Author: cest-pharma

Complete Nutritional Support for Breeding, Molting and Recovery

Post author By cest-pharma
Post date February 24, 2026

We created this product to be the basis for increasing reproductive performance in pigeons. Its components have the role of protecting and replenishing the body’s nutrient reserves, which is essential during periods of maximum physiological activity (breeding, egg-laying, moulting, etc.), but also in situations of recovery after competitions, illnesses, convalescence, heat stress, transport. To the same extent, it will significantly reduce the state of exhaustion of the body which is always accompanied by massive losses of energy and nutrients.

The natural substances essential to the structure of cartilage, ligaments and tendons (glucosamine, chondroitin, methyl sulphonylmethane) together with the complex of vitamins and minerals, are nutritional elements for the musculoskeletal system and actively intervene in the harmonious development of the skeleton and muscle mass. During molting periods, it contributes to the formation of a healthy, brightly colored and shiny plumage, and after physical exertion, it ensures the restoration of muscle fibers, tissue regeneration and the reduction of inflammatory phenomena.

The probiotics in the composition contribute to the development of beneficial intestinal micro-flora, leading to the formation of a solid microbiome, with a major role in the body’s immunity. The positive effects it generates consist of:

– increasing the absorption of essential nutrients (vitamins, minerals, amino acids, etc.) which will subsequently participate in protein synthesis

– supporting the health of the digestive system by inhibiting the development of infectious microorganisms: E. coli, Salmonella, etc.)

– ensuring good transit and restoring balance after periods of illness. – protecting the body from various infections by strengthening the intestinal barrier, thus blocking the entry of pathogens and unwanted substances into the bloodstream.

Betaine and electrolytes (sodium, potassium, magnesium, chlorine) reduce the negative effects of dehydration on the one hand, and on the other hand, they lead to a decrease in energy requirements through osmoregulation. This is because these nutritional principles have an osmolyte character that protects cells from dehydration by maintaining the balance of water and ions, which is an energy-consuming process. In this way, energy metabolism is made more efficient.

Vitamins: A, D3, E, C, K3, B complex, minerals: magnesium, iron, zinc, manganese, sodium, potassium) contribute to:

– the formation and maintenance of optimal conditions of the skin and mucous membranes.

– the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, essential for maintaining bone health but also for the development of the skeleton in chickens

– the reduction of hemorrhagic lesions that occur as a result of parasites or various infectious diseases.

– Antioxidant role, protects against oxidative degradation, preventing the formation of toxic free radicals and the oxidation of unsaturated fatty acids.

– reducing the risk of diseases by strengthening the immune system,

– contributes to the production of collagen

– maintains the health of blood vessels

– synthesis of blood cells, reduces the risk of anemia, – stimulates metabolic processes.

In addition:

– Potassium is found in erythrocytes, muscles, heart, brain.

– The level of protein assimilated by the body depends on the amount of minerals in the diet. – sodium chloride intervenes in the secretion of proteolytic enzymes, improves appetite and stimulates the digestibility of nutrients.

It is recommended to use:

during mating and moulting periods
for strong immunity
prevention of vitamin and amino acid deficiencies,
development of beneficial intestinal flora
maintains the health of the skin, mucous membranes and plumage
reduces the feeling of fatigue and exhaustion
stimulates energy production
antioxidant effect, protects against cellular degradation
during periods of preparation for competitions and with high risks of illness
rapid recovery after intense efforts

Cest Naturals

AdenoColi Natura – Advanced Herbal Protection Against E. coli and Bacterial Infections

Post author By cest-pharma
Post date February 23, 2026

Medications that are usually added to feed, especially as a preventive measure against disease, can lead to the development of resistance in parasites or other microbes. In this way, birds remain carriers, become reinfected, and maintain the infection within the flock. In addition, chemical substances have a high degree of toxicity, especially to the liver. Moreover, the prohibition or limitation of antibiotic therapy has led to an increased incidence of digestive and respiratory infections in birds.

Avian colibacillosis caused by Escherichia coli is the most widespread and harmful bacterial disease among birds. The infection may be localized or systemic, with various clinical signs ranging from respiratory tract infections and white or watery droppings to swollen head syndrome. Youngsters with colibacillosis often present typical lesions: perihepatitis, airsacculitis, pericarditis, peritonitis, salpingitis, coligranuloma, omphalitis, cellulitis, embryonic death, septicemia, and osteomyelitis/arthritis in adult birds.

