The resin like material which is obtained from the buds of cone bearing or poplar trees is called Propolis. It is comprised of bee products as it is acquired from beehives. Bees use it to stick open spaces or small gaps in the hive. The color varies from dark brown, green, red, white to black. It consists of above 300 natural compounds likely polyphenols, sequiterpene-quinones, phenolic aldehydes, coumarins, steroids, amino acids, and inorganic compounds. Being a natural remedy for a long period of time, medicinally it is used as a treatment for canker sores, infections; enhance immunity power, gastrointestinal problems and throat or nose cancer. It is also used as wound cleansing and as a cure for cold sores, genital herpes and mouth rinse for speed up healing. Other common names for Propolis are Bee glue, Acide de Cire d’Abeille, Baume de Propolis, Beeswax Acid, Bee Propolis, Cire de Propolis, Cire d’Abeille Synthétique, Colle d’Abeille, Pénicilline Russe, Hive Dross, Propóleos, Propolis Balsam, Propolis d’Abeille, Propolis Cera, Propolis Wax, Propolis Resin, Russian Penicillin, Résine de Propolis and Synthetic Beeswax.
History
It was used for medicinal use before 350 B.C. at the time of Aristotle. In Greek, it was used for abscesses. The Assyrian people use it to heal tumors and wounds. In Egypt, it is used to embalm mummies.
Health Benefits of Propolis
Propolis is a sticky and waxy substance which is made by bees and also possesses anti-microbial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties. It is packed with antioxidants such as amino acids, bioflavonoids, vitamins, minerals and enzymes. It is used to enhance immunity power, cure viral infections, treats cancer and skin conditions. It is also used as a treatment for abscesses, acne, aging, allergies, peptic ulcers and minor burns. It also possesses germicidal properties. It has been used as an aid for itching, tuberculosis, cancer and osteoporosis.
Enhance hair growth
The research shows that propolis promotes the growth of hair in mice. It could be overwhelming for various men and women suffering from this problem. It is a resin which is used bees for sealing small gaps in hives. It has effective compounds which counteract bacterial and fungal infections. The research made on shaved or waxed mice show that propolis helps them to grow their fur faster. It also shows that the special cells for the growing process were increased when applied topically. It possess anti-inflammatory properties which helps to treat the balding problems. (1)
Anti-cavity properties
Bees collect propolis from the plants and trees. It is used to stick the holes and make the hives clean. The research shows that propolis helps to lower the cavity by 60 percent and eliminate the activity of enzyme which is responsible for the dental plaque. It blocks the enzyme which is commonly found in our mouth. It effectively lowers cavity in animals. (2)
Healing activity
Propolis has medicinal, anti-fungal, anti-microbial, anaesthetic and non-allergenic properties. It promotes the immunity power of the body. The gel made with propolis for mouth ulcers possess better anti-microbial, anaesthetic and anti-fungal properties. (3)
Prevents overheating
Propolis is a folk medicine which possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiviral properties. The underlying of dehydration and fatigue is the cause for heat stress and hyperthermia. CAPE promotes the performance of athletes and prevents injuries during exercise. (4)
Slows down aging
Propolis is made from buds of poplar buds which have various disease counteracting advantages. It is a great source of antioxidants which is used in skin creams. The research shows that it has antioxidant activities along with various anti-aging effects on the cells. Due to its anti-aging properties, it is used in nutraceutical formulations and cosmetic purposes. (5)
Heal wounds
Propolis possesses natural antiseptic properties. Its use on wounds helps to prevent open cuts and sores from infection. It has antioxidant properties which speed up the healing process of wounds. It also stimulates the flow of blood and also lowers inflammation. (6)
Anti-inflammation
It is used for its anti-inflammatory properties to treat skin ailments and bug bites. It was also used to treat rashes, insect bites and skin irritation. In these present years also it is an effective treatment for eczema, acne, psoriasis and other infections. (7)
Stimulate circulation
Propolis enhances the circulatory system that promotes the oxygenation and blood flow in the body. It promotes energy, healthy metabolism and speeds up healing process. It promotes heart health by increasing the blood flow through blood vessels and arteries. It lowers the risk of atherosclerosis, strokes and heart attacks. (8)
Strengthen immunity
Propolis has antiseptic properties which has positive affect on immune system. It strengthens immune system if added propolis to the diet. Due to its antibacterial and antiviral properties, it strengthens the immune power of the body. It has unique composition which boosts antioxidant properties. (9)
Lowers allergy
The study shows that propolis lowers severity of allergic reactions. It inhibits the histamine production when encountered with allergen. It lowers the collision of allergens and enhance the normality as well as quality of life. (10)
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Traditional uses
The people use it to cure abscesses.
It is used by Assyrians on tumors and wounds to counteract infection and assist healing.
In Egypt, it is used to store mummies.
It is used for infections of bacteria, virus, fungus, protozoa and canker sores.
It is also a treatment for throat and nose cancer.
It treats gastrointestinal problems and enhances immune system.
It is used to clean wounds, cold sores, genital herpes, mouth rinse and treat minor burns.
It is used in cosmetics as well.
It is used in toothpaste and mouthwash for the prevention of caries and also treats stomatitis and gingivitis.
It is an aid for ailments such as acne, cancer, itching, osteoporosis and tuberculosis.
Precautions
The people allergic to bees, bee pollen, conifer, honey and poplar trees should better avoid it.
The prolonged use of propolis causes its own allergic reactions.
One should consult a doctor before using propolis to the diet.
It might cause skin rashes.
Pregnant or lactating women should not use it to remain on safe side.
Lozenges which contain Propolis could result in mouth ulcers and irritation.
It could worsen asthma and slows down clotting of blood.
Avoid applying topically around eyes.
Children below one year of age should not be allowed to use Propolis.
Other Facts
It is used by bees with beeswax for the construction of their hives.
It becomes pliable, sticky, gummy and soft when heated.
Bees use it to repair combs, brood combs, lower size of entrance and seal small cracks in hive.
It could become hard and brittle in the cool temperatures whereas it is sticky at warm temperatures.
Propolis facts
It was called as secret to eternal life and health by the Ancient Egyptians. Prospolis is made by bees and used to stick the materials of hive by combining other secretions and beeswax with resins collected from the buds of poplar and conifer trees. The resins provide germicidal activities. Nowadays, Propolis is used in cosmetics, chewing gum, lozenges, creams and ointments. It prohibits infections caused by yeasts, bacteria and viruses. It also reduces oral ulcers, tooth decay and assist injured teeth. Propolis has antimicrobial properties which prevents the hive from bacteria as well as viruses.
Name
Propolis facts and health benefits
Native
It was used for medicinal use before 350 B.C. at the time of Aristotle.
