention. Therefore, apitherapy, as a special branch of natural medicine that studies the practical application of bee products, is an important tool for a family physician.

My experience in the treatment of chronic wounds

Dr. Verica Milojković A Specialist of General Medicine, Licenced apitherapist The President of the Serbian Apitherapy Society An Executive member of the International Federation of Apitherapy The President of the Apitherapy Education Commission of our Federation. E-mail: [email protected] mob : 064/2023218

A multidisciplinary approach should be applied in the treatment of chronic wounds. It is necessary to be patient, professional and persistent in order to help these patients adequately.

The treatment is a long process that requires perfect control of the underlying disease; the therapy is systematic and local.

The aim of my workis to show the evidence of the successful treatment of chronic wounds with propolis. Propolis has shown antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant and regenerative effects. To share personal experiences in the treatment of chronic wounds using propolis orally and locally, high doses of vitamin C and mineral zeolite. The combination of such treatment has influenced rapid healing of chronic wounds and contributed to better quality of life.

15 patients, aged 40 to 90, with chronic wounds of different etiology were treated in 2013 and 2014. The patients took propolis orally, high doses of vitamin C, and mineral zeolite. The wounds were locally treated with propolis.

By using propolis in the treatment of chronic wounds with proper detoxification of a body, thus controlling the underlying disease, the wounds have been rehabilitated for a short period of time.

By adopting a multidisciplinary approach to the treatment of chronic wounds using apitherapy - prololis and proper detoxification of the body, chronic wounds heal rapidly. Propolis has proven to be a bee product of the future.

Oftalmo api-therapy case study: Superficial Punctured Keratitis

Alina Varadi1, Dr. Ramona Grosu2

Honey bee products and honey in particular have preventive and curative effects in some eye conditions. In this presentation we will present a case of punctate keratitis resistant to all allopathic treatments, but responsive to the introduction of honey into the eyes, according to a specific protocol. Through its comprehensive action, honey helps to restore corneal metabolic balance, a good anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effect. Without side effects, the use of honey is a valuable method of therapy and prevention; inexpensive and easy to apply.

Api diet (pollen)

Alina Varadi1, Dr. Ramona Grosu2, Dr. Mirela Stran3

1Nutritionist technician, CasaBIO, Cluj-Napoca, România 2 G.M. licenced , Acupuncture, Api-phyto-therapy CasaBIO, Cluj-Napoca, România 3Ț, FM licenced, Api-phyto-therapy, Trainer in Api-Phyto-therapy– CasaBIO, Cluj-Napoca www.casabio.ro; [email protected];

Seeing the American food pyramid we noticed that animal products are consumed too often and bee products as food were not found. We also know that the American lifestyle and diet has led to its population being one of the most obese in the world.

Raw pollen, by its composition and properties is a great food for humans, a super food even. Pollen is a product made from the male reproductive cells of the flowers whose role is to perpetuate genetic information. Raw pollen is a “living” food, charged with enzymes, friendly bacteria, proteins, minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, and a natural delicious taste. For 6 years we have experienced a diet containing bee products and we used this alternative way of eating for a very wide range of patients and the results were very good. We have introduced new food groups (e.g. pollen and bee bread) and we removed some food from the patient’s diet, which we observed was not helpful for them. Our clinical experiences also suggest that raw pollen regulates the metabolism and, being so full of nutrients, combined with an api-vegan diet reduces obesity levels in a harmonious way. We also present here few significant cases of weight lose with an api-vegan diet.

We also examined a 40 days diet programme with raw pollen and vegetables, and fresh juices with blood tests conducted before and after. Results are very encouraging and can pave the way for further research.

Bee Hive Air therapies in Central-Europe

Dr. János Körmendy-Rácz1

1Beekeeper, apitherapist, president of the Hungarian Apitherapy Association, Vice president of the International Federation of Apitherapy

It has been over a century since beekeepers in Hungary noted that sleeping in bee houses has healing effects. Similar observations have been noted in Slovenia. In recent times, Austrian and German beekeepers have also used bee hive air for inhalations.

