Discover the health benefits of propolis
Bees have much more to offer than just honey. They also produce propolis, a substance they create by mixing their saliva with beeswax and substances from trees and plants. Propolis is useful for bees, but it also has many health benefits for humans!
Bees use propolis as a lining to build and reinforce their hives, and to keep intruders out. This substance also has antimicrobial properties and protects bees from pathogens.1
The virtues of propolis
Since ancient times, humans have used propolis for its medicinal properties, to treat abscesses and wounds, etc. Today, we know that this substance has many health benefits thanks to its antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory effects.1,2
The composition of propolis can vary depending on the environment where the bees are located and the flora to which they have access. Researchers have identified more than 300 components in propolis. These are usually polyphenols. These are beneficial antioxidants that help combat many ailments. More specifically, propolis contains specific polyphenols called flavonoids. Flavonoids are often found in antioxidant-rich foods, such as fruits and vegetables, green tea, and red wine.1
Propolis and honey are both beneficial to health!
Propolis for wound care
According to scientific literature, propolis promotes better wound healing by helping the skin produce new cells to repair itself. This property is particularly interesting for patients who suffer from slow wound healing, such as diabetics. The antimicrobial action of propolis also helps prevent infections.2
Bees at the service of oral health
Propolis also appears to inhibit the formation of calcium phosphate, the main component of dental plaque (a cause of cavities and gum inflammation). Furthermore, thanks to their antibacterial effects, propolis and honey can be interesting ingredients in dental care products. It has been proven that propolis significantly reduces the amount of bacteria in the saliva of people suffering from certain oral inflammations.1
Propolis against respiratory infections
Propolis has long been used to treat classic respiratory infections. A comprehensive review recently confirmed the benefits of propolis.1,3
Multiple studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of propolis-based products in reducing and alleviating the symptoms of respiratory infections caused by bacteria and/or viruses. Taking a propolis supplement can have a protective effect against certain infections, reduce the severity of symptoms, and shorten the duration of certain illnesses.3
Antioxidants against inflammation
Finally, various studies have also demonstrated the anti-inflammatory effect of propolis. For example, it can help relieve symptoms of osteoarthritis.1
Many references in the scientific literature attribute beneficial effects to propolis. Bees therefore have much more to offer than just honey! For any questions regarding the properties of propolis, you can consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Scientific references
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