If you are interested in the benefits of honey, royal jelly, pollen and beeswax for your well-being, you might want to learn more about another treasure from the beehive: propolis. Propolis is a natural substance that bees collect from the buds of certain trees and use to protect their colony from microbes and predators. It has amazing properties for human health and can be used both internally and externally. In this blog post, I will introduce you to propolis, its composition, its benefits, and how to use it.
What is propolis and how do bees make it?
Propolis comes from the Greek word “pro-polis”, which means “for the city”. It is a combination of resinous, gummy and balsamic substances that bees extract from the buds of certain trees, such as poplars, birches, willows and conifers. Bees mix the resin with their saliva, wax and some pollen to create propolis. They use it to seal cracks and holes in the hive, to coat the walls and combs, to disinfect the cells before laying eggs, and to embalm intruders that are too large to remove. Propolis acts as a natural barrier and a defense system for the beehive.
What are the main components and colors of propolis?
Propolis is a complex substance that contains hundreds of different compounds, depending on the plant sources and the season. The main components of propolis are:
lResins (50-55%): These are the main source of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which are responsible for most of the biological activities of propolis.
lWax (30-40%): This is the material that gives propolis its plasticity and consistency.
lEssential oils (5-10%): These are volatile compounds that give propolis its characteristic aroma and flavor.
lPollen (5%): This is the source of proteins, amino acids, vitamins and minerals.
lOther substances (5%): These include organic acids, sugars, alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, steroids, terpenes and trace elements.
Propolis can have different colors depending on the plant sources and the region where it is collected. The most common colors are brown, red and green. Brown propolis is usually derived from poplar buds and has a wide range of plant diversity. Red propolis is mainly found in tropical regions and comes from plants such as Clusia and Dalbergia. Green propolis is typical of Brazil and originates from Baccharis dracunculifolia.
What are the benefits of propolis for human health?
Propolis has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various ailments. Modern research has confirmed its remarkable properties and potential applications. Some of the benefits of propolis are:
lIt supports the immune system and increases the resistance against diseases and viruses.
lIt has antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal effects against various pathogens.
lIt has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that protect the cells from oxidative stress and damage.
lIt has wound-healing and tissue-regenerating effects that promote skin health and recovery.
lIt has analgesic and anesthetic effects that relieve pain and discomfort.
lIt has anticancer effects that inhibit tumor growth and metastasis.
lIt improves oral health by preventing dental plaque, caries, gingivitis and periodontitis.
lIt improves gastrointestinal health by protecting the mucosa from ulcers, gastritis and colitis.
lIt improves respiratory health by alleviating cough, asthma, bronchitis and sinusitis.
lIt improves metabolic health by regulating blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
How to use propolis products?
Propolis products are available in various forms, such as liquid extracts, powders, capsules, tablets, lozenges, sprays, creams, ointments, balms and cosmetics. Depending on your needs and preferences, you can choose the most suitable product for you. Here are some general guidelines on how to use propolis products:
lFor internal use: You can take propolis products orally with water or juice. The recommended dosage varies depending on the product concentration and your body weight. A common dosage is 20-40 drops or 1-2 capsules of propolis extract per day. You can also dissolve propolis lozenges or tablets in your mouth to soothe your throat or improve your oral hygiene.
lFor external use: You can apply propolis products topically on your skin or mucous membranes. You can use propolis creams or ointments for minor wounds, burns, insect bites, eczema or acne. You can use propolis sprays for sore throat or nasal congestion. You can also add propolis liquid or powder to your shampoo, conditioner, lotion, soap or other cosmetic products to enhance their effects.
lFor precautions: You should always do a skin test before using propolis products to check for any allergic reactions. You should also consult your doctor before using propolis products if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking any medications, or have any medical conditions. Propolis may interact with some drugs, especially anticoagulants, and may increase the risk of bleeding. Propolis may also cause some side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, or skin irritation.
How does Delee Honey produce its propolis products?
Delee Honey is a professional honey producer and supplier that also offers high-quality propolis products. Delee Honey collects propolis from different regions and plants, and processes it with advanced technology and strict quality control. Delee Honey’s propolis products include:
lWater Soluble 70% Propolis Extract: This is a liquid form of propolis that can be easily dissolved in water or other beverages. It contains 70% of pure propolis and has a high concentration of flavonoids and phenolic acids. It can be used for immune support, anti-inflammation, wound healing, oral health, and more.
lBritish Bee Propolis Liquid (30% Propolis): This is another liquid form of propolis that has a lower concentration but a longer shelf life. It contains 30% of pure propolis and has a mild taste and aroma. It can be used for the same purposes as the water soluble extract.
lPropolis Powder: This is a dry form of propolis that can be mixed with food or capsules. It contains 70% of pure propolis and has a fine texture and a dark color. It can be used for the same purposes as the liquid extracts, as well as for cosmetic applications.
lPropolis Capsules: These are convenient and easy-to-take capsules that contain propolis powder. Each capsule contains 500 mg of propolis powder, equivalent to 350 mg of pure propolis. They can be used for the same purposes as the powder, as well as for travel or storage.
Delee Honey’s propolis products are certified by HALAL, KOSHER, QS, ORGANIC, ISO and HACCP. They are also tested for purity, potency, safety, and efficacy. Delee Honey guarantees that its propolis products are 100% natural, original, and free of additives or contaminants.
If you are looking for a reliable and reputable source of propolis products, you should consider Delee Honey as your partner. Delee Honey has been producing and exporting honey and bee products for over 20 years, and has a professional team that provides one-stop service, technical support, and customized solutions. Delee Honey also has a wide range of other honey products, such as acacia honey, black forest honey, buckwheat honey, comb honey, eucalyptus honey, jujube/date honey, linden honey, longan honey, polyflower honey, rapeseed honey, sidr/seder honey, sunflower honey, chaste tree honey, and white honey.
To learn more about Delee Honey and its products, you can visit their website at Delee Honey or contact them at info@deleehoney.com. You can also follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn to get the latest news and updates. Delee Honey is looking forward to hearing from you and serving you with its best products and services.