One medical team in Germany observed the healing effects of the inhaled beehive air on 66 Patients. Allergies (46%), Asthma (24%), Bronchitis (13%) and COPD (9%) were treated. The treatment was evaluated with a professional questionnaire and lung function measurement. The best results were for children and for asthma or allergy to achieve. There is another approach in Ukraine and Hungary: sleeping on the hives. Single observations showed that besides lung treatments, a pain killing effect of the bee hive air was also noted. Previously, we evaluated the detoxification effects of a honey massage [1,2]. Currently, we are combining another approach of inhaling bee hive air therapy with honey massage. The patient lies on bee hives during a massage with honey. First, the results will be presented. We suggest a common protocol for using the healing effects of bee hive air.

References: [1] Körmendy-Rácz J., Márkus A. (2015) Bee Hive Air Therapies in Europe. Apimondia, Daejeon, Korea. [2] Körmendy-Rácz J. (2014): Detoxification effect of the original Hungarian Acacia Honey. Vth. APIMEDICA Forum of APIMONDIA, 1-5 szept, 2014, Erzurum, Turkey [3] Körmendy-Rácz J. (2013): Detoxification effects of honey massage. Vth. APIMONDIA, 1. okt, 2013, Kyiv, Ukraine

Correspondence author: Dr. CSc. Körmendy-Rácz János, President of the Hungarian Apitherapy Society email: [email protected], Phone: +36 30 948 6635

Apilarnil – a remarkable bees product and another forgotten Romanian invention

Dr. Cristina Aoșan Member of the Apitherapy Commission of Apimondia www.melidava.ro

Apilarnil – named sometime ago the eighth beehive product – has been forged in Romania by a complex personality beekeeper, Mr. Nicolae V. Ilieșiu. The product has been issued in 1980, in a time dominated by a certain fascination for the chemical synthesis medical products. And still, owing to its powerful biological actions, even at that time it had a powerful impact in the scientific media. Innumerable scientific research works and accounts have been published, promotion monographs have been achieved, even a documentary has been issued, the invention has been patented and protected in the most important countries all over the world, national and international medals have been awarded to it. But, as time passed by, the apilarnil went unrighteously off the public attention, being too little used in our days, even if it deserves an esteemed place among the bees products. We may righteously ask ourselves, how is it possible for such a bees΄ gift to mankind to become neglected, buried and forgotten just in our country, where it originated from?

In the spirit of those past times, the apilarnil has been designated both to the welfare of the working people and to the glory of the Communist Party and of its great steersman. As such, the patent rights titular holder have been granted the famous Apiary Farm of the Agricultural Cooperative of Scornicești. But the attention granted by the government officials disappeared after the Romanian society implosion following the political change of December 1989. Afterwards the country΄s economic collapse and the national interests΄ betrayal by the political class have perfected the natural forgetfulness of an asset, laying now in the international public property. In many places abroad we may hear nowadays about the powdered drones΄ larvae trade.

Mr. Iliesiu, as the invention author, remains only with the glory to be the first to have extracted this impressive product from the millenial experience and practice of the Romanian beekeepers.

He has spend his early childhood in the Ardeal greenfields, in the Maieru village, which the famous writer Liviu Rebreanu adventisiously called ”the nest of the dreams”. There Rebreanu΄s father has been taught beekeeping by the inventor΄s grandfather. The lifetime passion of this peasant – graduated of a Vienna gymnasium – has been beyondly passed. The inventors΄ parents, Maria Luisa and Vincentiu Ilieşiu, themselves beekeepers, used to supplement homebred chicks fodder with drones΄ larvae. Such feeded chicks grew better and faster than those feeded in the usual manner. That procedure, observed by the 15 years old young Iliesiu in his parents΄ courtyard, has followed him all his apiarian professional life.

After his school years in Nasaud and Cluj he started working as a journalist in several periodicals of the time. The chance for his apiary economical foresights has been his redactor credentials to the Industries and Economy Ministry of the time. The informations gathered and his organisational skills transformed him from a newspaperman into a succesful businessman, printing house owner, entrepreneur.