As a result, mild to moderate chronic E. coli infection often causes reduced feed intake, decreased body weight, lower egg production and hatchability rate, and poorer feed conversion ratio. Severe and acute E. coli infection is usually responsible for higher morbidity and mortality in young chicks and older birds, as well as decreased performance.

Colibacillosis in youngsters often occurs during respiratory syndrome caused by Mycoplasma gallisepticum infection or viral agents such as infectious bronchitis, Newcastle disease, and avian influenza. In addition, immunosuppressive diseases (infectious bursal disease) and stress caused by environmental factors such as overcrowding or high levels of dust and ammonia that enter through oral and respiratory routes also lead to systemic E. coli infection in chicks.

The phenomenon of antibiotic resistance not only raises new challenges for the rational and effective use of antibiotics but also creates many difficulties in preventing and controlling E. coli infection. Furthermore, the recent reduction or prohibition of antimicrobial use has hindered the treatment of avian colibacillosis. Consequently, the incidence of systemic E. coli infections and mortality rates has gradually increased. Therefore, exploring natural substances with effective and safe anti-infective properties is of great importance in controlling E. coli infections.

In vitro studies have demonstrated that several natural plant-derived extracts such as thyme, carvacrol, cinnamaldehyde, turmeric, garlic, citral, etc., may inhibit or kill Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, including Salmonella, E. coli, Campylobacter, and Clostridium perfringens, without harming beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus spp.

Garlic contains essential oils with allicin as the main active compound. Alliin is enzymatically converted by alliinase into allicin, a compound responsible for the characteristic odor. Allicin compounds have strong antibacterial activity. Garlic contains at least 33 sulfur compounds, 17 amino acids, several enzymes, and minerals. These sulfur compounds give garlic its distinctive sharp smell and clinical effects. Another important garlic compound is inulin, which appears to lower digestive pH in birds when fed garlic due to the prebiotic effects of inulin and its hydrolysates, helping beneficial intestinal flora colonization.

Thyme effectively reduces the growth of E. coli and Salmonella Typhimurium, as established in vitro. Cinnamon essential oil (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) has antibacterial properties against Klebsiella spp., E. coli, Listeria monocytogenes, and Bacillus spp. Moreover, cinnamon essential oil has been reported to have genuine natural antibiotic properties in poultry.

Cinnamon powder extract shows strong antimicrobial activity due to its high content of volatile components (mainly cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, and carvacrol). Thus, cinnamon oil has proven effects against Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Enterococcus faecalis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella spp., Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli. Furthermore, it has strong antioxidant, analgesic, and anticandidal activities. It has also been shown to disrupt the growth of numerous pathogenic bacteria and stimulate beneficial bacteria growth in the digestive tract of birds.

Turmeric powder extract is a primary source of phenolic compounds such as curcumin, bisdemethoxycurcumin, demethoxycurcumin, and tetrahydrocurcuminoids. These bioactive compounds are yellow pigments with antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antiparasitic, and antihepatotoxic activities. It also helps control coccidiosis, mutagenicity, and aflatoxin-induced hepatocarcinogenicity. It is successfully used as a growth promoter in broiler chickens and improves intestinal health. When added to feed, it significantly reduces intestinal Clostridium perfringens load and inhibits Salmonella typhimurium colonization. Curcumin has confirmed efficacy against Streptococcus pyogenes, S. aureus, Acinetobacter iwoffii, Enterococcus faecalis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella enteritica, E. coli, Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Mycoplasma spp. It has also been reported to have a coccidiostatic effect similar to sodium salinomycin against Eimeria spp.

Fennel has remarkable antioxidant, antimicrobial, and hepatoprotective properties. It is rich in linolenic and stearic fatty acids and contains limonene, fenchone, phellandrene, cis-ocimene, p-cymene, gamma-terpinene, anethole, alpha-pinene, camphene, sabinene, beta-myrcene, estragole, safrole, beta-pinene, camphor, and other volatile components. Due to this complex composition, fennel exhibits antioxidant, immunological, and antimicrobial activity and stimulates performance in birds.

