Health Benefits of Propolis

Propolis is a bee product created from the resin of trees. It has antimicrobial properties and it’s very sticky, so bees use it to mend their hive. What’s even more important is that propolis can also prevent bacteria and viruses from penetrating the hive. So, if it’s good enough for bees, it’s good for us also. Propolis is beneficial for our overall wellness, protecting our immune system and strengthening it. Here is how it can help you.

Kills Bacteria

Propolis has anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties and it can effectively kill bacteria and germs. It can be used against the bacteria found in the mouth and it can also treat flu and colds. For example, if you have a sore throat, you can take a teaspoon or two of propolis and the pain and sensitivity will immediately disappear.

Treats Allergies

This is one of the natural products that can ease the symptoms coming with the seasonal allergies. It has the ability to inhibit the histamine release, the substance responsible for your runny nose, watery eyes and sneezing. Thus, propolis can efficiently fight against allergic rhinitis and if you combine it with bee pollen, the results will be even more amazing.

Treats Food Poisoning

Various studies have shown that propolis is also extremely effective in treating food poisoning. It does so thanks to its anti-microbial properties that kill the germs found in the stomach responsible for food poisoning. Propolis can successfully inhibit the growth of Staphylococcus aureus, Enterobacter faecalis and C. jejuni. When used together with the antibiotics, this bee product can do wonders. You can even prevent food poisoning by taking a dose of propolis tincture after eating in a restaurant that’s unfamiliar to you.

Boosts the Blood

Propolis also has antioxidant properties, removing the free radicals that flow in your blood stream. Moreover, it can repair the corrupted molecules and help you have a normal blood flow. Propolis is also responsible for lowering the blood pressure. So, if you have hypertension, you can try a natural treatment with honey and propolis and the results will be seen immediately.

Fights against Cavities

A 2003 study has demonstrated that propolis can help you with your oral health. Various compounds found in this bee product can inhibit and kill mutans streptococci, the oral bacteria that lead to cavities. Propolis can also help you with teeth and gum injuries.

Prevents Cancer

Thanks to its antibiotic, antioxidant and antiseptic properties, it has been found to inhibit and kill the prostate cancer and colon cancer cells. As a result, propolis can be used to prevent cancer and can be effectively utilized alongside chemotherapy because it also strengthens your immune system. Still, as opposed to chemotherapy, propolis can only kill the cancer cells, leaving the healthy cells alive. This might be the main advantage of propolis over chemotherapy. This bee product has also been shown to prolong life, so the research on this is quite promising. However, more studies must be conducted to establish the exact role of this product in the anti-cancer treatment.