Being close to the Patriarch Justinian, he sustained the Orthodox religious community, helping in the organisation of a clerical tokens workshop in the Cernica Monastery as an economic association. Cinically, the comunists throwed him into jail for 9 years, for the imaginary guilt of prejudicing the Patriarchy...In jail, at Tichilesti, in the Great Braila Island, 48 he lived amongst the bees. Afterwards, as for other top valued people, he has been put back in social life and appointed in 1957 the first Apicola director, for which he organised branches almost everywhere in the countryside. In the same year, together with Prof. Harnaj, he founded the Beekeepers΄ Association. He furtherly worked in Apimondia, where in 1977, in Adelaide – Australia, he received the Golden Award and the Honor Diploma for his whole activity in the international federation. During his own freetime he finalised his research work concerning Apilarnil, resulting in 25 Invention Certificates.

His monograph dedicated to Apilarnil description and promotion explains the reasons leading to the completing of the method for the obtainment of a new bees product; the astonishing biological results observed even since his childhood and the economic efficiency thus achieved. Apilarnil is an active beehive biological product, fabricated through the trituration of the drones΄ larvae, furtherly freeze-dried or manufactured through other diverse methods. The drones΄ larvae harvesting is done using a special device, a vaccum pump, or by treading combs containing similarly aged larvae, under rigurous hygienic conditions. Using a triturator, a kind of mixer, one obtains a mixture that is immediately filtered. The result is a milky product, white-yellowish coloured and with sweet-sour-astringent taste and pleasant aroma, reminding bees pollen and propolis.

Its denomination, API-LAR-NIL, is created by its inventor using several abbreviations, its API origin, made from drones΄LAR-vae and his name initials N. Ilieșiu. In the folklore tradition, as the Romanians traditionally used these larvae, in the Maramures and North Moldavia villages, the drones΄ larvae extract is also called ”jintița”. In Moldavia, it is called ”steer΄s milk”, being famous for the vigor offered to male consumers.

Apilarnil is roughly the whole content of the comb in which the drones are living, this meaning that it is a mixture of 97% bodies of drones΄ larvae and and 3% ordinary larvae΄ feed composed of royal jelly, bees pollen as such and fermented (bee bred), honey ans water. The importance of the product is mainly derived from the fact that, during gathering, at only 7 days from eggs laying, one drone larva already contains a huge number of sex cells, over 10 millions sperm cells.

It is easily understood the reasons for which such a nutritional input may improve sexual males dynamics. Even more, being charged with young and integer fresh bioactive components, it generates a spectaculary development of the young subjects, mainly – but not only - of the males.

In Apilarnil΄s composition there are glucides, proteins, lipids and a percentage of undetermined substances. More detailed analyses have demonstrated the presence of essential aminoacids, which cannot be produced in the human body, and of some other aminoacids as well. Their input might explain the usefulness of Apilarnil for each young organism, no matter of sex, especially for the young and/or carenced ones. In Apilarnil΄s content important quantities of minerals and oligoelements (calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, copper, manganese, zincum, sodium, potassium) have been detected which also sustain the conclusion of the high value tonic and trophic character, with general tropism of the product. What is to be underlined is the fact that if male persons are the important beneficiaries of this product, it is far from being harmful and undesired its consumption and use neglection even by female persons. This is a great gift of Nature, and mostly the fact that – as a rule – the apiarian just as the vegetal products are used by the organism just where it is needed, how and how much it is needed...

Countless studies and tests have been accomplished on Apilarnil and the apiary larvae. One of the important aspects thus revealed is the lack of toxicity. As such, the general conclusion is that it does not contain any cytotoxic factors which might interfere with the cells natural growth. Even more, studies accomplished in USA under FDA rigours and published in the American Bee Journal, have demonstrated that there are no harmful substances or potentially harmful in the bees saplings.