Active ingredients in fennel seeds, such as anethole and estragole, stimulate bile acid secretion and digestive enzymes such as protease, lipase, amylase, and maltase, facilitating digestion and increasing feed intake in birds. Fennel seeds increase appetite, stimulate endogenous digestive enzymes, and trigger immune responses. Like other medicinal plants, fennel has antibacterial and antibiotic properties that help reduce undesirable intestinal microorganisms and improve digestion. Improved weight gain and feed conversion ratio following fennel supplementation have been reported in broilers and laying birds.

Oregano (Origanum vulgare L.) used in poultry feed exerts antibacterial, antioxidant, and antifungal activity, stimulates digestive enzyme secretion, and helps reduce the severity of digestive and respiratory disorders. These functional effects are explained by the presence of secondary metabolites such as carvacrol and thymol. Oregano is considered a valuable alternative for improving gastrointestinal functional performance, especially in broilers and young birds. The genus Origanum is included among highly active antitrichomonal compounds and also acts against coccidiosis. These plants are rich in p-cymene, gamma-terpinene, and thymol, the active principles responsible for antitrichomonal action.

AdenoColi is a natural remedy that should be included in the control protocol of rapidly spreading diseases such as digestive and respiratory bacterial infections (E. coli, Salmonella, Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus, Mycoplasma, Clostridia, Klebsiella, etc.).

After years of research on the effectiveness of medicinal plants in the prophylaxis and therapy of infectious diseases in birds, we can now state that natural extracts represent an alternative in combating infectious diseases. Additionally, they support recovery after illness.

Our formula contains highly pharmacologically effective bioactive substances. The components were included based on laboratory-proven antimicrobial activity.

Administration: 5 g per 1 kg of feed, accompanied by a balanced diet enriched with vitamins and minerals and very good hygiene conditions

Uncategorized

Herbasan – Natural way to health

Post author By cest-pharma
Post date September 12, 2025

It is an alternative source to the use of antibiotics in diets, which is a big problem because they develop resistant strains of pathogens, and infectious diseases risk becoming untreatable, this aspect also involving human health because they are common infectious agents.

Having citric acid, oregano essential oil and cinnamon essential oil in its composition, our product rich in phytomolecules is recommended when you want:

– maintaining general health by increasing immunity, but also by good control of pathogens (E.Coli, Salmonella, Pasteurella, Mycoplasma, etc.) that the components exert

– developing the microbiome, which means a solid intestinal immunity and an optimization of digestion with positive effects on nutrient absorption

– increasing sports performance – decreasing the risk of diseases

The two main bioactive ingredients in oregano oil, carvacrol and thymol, have antibacterial, antioxidant, antiviral, antiparasitic and immunomodulatory when administered to pigeons. Carvacrol and thymol have been studied for their potential effect on intestinal barrier function, which plays a crucial role in maintaining intestinal health. These compounds may help reduce inflammation in the gut, protect and maintain intestinal integrity, control the growth of harmful bacteria in the gut, and improve pigeon performance. Oregano oil is a natural alternative to antibiotics for improving gut health and barrier function in pigeons. It is known for its ability to combat bacteria that commonly cause disease in pigeons, such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella, and Clostridium, and is currently recommended for use in feed in place of antibiotics.

Respiratory diseases represent a significant component of the overall incidence of disease in pigeons. In many cases, respiratory diseases detected in pigeon flocks may represent part of a prevalent disease originating in other biosystems. For example: various microbial agents can trigger respiratory syndromes, and environmental problems can increase the effect of such pathogens, leading to more severe cases of disease. Pathogens such as Ornithobacterium rhinotracheale, Escherichia coli, Avibacterium paragallinarum, Pasteurella multocida, Mycoplasma gallisepticum, and Bordetella avium have been frequently isolated from birds suffering from complex respiratory diseases. Cinnamon essential oil has been shown in various studies to reduce the virulence of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Avibacterium paragallinarum, Pasteurella multocida, Mycoplasma gallisepticum, and Ornithobacterium rhinotracheale. The antimicrobial effect of cinnamon essential oil against various bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterococcus faecalis, Salmonella spp., and Vibrio parahaemolyticus has also been demonstrated. The predominant active compound in cinnamon oil is cinnamaldehyde.

