Effect of Propolis Preparations on Transepithelial Electrical Potential, Resistance, and Ion Transport in In Vitro Study

BACKGROUND: Propolis and its ethanol extract show positive germicidal, bacteriostatic, and anti-inflammatory antioxidants and regenerative properties after use on the surface of the skin. Propolis is in common use in production of cosmetics and in folk medicine. The influence of this resinous mixture on ion channels, channels located in skin cells membranes and skin electrical resistance, was not explained. OBJECTIVE: The main aim of the study was the evaluation of electrophysiological skin parameters during mechanical and chemical-mechanical stimulation after use of ethanol extract of propolis and propolis ointment in comparison with iso-osmotic Ringer solution. METHODS: Skin fragments were taken from white New Zealand rabbits and distributed into three experimental groups which were incubated in ethanol extract of propolis (EEP), propolis ointment, and Ringer solution. Then they were placed in a Ussing chamber to measure electrophysiological parameters values. RESULTS: In this study the influence of EEP on changes in value of electrical potential during block of chloride ions transport at the same time was observed. Ethanol propolis extract dissolved in water increases the transepidermal sodium ions transport in contrast to propolis ointment. CONCLUSION: The way of preparation cosmetics, which contain propolis, has effects on transepidermal ions transport in the rabbit's skin. The value of skin electrical resistance is changing with penetration depth of active propolis substances contained in cosmetics.