The word propolis is attributed to Aristotle, and originating from Greek, it means defense of the city. The term refers to the way honeybees use propolis to close off their hives and keep out intruders. Propolis is bee glue. Bees are highly susceptible to bacterial and viral infection, but by creating their own natural defense, propolis keeps their hives strong. Propolis uses in your daily life range from antiviral to chewing gum.

What is propolis?

Propolis is a sticky resin, green-brown looking with a bitter taste. It comes from buds of trees and also drips from the bark of conifer trees. The bees gather the propolis and blend it with wax flakes they have secreted from their stomachs. Propolis is composed of resins, balsams, pollen, minerals, essential oils and enzymes, depending on the type and climate of the beehive. Propolis has many names: bee propolis, beeswax acid, propolis wax and propolis cera.

Uses

The bees use propolis to line the place where the queen will lay her eggs. Its antiseptic properties provide a clean environment for the bee brood. For people, it works as a preventive, helping to support the immune system. Taking propolis helps lessen colds, viruses and sore throats. Propolis is also a natural antibiotic. Propolis is used effectively against bacteria resistant to chemical antibiotics, and propolis is used to fight viruses, unlike chemical antibiotics. Propolis uses vary from urinary tract infections, gout, open wounds, Parkinson's disease, eczema eruptions, bronchitis, arthritis, lung disease, pneumonia, hoarseness to circulation problems. Propolis is useful for protecting against microorganisms. Propolis is effective for minor burns, causing less inflammation and quicker healing properties. According to the National Institute of Health, propolis in dentistry works as a natural enamel hardener and sealant. Propolis fights herpes simplex and parasitic infections. You will find propolis in the ingredients of cosmetics to chewing gum, food and beverages and toothpaste.

Ways to take propolis

Spraying as a mouthwash and healing sore throats, propolis is soothing. For herpes use as a 3 percent ointment on the blisters. Propolis comes in creams, sprays, natural chunks, drops, capsules and liquid tinctures. Propolis properties are antiseptic uses, antibiotic, antiviral and antifungal. Propolis is nature's preventive.

Caution

According to the National Institutes of Health, propolis can be a strong allergen. If you are naturally allergic, be cautious in using propolis. No reports of toxicity have been reported, but skin irritation and blood vessel inflammation have been numerously reported. According to Dr. Andrew Weil, using propolis frequently can lead to swelling, redness, burning, fever and eczema. The RX list website suggests people with asthma, who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or allergic to bee stings should not take propolis.

Source:

Draper Bee

National Institutes of Health

Dr Weil