What is Propolis?

Propolis also known as bee glue is a ‘natural resinous mixture produced by honeybees from substances collected from parts of plants, buds and exudates.’Bees mainly use propolis to close any gaps or openings in their hives, keeping it clean and secure from intruders and weather. Propolis is made of approximately 50% resins, 30% waxes, 10% essential oils and 5% pollen and 5% various organic compounds. The exact composition of propolis can vary as bees have access to different plants and trees around the world.

The use of propolis in medicine goes back hundreds of years but only more recently are the true benefits being discovered and new studies are emerging all the time. Propolis has over 500 bioactive molecules which includes polyphenols, terpenoids, amino acids, vitamins and minerals that have proven antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, anticancer and antioxidant properties.

Why is Propolis Beneficial?

One of the reasons propolis is beneficial to immune health is thanks to its high content of polyphenols (phenols) which are a category of compounds found in plants. They are powerful antioxidants that can support our cellular health by fighting off free radicals that can cause oxidative stress in the body which leads to many diseases and illnesses.

As the colder months approach propolis can be used to support the immune system by improving the body’s natural defence against bacteria, viruses and fungal infections thanks to its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. Studies have shown propolis to be able to stimulate and increase the number of immune cells that are needed to defend the body against these illnesses and increase antibody production, making the immune system more effective.

Propolis is also effective against inflammation in the body, inflammation is something best kept to a minimum as it can lead to chronic illnesses. The flavonoids in propolis can reduce the production of enzymes that cause inflammation.

Propolis is definitely a secret weapon needed in everyone’s medicine cabinet that can help keep the whole family healthy as winter approaches. It can be found in many forms including capsules,tablets, throat sprays, tinctures, lozenges and ointments.

If you are allergic to bees, please speak to your Doctor before trying any bee related products. If you have and illness or taking medication, please speak to your Doctor before you start using propolis.