Propolis is a natural antibiotic that is quickly gaining popularity in home remedy applications! It’s one of those bee products that really amazes me with the wonder of nature and amazes me with the ability of the highly organized insect – the honey bee. Now, let me tell you what exactly is propolis.
Some trees and conifers produce sticky resins as part of their immune system to ward off disease. Honey bees collect these substances that ooze from the buds of these plants. After chewing them and mixing them with your saliva and other substances, propolis is formed. This nutrient-rich substance is vitally important for the survival of honey bees in the hive. It is created to sterilize the hive and protect it against diseases and infections. Not only does it help inhibit the spread of bacteria, viruses, and fungi that would otherwise pose a significant threat in close-knit neighborhoods, it also helps fight climate changes like wind and cold. It is also used as a “putty” to seal cracks and openings in the hive and to strengthen and repair combs, which is why it is also known as “bee glue”. Another fact that amazes me is that honey bees also use this sticky substance to embalm or “mummify” the corpses of larger insects that invade the hive. Such intruders are immediately stung to death, but because the defending bees cannot carry such heavy bodies out of the hive, they embalm them rather than allow them to decompose. The ancient Egyptians observed this and used propolis as one of the embalming agents for their exquisite mummies!
Propolis contains approximately 50-70% resins, 30% wax, 10% etheric oils and 5% pollen. It is especially rich in amino acids, important for the functioning of the immune system. It is high in vitamins (vitamin A (carotene), vitamin B1, B2, B3, biotin) and extremely rich in bioflavonoids (vitamin P) which are believed to have numerous immune-boosting properties and health benefits. Bioflavonoids are the natural pigments in fruits and vegetables and are found in abundance in oranges. This bee glue contains almost 500 times more bioflavonoids than those found in oranges! It also contains a variety of albumin, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus. Like royal jelly and bee pollen, it contains a number of unidentified compounds that work together synergistically to create a balanced, nutritive substance.
Propolis can be purchased completely raw and unprocessed, but in its natural state it is a sticky substance and very difficult to handle. Some beekeepers package raw propolis and freeze it in small portions. It can then be added to a coffee grinder in its frozen state and ground for easy consumption. Most producers use a process where the active ingredients are ‘leached’ in water or alcohol, then packed in liquid form or dried and encapsulated.
Due to its antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects, this precious substance has been used as a healing agent for many centuries. It has the ability to provide protection against infectious invaders, promote tissue healing and regeneration, and provides a superior source of energy and stamina. It has been used as an ointment to heal cuts and wounds and has shown exceptional value for a wide variety of ailments. It is also used as a natural alternative to penicillin and other antibiotics. It is said to be particularly safe and effective, inhibiting the resistance-building effect that is a negative factor with prescription antibiotics. In the former Eastern Bloc countries, antibiotics have never been widely available, but beekeeping is widely practiced. To help prevent many diseases, hospitals and clinics recommend washing, gargling, or irrigating the sinuses with propolis rinses, as well as taking propolis internally. This bee product is certainly a good weapon against bacteria when used topically. It can clearly prevent infections and can also help cure infections that have already started.
Do you know that now even toothpastes contain natural ingredients related to honey? Propolis has become a healthy alternative to synthetic brands of toothpaste, as it is especially helpful in disorders of the mouth and gums. Our mouth is one of the most sensitive points of our body. This is the place where the synesthesia of the senses begins and the food we visualize develops all its smell and flavor. The mouth is the starting point for the digestion of food. A healthy oral cavity is undoubtedly one of the elements that contribute to appetite and a good mood in general. If the mouth develops sores, canker sores, or gum disease, the entire system is disrupted, resulting in pain and an agonizing sensation. Published clinical research shows that propolis fights bacteria, prevents cavities, improves oral hygiene, heals bleeding gums, and prevents receding gums. Manufacturers of propolis toothpastes and mouth sprays claim that their products leave teeth clean, gums feel healthy, taste great without artificial ingredients, and have no negative side effects. A honey shop salesman he used to frequently explain that propolis toothpaste is very suitable for use by young children, as even if accidentally swallowed, it is extremely safe. Such products are easily applied and have increasingly become a part of daily dental hygiene for people who are especially interested in natural remedies. My latest discovery while shopping for honey products: propolis extract now even comes in the form of sprays and candies. The spray claims to be effective against flu, cuts, burns, mouth and gum infections, sore throats and intestinal complaints, while the candy is sold as a good therapeutic substitute for traditional throat lozenges and an aid to cure flu, colds, sore throats, coughs and bad breath.
Cautionary note: Propolis is generally non-toxic, although allergic reactions such as rashes, swelling, redness, eczema, or fever have been reported. As the effects of propolis during pregnancy and lactation have not been sufficiently evaluated, women should not use it during these periods unless directed by a doctor.
Fountain: www.beneficios-de-la-miel.com/propolis.html
