Effect of propolis on in vitro growth of microrganisms associated with periodontitis in HIV positive patients

It has been demonstrated that propolis is a good antibiotic against different microorganisms. The purpose of this study was to evaluate in vitro the efficiency of propolis against microorganisms that can be related to periodontitis in HIV-positive patients. 12% alcoholic and aqueous brown propolis solutions, 12% alcoholic green propolis solution and 0.12% chlorhexidine were used. The halos of microbial growth inhibition and CFU eliminated in contact with propolis were determined. The results demonstrated differences not statistically significant between propolis and the clorhexidine on the microorganisms tested. Green propolis was more effective than brown propolis. Propolis, showed an antimicrobial effect against P. aeruginosa and S. aureus similar to clorhexidine (p>0,05). In relation to C. albicans, the antifungal effect, although inferior to clorhexidine, should not disregarded. The data obtained suggest that propolis may be used as a good substitute for chlorhexidine without its adverse effects in controlling microorganisms from HIV positive patients.