More than 13 years of intense activity in the field of apitherapy have lead me to the conclusion that the Apilarnil very special effects, might be more completely revealed to the consumers if it could be specially processed, in full correlation with its bioactive features. Usually, it is processed through freeze drying, meaning that dry matter is obtained from the product by extreme cold vacuum dessication. This enables further easy usage...in the pharmaceutical industry, meaning that tablets or capsules – easier to be administrated - may be easily produced. Still as a reverse of the medal, the bioavailability of the product is diminished just by its lack of water. Even more, some other special properties of the original product are also lost. Let us remember that we are approximately composed of 70% water. It constitutes the medium in which Life evolves, being a vehicle, support and information depository. When water disappears, life ceases to manifest, functional connections between particles and molecules are lost and what is left is just an amorphous mixture of organic and inorganic substances. More, water from a living organism, as that of the beehive larvae, is derived from such a clean and select medium, being of a very special value. It is chemically pure, far superior to drinking tap water. Even more, it has a very special vital energetic charge, even more if the the producing bees are fairly treated by the beekeeper, as friendly beings. We might talk about live water, in the full sense of the word.

These have been the reasons that have determined me to look for the optimal variant to prepare a stable mixture of Apilarnil with bees honey and furtherly to optimise its therapeutic value through a more elaborated mixture that also uses bee pollen. As such we have achieved a high percentage (10%) integral Apilarnil product, Acacia honey and raw pollen. All have been intertwinned in just one bouquet, which we have called Apilarmel, that maintains the benefacting stimulating, tonic and constructive features of Apilarnil with the very special protein substrate offered by bee pollen, the energetic one provided by the high quality glucides from honey and the life catalysts represented by vitamins, enzymes, oligoelements, all comprised in the minimal necessary quantity of live water, naturally existing in all bees΄ original products. Bee honey also provides some other advantages, functioning as the carrier of the associated remedies towards their targets and thus amplifying their properties. The results we have furtherly obtained enable us to say that this is a remarkable product.

Who are those who are especially targeted for Apilarmel use? Certainly we may divide the users into four great cathegories: the young persons and the sports practicing people, submitted through the special nature of their activity to high physical and intellectual consumption, overwork and stress; those who prize their health and vigour and work to maintain them; mature persons, aiming to the third age, who through daily food supplementation with Apilarmel achieve a removal of old age phenomena. As it is proven fact, a long time consumption prolongs lifespan and maintains good health. And, of course, the suffering persons, to whom – function of their health own problems – Apilarmel might be recommended in dosages according to their situation.

As such, in growth problems of babies, anemias and inapetency, up to severe overwork and extreme stress of the young working from morning to evening to perfect a career, Apilarmel, in moderate dosages, from ½ teaspoon to 3 full teaspoons a day, or even 3 times 2 tespoons each time a day, might bring an unexpected solution and help. 50

But the main Apilarmel beneficiaries, this being said in our full responsibility, shall be the healthy person. Mostly in our everyday lifestyle, with a great consuming existence in daily activities but with disequilibrated and carenced nutritional input owing to denaturated foodstuff, the need exists for supplementation with high quality, biologically active substances. The product brings a dose of vitalising, energising and regenerative substances, ensuring a higher physical and intellectual yield, an improved stamina, providing to the organism some of the raw materials involved in high quality maintainment of its normal structures and functions.

For health maintainment a teaspoon daily, 10-14 days every month is necessary; men may use 2 or more teaspoons, just as intensely sollicited women, function of the effort involved by everyone. This dosage is the result of our practical experience, including that of our family.

Geriatry

Apilarmel sustained therapy may bring back vigour and stamina, together with high resistance against diseases, to the older ones regardless sex, through a high input of nutrients and bioactive substances. It is usually well-known that the third age persons have a lower processing and absorbtion capacity of the digestion tract. Melidava produced Apilarmel provides through its formula trophic and tonic substances easily absorbable and assimilable. It increases immunity and body΄s resistance against diseases, shortens convalescence and recovery duration in the case of age associated ailments. During winter, it is useful to increase dosages.