Citric acid (CA) is a weak organic acid, a natural preservative that occurs in small amounts in a variety of fruits and vegetables, especially citrus fruits. Its inclusion in bird diets has been shown to decrease colonization of pathogens and limit the production of toxic metabolites, improve the availability of proteins, minerals such as Ca, P, Mg and Zn, and serve as a substrate in intermediary metabolism. Its addition to drinking water is beneficial for intestinal health and from a sanitary point of view. Its inclusion in the diet improves the performance and non-specific immunity of pigeons. It also increases specific immunity against New Castle disease in the chicks. Their effect in pigeon diets can also suppress the growth of pathogens and improve digestion, absorption, and immunity of the intestinal mucosa. It increases pepsin secretion through proteolysis and the release of hormones, which regulate the digestion and absorption of proteins.

Notice the beneficial effects that the product offers:

– Weight gain, due to muscle development

– Decrease in the rate of illness

– Increased resistance to stress (transport, heat, humidity, vaccinations, etc.)

– Significant improvement in health

administering 5ml Herbasan to 1 L of drinking water every day.

Uncategorized

RONIDAZOLE 10%

Post author By cest-pharma
Post date September 5, 2025

It is a drug for racing and fancy pigeons that is effective in the treatment and prevention of trichomoniasis and hexamithiasis, caused by Trichomonas coloumbae and, respectively, Hexamita columbae. These are protozoa caused by parasites with digestive localization, which appear especially during the mating season and cause latent and subclinical infections.

Ronidazole, the active pharmaceutical ingredient, is rapidly absorbed into the body, reaching therapeutic concentrations shortly after administration. It is preferred in the treatment of infections caused by the protozoa Trichomonas, Hexamita, because it is more effective than metronidazole, even though both belong to the same groups.

In pigeons, trichomoniasis is localized at the level of the oral, pharyngeal and inguinal mucosa, being recognized by the formation of fibrinous, detachable deposits. At the level of the intestine and liver, the evolution is slower with more discreet symptoms. It can also appear in the upper respiratory tract (“cornea”). It especially affects young birds, the most sensitive being young pigeons at the age of 3-4 months. In case of contamination, if treatment is not administered immediately, the incidence reaches 100%, and mortality can occur in more than half of the flock. Trichomonas live a very long time in the host organism, even exceeding 2 years. It is easy to understand that pigeons are long-term carriers and are in fact the most important source of infection.

Histomonosis affects the liver and digestive tract and is spread by carrier birds. It usually occurs on a low immune background and an unbalanced diet. If immediate treatment is not instituted, mortality can reach 100%. The disease manifests itself through foamy, yellow diarrhea with a fetid odor, severe weight loss. Ronidazole is effective in combating the disease. To ensure therapeutic success, anthelmintics, such as Worm Tab, should also be administered.

The product is well tolerated in therapeutic doses and should not cause side effects. It is a product with very good water solubility that should be administered daily for 1 week. For prevention, repeat the administration every 2-2.5 months.

For increased effectiveness, use together with Triconatur and Tricogo. In addition, good prophylaxis is also done by ensuring a balanced diet rich in nutrients and that provides the necessary protein and factors that contribute to the health of the digestive tract (Protein plus, Fly power, BDC, Detox plus, Biotics, etc.).

Tags canker, pigeons, racing pigeons, trichomonosis

Uncategorized

The role of natural components in supporting the health of racing pigeons throughout the year

Post author By cest-pharma
Post date June 12, 2025

Example of practical application: Detox Plus and Moor Active

Maintaining the health of racing pigeons throughout the year requires an integrated nutritional approach, adapted to each physiological stage: reproduction, growth, moulting, competition and the cold season. In this context, the use of products with biological action, such as Moor Active (peat-based) and Detox Plus (clay + garlic and cinnamon oil), can bring clear benefits through the properties of humic acids, natural sulfuric substances and phytotherapeutic extracts.

1. Humic and fulvic acids – metabolic and intestinal protective effects

Moor Active is an example of a product based on purified peat, rich in humic and fulvic acids. These compounds contribute to:

• lowering intestinal pH and controlling pathogenic microbial flora;

• protecting the digestive mucosa and improving transit;

• forming complexes with toxins and heavy metals, contributing to their elimination from the body;

• increasing the absorption of essential minerals such as iron, zinc and manganese;

• supporting protein and lipid metabolism, with direct effects on the development of muscle mass and plumage. In young pigeons, these effects translate into faster growth, better feed conversion and increased resistance to intestinal infections.

