What is Propolis? What are its benefits?

Interest in natural products, particularly for immune system protection, is growing daily. Chief among these is propolis. Produced by bees, propolis helps treat almost every ailment.

What is Propolis?

Bees produce propolis to protect their hives from all kinds of external pests (such as fungi, bacteria, and insects). In addition to providing protection, propolis is also used to strengthen and repair honeycombs. Bees produce propolis by mixing their secretions with various plants. Propolis, which also promotes hygiene in the hive, is commonly brown in color. This color varies depending on the plant species and can be yellow, green, red, or even transparent.

What is the Content of Propolis?

Due to its rich content, propolis has been used as a medicine since ancient times.

Some of the substances contained in propolis are as follows;

• Over 300 compounds (about 150 bioactive)
• Vitamins C, E, B1 and B2
• Quite a lot of minerals such as iron, copper, zinc, magnesium, calcium, potassium and sodium
• Beeswax, resin, and pollen

In its natural state, propolis consists of nearly half beeswax. This makes it difficult for the human body to digest. Therefore, the beeswax is separated and consumed.

What are the benefits of propolis?

Propolis, which protects the human body from germs and bacteria, has many benefits for the body.

Some of these are listed as follows;

• It helps the wounds in the body heal more quickly by allowing cells to regenerate faster.
• It prevents the formation of cancer cells in the body (especially with its rich vitamin C content)
• Thanks to its antioxidant properties, it helps the skin to be healthier and helps to regenerate the skin.
• It makes a significant contribution to the treatment of cold sores and wounds, especially in the mouth area.
• Helps treat gum diseases
• It is widely used in the treatment of stomach disorders such as gastritis and ulcers.

The most important benefit of propolis for the body is its effect on the immune system. By strengthening the immune system, propolis helps protect the body against many diseases and viruses.

How to Use Propolis?

After propolis is separated from beeswax, it is commonly consumed in liquid form. The recommended amount of propolis to be consumed by dropping it into water is one-tenth of a kilogram. In addition to its liquid form, propolis is also used in lozenges, tablets, shampoo, toothpaste, and mouthwash.