Pathology in sexual dynamics, sperm quality, conception

Men who for any reason have a sexual dynamics problem may use Apilarmel with excellent results.

Couples that do not succeed in having children must know that usually there are not the women carrying the infertility responsability but the males having this kind of problems. And we are talking about percentages close to 50% of the infertile couples.

There has to be done a net distinction between men΄s potency and their reproductive capacity. What nowadays is usually called virility, meaning the capacity to have sexual rapports, is neither a measure nor a guarantee of the fact that the seminal material is of the best quality. As such, couples in which males have problems with their spermatozoa count (azoospermy, oligospermy), or with their dynamics and mobility, should use Apilarmel. The product improves sperm qualities and increases the number, vigour and speed of the spermatozoa.

Even more, there are clues that Apilarmel might also influence the sex of the newborn. Upon the basis of some empirical observations obtained in animals, pregnant females fed with jintita have given birth to predominantly male offspring. For rigour, the address nr. 3851/1959 of the Microbiology Institute Dr. I. Cantacuzino may bee seen.

In situations of sexual dynamics problems caused by stress, to their resolution, it is important to give also the due attention to the elimination of tensions in the favour of relaxation.

Sporting persons

Nowadays the champions do no more receive, like in the antique times, a laurel crown; instead they receive money. Much money and high expectations in life. With just one condition: to be better today than yesterday and to-morrow than today. This fact generates a huge psychic and physical consumption, with serious consequences for the body of those involved in such competition. To face this stress, many use supplements, not always the legal ones. Apilarmel and bees products may offer a good solution for a natural modality to improve performances. An organism in need is supported without causing any damages or harm. Studies accomplished on male subjects have shown that an increased Apilarnill consumption leads to increases of the muscle mass. Things are different for female subjects, and so there are neither risks of masculinization through an exaggerate growth of the muscle mass, nor overweight risks through adipose deposits.

It is desirable for the youngsters looking for a growth of the muscle mass and hard fitness working not to use synthesis hormones, even if they might generate spectaculous developments. We can ensure you that these over-rapid methods for muscle growth have also unwanted effects which might follow you all your life.

Gynecology

In the gynecologic pathology the product may be used in the premenstrual syndrome, mastodiny, mastoses and breast nodules, functional menometrorrhagies, psychogenic amenorrhea, dismenorrhea, associated or independent hyperthyroidy. Generally, it calms down female hormonal hypersecretions estrogenic type. In obstetric pathology it may be used in the spontaneous abortion therapy, placentar insufficiency, pregnancy hepatopathy, dispregnancy.

Liver problems

Patients with different liver problems, acute, chronic or viral hepatitis, liver cyrrhoses, and even hepatocarcinoma may successfully use Apilarmel. It is well known that Apilarnil has also antiviral effects and bee honey and bee pollen are good liver trophics. Apiary products may constitute high quality and efficient remedies in treating or in improving a great number of primary and secondary chronic hepatopathies.

Carential states, convalescences

Through its own nature Apilarnil is a complex of substances close to royal jelly. It acts as a general tonic, vitalises, rebuilds structures and functions affected by various ailments, thus being useful in the treatment of all carential states, undernutrition, malnutrition, anemias, convalescences – including those following surgery.

A special domain is represented by carential states following exaggerated weight loss cures. Different weight loss cures, with high and immediate effects, as the hyperproteic, mono-food, a.s.o., where on the behalf of some physiological tricks spectaculary results might show, degrade the health of the beneficiaries of these pseudo-medical recommendations. Frequently, the patients΄ recovery after such cures is not only problematic, bur also takes time. In such situations, a small quantity, if compared of those for foods, from a concentrated biological product, may bring again in the body the principles of which it has been roughly deprived.

Oncology

As such, Apilarmel may be useful for the effective treatment of those cancers types considered as originating in female hormones causes. We are especially talking about some breast or genital cancers, in which the specific laboratory investigations show the presence of specific receptors for female sex hormones.

