Bees are some of Nature’s busiest creatures. They build intricate hives, produce honey, pollinate flowers and provide health supplements to humans in the form of Honey, Royal Jelly and Propolis. The use of bee propolis as a treatment for various ailments has been around since Ancient Times.
What is Bee Propolis?
Bee Propolis is a sticky substance that bees make, which is also known as “bee glue”. The process begins when an expert Propolis-making bee gathers resin from cone-producing evergreen trees or from the buds of trees. The bee will gather this sticky sap when the proper weather makes it pliable and soft.
After the bee gathers enough, he blends the resin with wax flakes that he stores in the gland of his abdomen. After the bee has shaped it into a ball, he tucks it into the pollen basket that is attached to his leg.
The bee will continue until the basket is full, then take it back to the hive. At this point, the Propolis is unloaded and used to patch up holes in the hive. Bees also use Propolis as an antiseptic barrier, covering invaders with the sticky substance to prevent hive contamination.
Bee Propolis Compared to Royal Jelly and Honey
Bee Propolis, Royal Jelly and Honey are distinct substances produced by bees.
Bee Propolis is a resinous mixture used to seal and protect the hive.
Royal Jelly is a nutrient-rich substance fed exclusively to queen bees.
Honey is a sweet liquid made by bees from flower nectar, serving as an energy source for bees and a natural sweetener for humans.
All three are known for a range of health benefits.
You can also read our articles on Royal Jelly and Honey.
Health Benefits of Bee Propolis
Below we will explore its use in more detail:
Propolis as a Natural Antiseptic
Humans have been using Propolis as an antiseptic since the times of ancient Egypt. Applying Propolis to wounds greatly improved healing, and throughout the centuries this substance has been shown to have other healing properties as well.
In the last several decades, health practitioners have found even more positive uses for Propolis as a natural supplement. Propolis has been shown to increase the effects of other antibiotics like penicillin and can also strengthen the immune system. It has also been used to treat viral infections.
Propolis to Prevent Cancer
Studies are now being done to see if Propolis can become an effective treatment for the prevention of certain types of cancer.
Propolis Contains Powerful Antioxidants
Bee Propolis is rich in amino acids, bioflavonoids, minerals and vitamins. Bioflavonoids are a powerful antioxidant with great health benefits to the immune system and help fight the free radicals that damage healthy red blood cells. The properties contained in propolis also promote better circulation.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
In natural medicine, propolis is used to relieve the symptoms of inflammation. It is also used as a way to treat superficial wounds such as third-degree burns, scalds and ulcers of the skin. Propolis is called the great healer for this very reason.
Other Health Benefits of Bee Propolis
Some users have marvelled at the increased vitality generated by taking this supplement. Propolis has also been known to help grow more beautiful hair and nails, and has been used to help people who have cataracts.
Propolis Lozenges
Propolis lozenges are used as a remedy for sore throat because of the antimicrobial properties that propolis contains. It has strong antifungal properties as well. It works as a treatment for any type of mouth, throat or dental problem like plaque, canker sores and for the prevention of oral disease.
Some health practitioners also believe that propolis can be effective against oral tumors. Used an oral rinse, it can reduce inflammation and irritation in the tissues of the gums, lips and throat.
Other Forms of Propolis
Propolis is also available in capsules, as an ointment and also as a rinse or topical liquid. As a rinse it has the ability to regenerate dental pulp, making it ideal for the prevention of dental caries.
The cream form has numerous uses in the treatment of blemishes, acne and psoriasis. As an acne treatment, propolis has excellent healing abilities.
The cream form is also used for relieving discomfort from herpes outbreaks and the scaling pain of eczema. Creams are versatile and can be combined with other natural ingredients such as aloe for increased skin soothing effects.
Where to Buy
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