We all have heard about numerous bee products and the benefits they offer. Bee propolis is another substance produced by the bees from materials collected from tree buds. It is found in small quantities in honey but is widely available in supplement form. As immune health is a hot topic, bee propolis is gaining equal popularity. What is so unique about this nature’s powerful defense system? Here is everything you need to know about bee propolis!
What is Bee Propolis?
Bee propolis is a resinous substance produced by the honey bees using the material collected from the tree buds. This mixture is mainly used as a sealing to safeguard the cells of the beehives. In addition, it is used for the inside lining of nest cavities and for repairing the honeycomb. The bees do this to protect the hive from external climatic conditions & to reduce the risk of viruses & bacteria.
Propolis has potent antimicrobial properties that help protect the bees from pathogens. Various studies have proved that propolis composition is quite complex, and it consists of about 300 separate compounds. Roughly, propolis usually consists of –
- Vegetable & tree resins – 50%
- Essential oils – 10%
- Beeswax – 30%
- Pollen particles – 3%
What are The Health Benefits of Propolis?
As the properties & components of propolis are pretty promising, numerous studies have proved its effectiveness in curing certain health conditions in humans.
- Burn & Wound Treatment –
Propolis has proved to be effective in improving the healing time of burns & wounds. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine has published a study. A group of researchers compared the effects of propolis-based skin cream with other burn & wound treating ointments like silver sulfadiazine.
Results of the study showed that propolis and silver sulfadiazine were both successful in treating burns & wounds. Additionally, propolis seemed to offer more prominent anti-inflammatory benefits than silver sulfadiazine.
- Genital Herpes –
It has been found that propolis may work as an alternative treatment for genital or oral herpes. Herpes is mainly caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). HSV-1 ordinarily causes oral herpes, which can cause mouth ulcers. HSV-2 is sexually transmitted, and it causes an infection that can cause painful blisters on the genitals.
In a study published in Phytomedicine, a total of about 90 men & women having genital herpes were given an ointment containing flavonoids that are sourced from propolis, an ointment with acyclovir, or a placebo ointment. It was later found that ointment containing flavonoids sourced from propolis was more effective than the other two ointments.
- Oral Health –
Propolis also seems to prevent calcium phosphate, the principal part of dental plaque. Propolis and honey are also antibacterial, making them helpful as ingredients in dental care products.
As indicated in a small study, propolis essentially reduces bacterial growth in the saliva of people with periodontitis.
- Diabetes Management –
In an animal study, it was found that propolis may aid in the treatment of diabetes. First, a test was conducted on diabetic rats and later it was found that propolis maintains the blood sugar levels and reduces cholesterol in rats. However, a solid study is still required to know its effects on diabetic humans.
- Gastrointestinal Disorders –
Several types of research have suggested that propolis can help treat gastrointestinal disorders, including gastrointestinal cancers, colitis, and ulcers. In addition, as propolis constitutes galangin, kaempferol, caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), and artepillin C, it effectively eliminates pathogens, including H.pylori.
- Some Other Benefits –
It soothes away skin irritation, burns, and inflammation. Bee propolis fights free radicals and reduces the risk of other diseases. In addition, it slows down skin oil production, prevents acne, rejuvenates & renews skin to give a more youthful appearance.
How to Consume Propolis?
Propolis is now available in different forms such as capsules, oral sprays, and drops. It is recommended to consume once a day to support a healthy immune system. It is found in several creams, lotions, ointments, and other such personal care products for topical usage. To gain maximum benefits, always buy Geohoney’s 100% natural propolis powder or propolis liquid, free from sweeteners, colors, artificial flavors, and preservatives. All those allergic to bee products and pregnant women should always consult the physician before taking bee propolis.
When to Consume Propolis?
Generally, it is to take it with your regular breakfast in the morning. It is suggested to take it with food or a source of fat that increases its absorption rate. It can be applied any time of the day for topical usage, but the best is to apply it before going to bed.
Like honey, propolis also varies in composition depending upon the material collected by the bees, the type of bees that made it, the geographical region that produced it, and several other factors. Because of its rich properties, propolis has changed people’s lives. Everyone should try including it in their daily diet to see what beneficial impacts it can pose on their health.
