Propolis

The word propolis is derived from Greek, in which pro stands for “at the entrance to” and polis for “community” or “city,” which means this natural product is used in hive defense.

It is an alternative food used for both preventive and healthy nutrition among the people since 300 BC.

Propolis, a natural resinous product known for centuries, is a complex product obtained by honey bees by mixing saliva and beeswax with exudate gathered from tree buds, sap flows, or other botanical sources.

Bees use propolis at the entrance of their hive for ventilation, closing it down for winter and use it as a anti-bacterial and anti-microbial substance.

Approximately 300 different compounds have been found in the content of propolis, nearly 150 bioactive components. Unlike bee pollen, propolis, which contains vitamin B1, B2, C, E, also contains minerals such as zinc, copper, iron, calcium, magnesium, sodium and potassium. Propolis’ colour is usually dark brown, but it also can occur in yellow, green, red, violet. Properties and chemical composition of propolis differ depending on the season and time of collection, and types of plant sources.

In addition to its antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects, studies on its preventive and therapeutic properties are ongoing.

Propolis is a natural product known to kill harmful bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites and boost immune system by optimizing your entire body.

The activity of propolis against fungi has also been described in some studies. In addition, many studies have reported antioxidant activity.

Propolis components caffeic acid phenyl ester and clerodane diterpenoid, are also thought to prevent the growth of cancer cells and reduce transformation of normal cells into cancerous cells.

It has been suggested to play a vital role for the treatment of breast, skin, larynx, liver, colon, bladder, and ovarian cancer. This ingredient has been shown to protect the liver against harmful substances. (Studies are limited)

In the same limited studies, it has been determined that other active substances in propolis are effective against viruses such as adenovirus and influenza and play important roles in phases of wound healing. Bioflavonoids provide effective protection against viruses.

Some research shows that propolis may help heal cold sores, flue.