2. Garlic, cinnamon and clay extract – antimicrobial and detoxifying effect

Detox Plus combines natural clay with concentrated garlic and cinnamon extracts, providing:

• selective antibacterial action (E. coli, Salmonella spp., Staphylococcus aureus);

• protection of beneficial intestinal flora (Lactobacillus);

• internal and respiratory antiparasitic effect;

• mucolytic, expectorant and anti-inflammatory effect in respiratory diseases;

• liver detoxification and stimulation of nutrient absorption;

• supply of essential sulfur compounds for moulting, skin and joints. These properties justify the use of Detox Plus in all critical periods of the biological cycle, but especially during the growth of chicks, the competition season and moulting

3. Applicability depending on the stage of the pigeon year

Breeding

• Moor Active: supports fertility by balancing mineral and protein metabolism.

• Detox Plus: reduces the risk of bacterial contamination in the aviary and strengthens the immunity of the breeders.

Raising youngsters

• Moor Active: protects the fragile digestive mucosa of the chicks, reduces the risk of chick disease.

• Detox Plus: fights parasites, supports the respiratory system and supports harmonious development.

Moulting

• Moor Active: promotes the absorption of minerals necessary for plumage restoration.

• Detox Plus: the sulfur content contributes to keratin synthesis and intensifies feather pigmentation.

Racing season

• Moor Active: supports digestive and metabolic recovery after exercise.

• Detox Plus: protects the respiratory tract, reduces oxidative stress and detoxifies the liver.

Cold season / rest

• Moor Active: anti-inflammatory and immunostimulating background effects. • Detox Plus: prevents the accumulation of toxins and maintains overall immune status.

4. Administration Guide

Product: Moor Active

Recommended dose: 10 ml/kg feed

Usage steps: 2-3 days/week or 5-7 consecutive days in critical periods

Observations: Can be administered together with vitamins.

Product: Detox Plus

Recommended dose: 5 g/kg feed

Usage steps: 2x/week in reproduction, chicks, moulting, Day 3 and 4 after the race, 21 days + 7 break in the cold season Observations: The medication is administered 2-3 hours after the product.

Conclusions

The Moor Active and Detox Plus products represent practical examples of the use of natural components with an essential role in:

• regulating digestion and metabolism,

• detoxifying the body,

• supporting liver and respiratory function,

• strengthening immunity,

• improving general condition and performance in competitions. Their rational use, correlated with the physiological stage of the pigeon, can make the difference between a season affected by diseases and a successful season.

Uncategorized

Importance of tea to the pigeons

Post author By cest-pharma
Post date June 2, 2025

PIGEONS TEA is recommended for pigeons as a food supplement. It has a complex composition of medicinal plants with a role in stimulating intestinal function, improving liver function and inhibiting prooxidant enzymes by supplementing the content of antioxidants.

Also, PIGEONS TEA added to the food enhances the sensory value and increases the nutritional value, so that the appetite is stimulated, the absorption processes of minerals and other nutritional principles are optimized, the level of vitamin B and folate increases, strengthening immunity.

The use of natural products and medicinal plants in the pigeon diet is particularly important because secondary metabolites such as triterpenoids, coumarins, alkaloids, tannins and flavonoids have anti-inflammatory, antiparasitic, antimicrobial, antioxidant and astringent properties.

Also, phytobiotics in pigeon feed reduce diarrheal signs, reduce the risk of viral, bacterial, fungal, parasitic diseases (coccidiosis, trichomoniasis, etc.), prevent body deficiencies and have a beneficial effect on the digestive flora by reducing pathogenic bacteria (E coli, Salmonella, etc.).

Thymus vulgaris is a rich source of carvacrol and thymol with antioxidant, antifungal and antibacterial activities, and its application can mitigate the negative effects of thermal stress.

Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum L.) have antibacterial and antifungal properties. It improves feed conversion rate and breast development. It is also a natural and safe additive for pigeon feed and can be used as a natural growth promoter and as an alternative to prophylactic treatment with antibiotics.

