Propolis is a mixture of plant resins, beeswax, pollen, essential oils, and bee secretions used by bees to build and reinforce their hives. Organic propolis is made from plant materials grown without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. It is sold as a natural cure for various ailments and is used in herbal sore throat lozenges, skin creams, burn ointments, and chewing gum. Its efficacy against major and minor ailments has not been established in clinical trials.
Propolis is a bee product that is a mixture of plant resins, beeswax, pollen, essential oils, and bee secretions. Organic propolis is made from plant materials that have been grown without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. Humans have used propolis for centuries as a remedy for skin conditions and to treat and prevent disease. While individual propolis samples may contain antibiotic or antifungal compounds, propolis content varies widely by hive, region, and season.
Bees use propolis along with beeswax to build and reinforce their hives. It is used to coat the interior of brood cells where bee larvae incubate and feed. It is also used to close entrances and fill small spaces in the comb and beehive. Propolis is strong and brittle at lower temperatures, and sticky and somewhat flexible at warmer temperatures. It can be melted in liquid at or near boiling temperature.
Compounds that can destroy bacteria harmful to bees can be found in propolis, which is why it is used to line brood cells. In addition to protecting the eggs and larvae from disease, propolis is also used to cover the carcasses of large insects or small animals that may enter the hive and die. If the bees can’t remove an object, they essentially mummify it into propolis to contain the pathogens. The ancient Egyptians also used propolis in the mummification process.
Organic propolis can be red, green, amber, or brown, depending on the source material, climate, or season. Propolis components, even in samples taken from a single hive, are extremely inconsistent and very difficult to control. It is also quite difficult to guarantee that the source plants were organically grown, or that they are not contaminated by drifting pesticides. Bees tend to range to about four miles (6.4 km) from the hive, but can travel up to seven miles (11.2 km) in search of desirable plants.
Organic propolis is sold as a natural cure for a variety of ailments, as well as a nutritional supplement. It is often an ingredient in herbal sore throat lozenges, skin creams, burn ointments, and chewing gum. It can also be an ingredient in drinks or snacks designed to give energy or improve health. Some manufacturers claim that organic propolis can treat more serious disorders, such as genital herpes and cancer. Although organic propolis often contains antiseptic compounds, its efficacy against major and minor ailments has not been established in clinical trials.
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