Heralded as the medicine of the 21st century, Bee Propolis is lauded for the numerous positive effects it imparts to our bodies. As a natural antibiotic, it exhibits antibacterial and anti-inflammatory actions, and unlike synthetic antibiotics, it does not incite bacterial resistance or disrupt our natural gut flora. Experts recommend propolis creams for treating eczemas, acne, and lichen. Apply a thin layer twice daily for best results. Meanwhile, bees’ product, propolis, has re-emerged over the past decade, despite its long-standing use.
Gaining equal footing with lemons, honey, and various teas in home medicine cabinets, this quartet has become an inseparable force in combating colds, the flu, and general weaknesses (such as stress and fatigue). One can find Propolis in every pharmacy as a tincture (an alcohol solution), tablets, or in health food stores.
This mixture of wax and other sticky materials assists bees in strengthening honeycombs and sealing cracks. It disinfects the cells in which bees reside, due to its high content of essential oils boasting antibiotic properties. Therefore, it appears as a resinous mass, ranging from yellow-green to dark red. With time, its hue darkens, thus giving store-bought Propolis its characteristic dark-red shade.
Bee Propolis for Health
Despite its bitter taste, people readily consume Propolis, acknowledging it as a highly healthful substance, albeit one with a less appealing flavor. If you’re not a fan of the tincture, you can dissolve the drops in lukewarm water with a spoonful of honey, or drip it directly onto the honey itself. Alternatively, you can always opt for tablets, which have a rather pleasant taste yet still contain all necessary substances.
Propolis boasts a high content of wax, resins, and balsams, with a considerably smaller yet far from negligible percentage of pollen, tannins, and essential oils. Similar to its effect on bees, it wields comparable influence on us. Exhibiting both anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, propolis also fosters tissue regeneration. Applying it daily to minor cuts aids swift healing. Furthermore, it bolsters our body’s defense mechanisms.
Propolis is an integral part of many cosmetic preparations
Certainly, one should note that various creams and cosmetic products incorporate Propolis, a fact confirmable at herbal pharmacies. Experienced beekeepers suggest keeping a piece of Propolis in your mouth to combat throat inflammation. Although some claim it prevents allergies, those allergic to bee products should certainly avoid it.
Some of these claims have clinical validation, but always keep in mind that the chemical composition of Propolis can vary based on the region (northern parts of Europe, South America, etc.) and may not suit everyone equally.
Stick with trusted manufacturers, particularly those approved by competent institutions. Another point made evident by numerous advertisements is Propolis’ role in oral hygiene, as experts believe it reduces the occurrence of cavities thanks to its antimicrobial property.
Therapeutic Benefits of Propolis
Colds and Flu – Propolis strengthens immunity and has long been employed to alleviate the mentioned ailments. Applying Propolis to your chest area before sleep can soothe coughing.
Acne – This simple, efficient, and wholly natural treatment is remarkably effective against acne. To achieve successful results, it’s necessary to apply Propolis several times a day to the affected skin areas. A similar effect can be attained by applying a mixture of honey and Propolis.
Sexual Energy – Athletes have been using Propolis for centuries to augment energy levels and endurance, attributes necessary for a vibrant sexual life. Chronic prostate problems are the result of an accumulation of free oxygen radicals in seminal fluid. These radicals cause “burns” at the cellular level, and Propolis mitigates this unpleasant sensation, enhancing pleasure during sexual intercourse.
Bee Propolis is a natural antibiotic and antiseptic that effectively treats mouth ulcers and sore throats. Apply a bit of Propolis to a cotton swab and press it against the mouth ulcer.
Hold it there for a few seconds, then remove the swab. Propolis is sticky and will form a protective film over the wound, thereby shielding it from bacteria and accelerating the healing process.
Propolis Drops Health Benefits
Primarily created with alcohol, propolis drops cater to human needs. You can consume these drops year-round to boost your immunity. Moreover, they serve as a treatment for illnesses and diverse infections.
Propolis drops dosage – For regular use, they can be taken twice daily, ten drops each time. Propolis has a proven antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effect. It has been used since ancient times to treat many conditions and diseases, some of which include:
- Sore throat
- Mouth ulcers
- Strengthening immunity
- Infection control
- Burn and wound treatment
- Skin disease treatment
- Liver protection and regeneration
- Disease defense
- Reducing the risk of tumor development
Bee Propolis for Children – There are also alcohol-free propolis drops, dissolved in propylene glycol, although its long-term use is not recommended. The alcohol-free Propolis drops are for children.
Child-friendly Propolis Drops – The usage is made easier with colorless Propolis drops, so the solution won’t stain dishes or clothes. They are also available as a spray to make it easier to administer to a child suffering from a sore throat.
How to Make Propolis Drops
Ingredients for one measure:
- 10g of propolis
- 100ml of 70% alcohol
- 1 glass bottle or jar
Preparation:
Bees utilize Propolis, a resinous substance, to seal their hives and frames. You can’t grind it due to its nature. So, to prepare, freeze the required Propolis and then crush it finely.
Place this crushed Propolis in a glass bottle or jar, add alcohol, and secure the lid. Let it rest untouched for the first couple of days, then gently agitate it periodically, avoiding excessive foam, until the Propolis fully dissolves. How finely you’ve crushed the Propolis will influence the dissolution time.