Urtica dioica is beneficial for joint health and reducing inflammation, it is an excellent source of calcium and other minerals, which maintain osteo-articular health.

Salvia rosmarinus is a rich source of phytochemicals and due to its volatile oil has positive effects on health. Rosemary is the plant frequently used against coccidiosis, because it can treat and prevent coccidiosis by simultaneously regulating the life cycle of Eimeria sp., antioxidant status, host immunity and intestinal microflora.

Eucalyptus globulus is particularly valuable because its rich terpene content has antiseptic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antifungal effects. It has positive effects on breathing.

Origanum majoranam is one of the most recommended remedies for digestive disorders, it is anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antiseptic.

Althaeae officials has a high content of mucilage that form a protective layer on the digestive and respiratory mucous membranes, soothing irritations and inflammations (throat, pharynx, stomach, intestines). Mallow mucilage helps to hydrate the respiratory tract and contributes to healthy digestion and the protection of the stomach mucosa.

Quercus cortex (oak bark) is an adjuvant in the treatment of diarrhea, heavy metal poisoning (by reducing their absorption at the digestive level), inflammation of the oral cavity and pharynx.

Solidago virgaurea stimulates metabolic processes, improves liver function, and relieves candidiasis due to its antifungal properties.

Matracaria chamomilla bases its pharmacological action on its constituents: sesquiterpenes, flavonoids, coumarins and polyacetylenes. It has gastroprotective, hepatoprotective, antiviral effects.

Used in gastrointestinal diseases, hepatobiliary diseases, respiratory diseases. It has a remineralizing effect.

Glycyrrhiza glabra reduces inflammation and soothes digestive problems. Its active compounds are effective against a wide range of bacteria and viruses. Licorice also helps protect the liver from damage caused by toxic agents. Treats upper respiratory infections due to its antiviral and antibacterial properties. Licorice also helps keep the airways open by promoting the elimination of mucus.

So, offer this TEA to your pigeons to keep them healthy and in optimal health. It helps digestion, improves physical condition and maintains an optimal metabolism. Infuse a teaspoon of tea in 1000 ml of boiling water and let it rest for about 10 minutes with the lid on the container. Filter, let it cool and offer the pigeons as a drink. Do not offer the tea to your pigeons on the day of boarding!

COMPOSITION: Thymus vulgaris, Urtica dioica, Salvia rosmarinus, Eucalyptus globulus, Origanum majoranam, Althaeae officinalis, Quercus cortex, Solidago virgaurea, Matracaria chamomilla, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Syzygium aromaticum.

Tags immunity, pigeons tea, tea

Uncategorized

**The Effectiveness of Propolis Against Bacteria, Candida albicans, and Trichomonas gallinae Isolated from Pigeons – A Possible Alternative to Antibiotics**

Post author By cest-pharma
Post date April 8, 2025

Antimicrobial resistance is one of the most serious human and animal health issues of our time. For example, Candida albicans strains isolated from pigeons are increasingly showing resistance to clotrimazole, natamycin, flucytosine, amphotericin B, ketoconazole, nystatin, and econazole.

Racing pigeons play a key role in the spread of resistance as they travel hundreds of kilometers in a single race, providing an opportunity for the dissemination of resistant bacteria.

Propolis is a natural substance with antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant, antiproliferative, antifungal, antiparasitic, anti-inflammatory, antiprotozoal, immunomodulatory, hepatoprotective, antitumoral, cytotoxic, and wound-healing properties. Propolis acts through its numerous biologically active molecules, such as polyphenols and terpenoids.

Ádám Kerek et al. conducted a study to investigate the effectiveness of propolis against Staphylococcus spp., Enterococcus spp., Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica, Candida albicans, and Trichomonas gallinae isolated from pigeons. For each pathogen, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum eradication concentration (MEC) were determined for eight isolates using ethanolic extracts of propolis at concentrations of 96%, 90%, 80%, 70%, and 60%.

