10 Proven Benefits of Propolis for Health and Wellness

If you think honey is the only thing that bees produce, you've got it wrong. Have you ever heard of 'Propolis' or bee glue? This sticky greenish-brown product created by bees has gained a lot of appreciation for its impressive medicinal properties. And now, it's being validated in the health and wellness space. Whether it's boosting your immunity or promoting your skin health, Propolis is a powerful natural healer. 

In this blog guide, we'll explore what Propolis is, its historical significance, and the proven benefits it offers for your health and wellness. Let's begin. 

What is Propolis?

Propolis, or the "bee glue," is a sticky, resin-like substance that bees collect from tree buds, sap flows, and other botanical sources. Bees then mix this resin with their enzymes and beeswax to create a protective seal for their hive. It seals the holes, blocks the cracks and smoothens out the internal walls of the hives. As a result, this 100% natural sealant helps keep their colony free from the following: 

• Bacteria
• Viruses
• Other pathogens

Moreover, the thin lining of Propolis limits the escape of water and maintains constant humidity inside the hives.

History of Propolis

The use of propolis dates back to the times of ancient Greeks, Romans, Persians and Egyptians. Its knowledge has survived in traditional folk medicine. If research is to be believed, about 180 different compounds have been identified in Propolis. It has the following properties: 

• Antibacterial
• Antiseptic
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antifungal
• Anaesthetic
• Healing 

The ancient Egyptians used it for embalming mummies by mixing Propolis with honey and other resins, while the Greeks and Romans applied it to wounds to promote healing. Furthermore, Greeks also used Propolis as a primary ingredient for polyanthus, a kind of perfume.

10 Proven Benefits of Propolis 

1. Boosts Immune System

Propolis contains powerful antioxidants and antimicrobial compounds that help strengthen the immune system. Its immunity-boosting powers result from its bioactive phytochemical components. Propolis is said to have the following three important components:

• Flavonoids that are well-known for reducing inflammation
• Polyphenols which act as antioxidants and protect the body. They neutralize the free radicals that damage the cells 
• Amino acids. Propolis contains 28 different types of amino acids, which help break down food and strengthen immunity. 

2. Supports Oral Health

Due to its antibacterial properties, Propolis is commonly used in oral care products like toothpaste and mouthwash. It helps to prevent dental cavities. Specifically, it inhibits the activity and cell division of the bacteria that cause cavities. 

Furthermore, it helps control gingivitis since it is anti-inflammatory. It is also believed that bee glue helps to prevent the formation of calcium phosphate, which makes up for most dental plaque, as well as reduces bad breath.

3. Fights Bacterial Infections

Propolis has natural antibiotic properties that combat harmful bacteria. It also has antimicrobial properties. Propolis is said to act against the following types of bacteria:

• Gram-negative
• Gram-positive
• Aerobic
• Anaerobic 

However, its activity depends upon its chemical composition, which varies across countries. 

4. Aids Wound Healing

Applying Propolis to cuts, burns, and wounds can speed up healing. How? One of the main challenges in wound healing is the generation of biofilm. Propolis reduces biofilm generation and results in accelerated healing. Furthermore, it promotes tissue regeneration, reduces inflammation, and prevents infections. 

5. Relieves Cold and Sore Throat

Propolis is widely used to treat colds, flu, and sore throats. Its antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help soothe throat irritation. How? 

One, it fights against the harmful bacteria that are causing the trouble. Two, it reduces the inflammation in the tissues of your throat that cause pain and discomfort. Thus allowing you to speak and swallow more comfortably. Third, it is also said to numb the area to reduce pain and boost collagen production for faster tissue repair.

6. Supports Gut Health

Propolis also helps you maintain a healthy digestive system. For starters, it promotes healthy gut bacteria. Then, it strengthens the mucosal barrier in the stomach to prevent and heal a leaky gut. Finally, it may also help with conditions like gastritis, Ulcerative colitis (UC), and ulcers. 

7. Improves Skin Health

Rich in antioxidants and healing compounds, Propolis is often found in skincare products. And for all the right reasons. It reduces inflammation and redness in the skin. Thus, it is helpful in treating skin conditions like acne and eczema. 

Furthermore, since it is antibacterial in nature, it fights off acne-causing bacteria and prevents infection in minor cuts and wounds on your skin. If you have damaged skin, scars, or sunburns, the application of Propolis will promote the regeneration of skin cells and accelerate the healing process.

8. May Help Manage Diabetes

Yes, you read it right. Propolis is rich in a variety of minerals, including magnesium, calcium, potassium, sodium, copper, zinc, manganese, and iron. It is also rich in a variety of vitamins like vitamins B6, C, E, D, and provitamin A. One of its main components, caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), is significantly involved in the improvement of insulin resistance. 

Animal and cellular model studies have shown that propolis modules oxidative stress and adipose tissue inflammation. These two things, amongst others, are known to contribute to insulin resistance or defects in the secretion of insulin. As a result, it is believed that propolis treatment may reduce a variety of diabetic complications. For instance, retinopathy and foot ulcers. 

9. Supports Heart Health

Propolis contains a variety of components which are said to have a positive impact on your heart health. Specifically, the polyphenols and flavonoids present in propolis help to lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and protect against oxidative stress. Furthermore, it is believed to control diet-induced obesity, which is another risk factor for cardiac diseases.

10. May Have Anti-Cancer Properties

Research suggests that Propolis is helpful in treating gastrointestinal cancers due to the presence of caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) and artepillin C – two components which have anticancerous effects.

Besides this, it may also help with other types of cancers by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells or inducing cell death in them. Some of the cancers it may help include oral cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer and skin cancer. These findings have only come from in vivo tests on animal models and isolated cells. Thus, more research needs to be done in this area to confirm the effect of Propolis on cancerous cells.

Conclusion

Propolis is a natural powerhouse with a wide range of health benefits. From boosting your immune system and supporting oral health to relieving you of colds, helping you maintain a healthy gut, and supporting your heart health, it offers a safe and effective way to enhance overall well-being. 

So, if you are looking to add an ingredient to your routine, consider adding Propolis. However, before you do so, consult your doctors about the dosages and how to integrate them best. 

We at Geohoney offer 100% raw bee propolis in a variety of product formulations. These include propolis powder, propolis liquid, and Propolis raw. It is sourced from trusted beekeepers to ensure it is of the highest quality and adds to your overall well-being.