Propolis – Everything You Should Know
Honeybees gather materials from plant parts, buds, flowers, and tree bark to create propolis, a natural resinous combination.
The name “propolis,” which signifies this natural substance is utilized in hive defense, is derived from the Greek words “pro” and “polis,” which mean “at the entrance to” and “community” or “city,” respectively.
Propolis is also known as bee glue. Bees employ propolis in the building and maintenance of their hives because of their waxy nature and mechanical qualities.
It is used to seal holes and cracks, smooth out the interior walls, and act as a barrier against outside intruders like snakes, lizards, and the like, as well as against wind and rain. Bees collect propolis from many plants in various zones of temperate climates.
What is Propolis?
Propolis is a resinous substance that is collected by bees from the buds and bark of trees. Bees use propolis to seal cracks and gaps in their hives, as well as to sterilize the hive and protect it from bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens.
Propolis is made up of a complex mixture of resin, wax, essential oils, pollen, and other organic compounds, and its exact composition can vary depending on the location and plant sources of the bees.
Propolis is a natural wonder that has been used for centuries to promote health and wellness. It’s naturally antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties make it an effective treatment for a wide range of health conditions.
Whether you are looking to boost your immune system, improve your oral health, or promote the healing of wounds, propolis is a safe and effective option to consider.
New Zealand Propolis
Not all propolis is equal – the quality and potency depend on the country and plants that it’s collected. New Zealand is the best place to obtain the highest and purest quality with its pristine nature and vast biodiversity.
The healing properties of propolis come from its bioactive ingredients and mainly flavonoids. Raw propolis contains a lot of wax and impurities and may have very low levels of bioactive ingredients.
Propolis products are concentrated extracts of raw propolis and have a significantly more powerful effect than raw propolis.
Benefits of Propolis
Propolis is packed with a wide range of health-promoting compounds, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, terpenes, and other antioxidants. Some of the key benefits of propolis include:
Boosts Immune System Function: Propolis has been shown to stimulate the production of white blood cells, which are crucial for fighting infections and diseases.
Promotes Oral Health: Propolis can help prevent cavities, gingivitis, and other oral health issues by reducing the growth of bacteria in the mouth.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Propolis has been shown to reduce inflammation throughout the body, which can help ease pain and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
Promotes Wound Healing: Propolis can help speed up the healing process of wounds and reduce the risk of infections.
Uses of Propolis
Propolis can be used in a wide range of forms, including capsules, tinctures, creams, and lozenges. Some of the most common uses of propolis include:
Boosting Immune Function: Taking propolis supplements can help support a healthy immune system and reduce the risk of infections.
Oral Health: Propolis can be used as a natural mouthwash or added to toothpaste to promote oral health.
Skin Health: Propolis can be applied topically to the skin to promote healing and reduce the risk of infections.
Cold and Flu Prevention: Taking propolis supplements or using a propolis spray can help reduce the frequency and severity of colds and flu.
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