The study showed that propolis is effective in inhibiting the growth of bacteria, Candida albicans, and Trichomonas gallinae strains. Its effectiveness against Gram-positive bacteria was, in some cases, comparable to that of antibiotics, suggesting propolis as a potential alternative for wound infection treatments. Its remarkable efficacy against Trichomonas gallinae is especially promising as an alternative treatment for this common pigeon infection. It also proved effective against Candida albicans strains:

Candida albicans: MIC values between 1.56 and 400 μg/mL; MEC values between 3.125 and 800 μg/mL
Trichomonas gallinae: MEC values between 2.5 and 5 mg/mL
Staphylococcus spp.: MIC values between 1.56–400 μg/mL; MEC values between 12.5–3260 μg/mL
Enterococcus spp.: MIC values between 1.56–400 μg/mL; MEC values between 12.5–800 μg/mL

Escherichia coli and Salmonella enterica: MIC values >13,000 μg/mL

Antimicrobial Mechanisms of Action of Propolis:

Antibacterial activity is attributed to inhibition of nucleic acid synthesis, reduced motility, disruption of cell membrane function, energy metabolism inhibition, biofilm formation prevention, damage to membrane proteins, altered membrane permeability, and reduction of bacterial resistance.
Against fungi (Candida albicans), propolis disrupts the cell membrane through depolarization and induces apoptosis. It also inhibits the expression of several genes related to pathogenicity, cellular adhesion, biofilm formation, and phenotypic switching. Phenotypic switching, particularly hyphae formation, is one of the key virulence factors in fungi. Candida albicans is the most common pathogenic yeast, with its hyphal form able to penetrate epithelial and endothelial tissues, causing damage.
Antiparasitic action of propolis involves several mechanisms. It interferes with phospholipid metabolism, lowering levels of phosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylinositol – both vital components of cell membranes. Additionally, flavonoids such as chalcones significantly inhibit parasite growth. 2,6-dihydroxy-4-methoxy-chalcone enhances sterol content and alters cellular and mitochondrial membrane composition, changing structure and fluidity. Rosmarinic acid and apigenin cause cell lysis, cytoplasmic condensation, and nuclear DNA aggregation. Resveratrol damages the hydrogenosome, a cellular organelle responsible for energy production and redox balance in protozoa. Apigenin and caffeic acid increase the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to mitochondrial swelling and apoptosis. Quercetin acts as an iron chelator, while oleanolic acid inhibits surface protease activity essential for host cell entry. Kaempferol affects the expression of the heavy chain of actin and myosin II, impairing parasite adhesion.

T. gallinae is a protozoan that causes yellowish-white deposits in pigeons, typically in the upper respiratory tract and pharyngeal cavity. Mortality is very high in chicks and young birds, while adults are often asymptomatic. It is commonly transmitted through drinking water and bird feed.

Here is an example regarding protozoan viability and propolis activity against T. gallinae: After sample collection, the number of protozoa was counted after 24, 48, and 72 hours. Results clearly show that after 48 hours, the number of protozoa decreased, and they even died in sample 11 (Figure 1).

Figure 1. Initial number of protozoa at 24, 48, and 72 hours/mL for each Trichomonas gallinae strain. A gradual decrease in protozoa count can be clearly observed.

Conclusions

The effectiveness of propolis has been demonstrated through numerous experiments, with results similar to those obtained in the cited study.

Due to variations in geographic origin and composition, propolis may present different MIC values in different countries. MEC* values are consistently equal to or greater than MIC values. However, the substantial variability observed in propolis may significantly reduce the likelihood of resistance development compared to antibiotics.
Infection with Trichomonas gallinae is widespread among pigeons, and these findings suggest that propolis shows promise as an alternative to antibiotics for its treatment. It may be used as a topical treatment when applied directly to the oral cavity or mixed with drinking water, potentially replacing ronidazole use.
Propolis also showed remarkable effectiveness against C. albicans.
Our research confirmed high efficacy against Gram-positive bacteria. These results suggest that propolis could serve as an effective alternative treatment for external infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria.

The MEC (Minimum Eradication Concentration) refers to the lowest concentration of a substance required to reduce the number of microorganisms by at least four orders of magnitude, effectively eradicating them. In this study, MEC values are used to assess the effectiveness of propolis in completely eliminating Trichomonas gallinae and other pathogens.

Ádám Kerek, Péter Csanády, Barbara Tuska-Szalay, László Kovács and Ákos Jerzsele, In Vitro Efficacy of Hungarian Propolis against Bacteria, Yeast, and Trichomonas gallinae Isolated from Pigeons—A Possible Antibiotic Alternative?, Resources 2023

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