What is Propolis and For What Purposes Is It Used?

Bees have many important contributions to human life. This is not just honey production. Bees also produce a compound called 'propolis' from the sap they can obtain from coniferous trees or some evergreen trees. When they combine the liquid with their excreta and waxes, they form a sticky, greenish-brown product that is used as a coating to set up their hives. This is called propolis. Thousands of years ago, ancient civilizations were looking for healing with the benefits of propolis, whose medicinal properties they discovered. The Romans were using propolis for acne treatment. It is known that the Assyrians applied this medicine against wounds and tumors to fight infection and speed up the healing process. The Egyptians used propolis to make mummies. Today, it continues to be used in the treatment of many different ailments.

Production of propolis can vary depending on the bees' location and which trees and flowers they have access to. For example, propolis production in Europe would not be in the same chemical structure as propolis in Brazil.

Ingredients of Propolis

Researchers have shared a lot of information about the benefits of propolis. The majority of the compounds that make up the content of propolis are forms of polyphenols. Polyphenols have a feature that strengthens the body's immune system. In addition, propolis contains a food substance called 'flavonoid' with antioxidant properties. Flavonoids are produced to protect plants against external threats. Flavonoids are mostly found in some plant extracts with antioxidant effect.

We can list them as follows:

• Fruits
• Green tea
• Vegetables
• Red wine

Propolis Benefits

• Treatment of nose and throat cancer
• To strengthen the immune system
• In the treatment of ulcer, reflux, gastritis
• To clean wounds
• Being antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
• It is a natural antibiotic.
• Revitalizes good bacteria.
• It is very effective in joint pain.
• Increases resistance to cancer, recommended in chemotherapy.
• It is effective in major depression and personality disorder.
• It has analgesic and antipyretic properties.
• It is anti-bacterial. It is effective against fungi, eczema, psoriasis and viruses.
• Supports the spinal cord.
• Effective in pharyngitis, chronic bronchitis.
• It balances cholesterol and regulates blood pressure.
• It is effective for cardiovascular health.