A special domain is represented by the carential and degenerative states occuring during and following oncology treatments. In adequate dosages – usually higher than usual – Apilarmel may be useful to all patients suffering oncology problems who are submitted to chemio- or radio-therapy, through its liver protecting effect, maintaining the liver trophicity and regenerating, protecting against organic degeneration, preserving the general vitality and immune protection. To be mentioned is the fact that Apilarnil sustains hematopoiesis, responsible with blood quality and severely affected for all patients submitted to chemio- or radio-therapy. Bee honey is one of the few natural products of all the organic ones to contain germanium. Honey germanium is of a high bioavailability grade. As it is already known, it has a leading role in fighting cancers. Raw pollen is a source of high quality proteins, and selenium that also fights against cancer. And Apilarnil also contains important royal jelly quantities, originated in royal jelly of the larvae feed.

Not to fall in the ridiculous matters of unprofessional discussions, we can ensure that a high quality and correctly administered food has no means to ”feed” cancers. Even more, for the apiary products we might talk about super-food, of exceptional quality and 100% of vegetal origin, even if bees belong to the animal reign and their products are conventionally considered as being of animal origin. The proper food is the one that keeps health for anyone. The sharks who eat only meat, never get cancers. Do you really think that honey bees might get sick by eating pollen, honey and royal jelly?

It is well-known in the professional media and nowadays even by non-professionals, that cytostatic means in reality cyto-toxic. During the action of such substances the chaotic cell divisions in tumours is slowed down, together with the natural divisions of the body΄s normal cells. As such the severe toxins, with chemical formulas many times quite close to herbicidal substances, administrated as cytostatics, produce a real disaster not only upon tumours but also upon all the other organs and functions of the human body. Practically, a severe rapid and precocious, artificially induced aging happens, when the vital and effort capacity seriously decrease, that capacities against weather changes, defense and disease fighting decrease too. And radiotherapy is an even more serious treatment accompanied by various harmful consequences and complications.

Recent studies published in Natural News have shown that many medical doctors working in cancer therapy refuse these therapies for themselves if in the position of oncology patients. More precisely, there is a study accomplished at McGill Cancer Center upon a group of 118 medical doctors, who – in a 75% percentage – would decline for them or for their families the standard oncology therapies, owing to their disastrous effects in the absence of supportive treatments.

An adjuvant treatment that allows the body to resist under such conditions and maintain an active immune system is – in many people΄s opinion trying to understand the human being in its proper complexity – absolutely necessary.

Instead of ending

Apiary profession shall certainly offer in the future even more happy surprizes. The whole beehive is a blessed source of health, from wax and inside atmosphere up to bees venom. 53

Apilarnil is a very complex bees product, which we owe to the efforts of some dignified precursors. Unjustly forgotten, it deserves to be put again in due light from the dusty shelves. The efforts of its initiators must be continued and grown, in order to achieve a restitution to those in need of it. Sadness in our souls, the Apilarnil brand was no more belonging for many years after 1992, neither to Mr. Iliesiu heirs nor to the Romanian lineage. It has become the property of some strangers, unconnected neither to the apiary science, nor with this God blessed land. Fortunatelly, in 2013 the brand was returned to the Institute of Beekeeping in Bucharest, where it started everything. We are the only responsible to stand up from the history ash and recreate the world anytime when needed.

The Romanian Apilarnil, correctly gathered, has unfortunately become expensive and difficult to find. It has a net superior value, compared to the drones powder produced in Asia for ridiculous low prices and being used as a raw material for many products falsely and injustly called apilarnil. This is the reason for which Apilarmel contains Romanian apilarnil, provided by trustful sources, but thus limiting for its production. And in order to restitute it to the consumption with all properties embodied in by the bees we have tried to find an optimal variant to put it down in an efficient and easily administered product.

We respectfully thank to Mr. Nicolae Iliesiu, from far beyond the time that we hopefully believe had placed him in a full of Light place, for the large horizons way that he opened for us.

(written in 2012, revised in Oct 2015)

Ed: the manuscript was not proof readed by Alkemist d.o.o.