propolis

Propolis

Bees have used propolis for millions of years, and humans have used it for thousands. Propolis is a vegetable mastic made by honeybees from resins collected from the bark and sticky buds of a variety of trees and balsamic plants. Gathered by the oldest bees, the resins are brought back to the hive and mixed with some wax and salivary secretions before using to sterilize the hive against infection. Also called “bee glue”, propolis is used by the bees to varnish the hive interior, seal cracks and cement things together. Propolis reinforces the hive and protects the hive. After the summer honey harvest, a specialized screen is placed on the hive. The bees do not like draughts and quickly fill the holes with propolis. The screens are then removed to harvest the propolis.
Containing approximately 55% resinous compounds and balms, 30% beeswax, 10% aromatic essential oils, and 5% bee pollen, propolis is the substance responsible for neutralizing any bacteria, fungi or virus that enters the hive. It is one of the most powerful antibiotics found in nature. It is rich in amino acids and trace elements, has a high vitamin content, including at least 38 valuable bioflavanoids. Because of the high levels of bioflavanoids in propolis, the product has a high antioxidant value. A large number of studies have shown propolis to be highly antimicrobial. It is found to have an inhibitory affect on at least 21 species of bacteria, 9 species of fungi, 3 species of protozoa (including Giardia), and a wide range of viruses.
It is believed that Hippocrates, the father of medicine, prescribed the use of propolis to help heal sores and ulcers, internally and externally. Unlike penicillin and other drugs, propolis is always effective. Bacteria cannot build a tolerance to it. The writings of Aristotle and Pline describe the healing properties of propolis for suppurating wounds, abscesses, and boils. During the Boer War (1899-1902), it was used along with honey to treat the soldiers wounds. Propolis is known to have a stimulating effect on tissue growth, anti-inflammatory properties and a positive influence on the immune system.
Available as a tincture, propolis is used for disinfecting and protecting cuts and abrasions. In capsule form, propolis can be taken as a daily supplement aiding against bacterial infections. Found in chewing gum form, propolis is used for its healing effects for sore throats and swollen gums. Often called “nature’s penicillin”, bee propolis has effective antibacterial, antiviral, antiseptic, antifungal, and antibiotic properties.
REFERENCES:
Elkins, Rita, “Healing From The Hive-Bee Pollen, Royal Jelly, Propolis, and Honey”, (available from JBC)
Yagudin, Alexei and LaRocco, Mike, “Propolis-Research Review”, Vespa 2001