The Power of Propolis
Bees, renowned for their production of honey, offer a plethora of precious gifts, including bee pollen, royal jelly, and beeswax. Among these invaluable products, propolis stands out, boasting a unique blend of approximately 300 different substances.
Crafting Propolis: Nature's Defence Mechanism
Propolis, also referred to as "putty wax" or "bee putty," is a wax-like substance meticulously crafted by bees to fortify their hives and safeguard against potential threats from viruses, bacteria, and fungi.
Geographic Variability in Propolis Composition
The intricate process of propolis creation involves the collection of resin and seeds from coniferous trees, coupled with the acquisition of pollen and resins from the buds of deciduous trees. Bees transform this collection of raw materials into small pieces by combining them with their saliva. Notably, the composition of propolis may exhibit slight variations contingent on factors such as geographical location, seasonal conditions, and the accessibility of specific trees and flowers. The principal sources of propolis include birch, elm, poplar, willow, alder, beech, conifers, and horse chestnut trees.
Propolis' Nutrient Richness: A Blend of 300 Compounds
As mentioned, the nutritional composition of propolis may exhibit some variability, depending on its geographic origin. Nevertheless, extensive studies on propolis have consistently unveiled a unique blend of approximately 300 nutrients. A significant proportion of these compounds assumes the form of antioxidants, specifically belonging to the subgroup of flavonoids. These phytochemicals are plants' natural defence mechanisms against threats, providing a cogent explanation for the remarkable protective properties of propolis against viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Propolis also features other noteworthy components, including terpenes and phenolic acids.
Healing Wonders of Propolis: Antimicrobial and Anti-Inflammatory
The antimicrobial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory attributes of propolis have been the focal point of numerous research endeavours. Notably, investigations have spotlighted propolis for its potential in wound healing and regenerative capabilities, particularly in tissue regeneration.
Propolis in History: From Ancient Civilisations to Modern Day
The application of propolis in human history dates back centuries. Historical records indicate that ancient civilisations, such as the Egyptians, Persians, Greeks, and Romans, employed propolis to address a myriad of health-related concerns.
In antiquity, Greeks utilised propolis as a central ingredient in polyanthus, fragrant perfumes blending propolis with olibanum, styrax, and aromatic herbs. Both the Assyrians and Greeks harnessed its potential to combat infections, promote the healing process, and manage boils and wounds. In the realm of ancient Egypt, propolis played a role in the embalming of mummies. Hippocrates, the venerable figure regarded as the father of modern medicine, documented the therapeutic properties of propolis in his writings.
Modern Applications and Products Featuring Propolis
Presently, propolis is readily available in the form of dietary supplements, encompassing capsules, tablets, and liquid drops. It is also a prised ingredient in throat lozenges, toothpaste formulations, and mouthwashes. Furthermore, propolis finds application in skin and hair care products. Notably, combining propolis with aloe vera has gained popularity for its capacity to infuse the skin with moisture and nourishment, facilitating the recuperation of skin subjected to irritations and injuries.