(also referred to as...)
Russian Penicillin
Description
Bee propolis has been used by the Egyptians, Greeks, and Assyrians for medicinal purposes and was also employed during the time of Aristotle, around 350 B.C. It is derived from the resin collected by bees from tree buds and wounds and other plants and mixed with beeswax. The sticky, soft substance is used by bees in the hive to fill and caulk holes, seal, line, or spread over surfaces, and generally strengthen the hive.
The bees also use bee propolis to keep contaminants and germs at bay. With tens of thousands of bees entering and leaving the enclosed, moist warmth of the hive daily, it is vital to keep bacteria and other foreign organisms in check. Bee propolis helps keep the hive germ free and to control possible point sources of contaminants. If a mouse enters a hive for warmth during the winter, for example, the bees will sting it to death. As they cannot physically remove the now decaying body, they will mummify it with propolis to protect the hive. The Egyptians used propolis for mummification as well.
Bee propolis contains more than three hundred elements, including bioflavonoids, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, proteins, and amino acids. Composition varies by region and season.
Ailments / Situations Where Used
Bee propolis is best known for its antibiotic properties and ability to stimulate the immune system. It is believed that bee propolis stimulates phagocytosis -- a natural process where white blood cells engulf and destroy bacteria. This makes it ideal when dealing with bad breath, gingivitis, sore throat, tonsillitis, ulcers, and some forms of the common cold (most colds are viral in nature).
Prepared as a salve, bee pollen is used to treat abrasions, bruises, cuts, scrapes, wounds, and other skin problems. It is also used to treat seasonal allergies.
Source
Bee propolis is very difficult to harvest and thus commands a high price.
Beekeepers slide small inserts into the hive, which look like cracks to bees. The bees respond by "fixing" the "crack" and fill the inserts with propolis.
Propolis may also be scraped out of the hive. However, this results in an inferior, contaminated product containing unwanted bee by-products.
Optimal Absorption
Bee propolis is available in tablet, lozenge, or various liquid forms. It may also be prepared with honey. If purchasing in tincture form, look for 50 to 65% extract. Take 10 to 15 drops, twice daily. Take with food for optimal absorption.
Ensure that any bee propolis product you purchase smells and tastes fresh. Store in a tightly sealed container. It is also best to purchase bee propolis from a farm or company that specializes in bee products.
If using to treat seasonal allergies, purchase from as local a source as possible to increase effectiveness and conditioning against local pollens.
Contraindications / Precautions / Warnings
Do not take bee propolis if you have asthma, as it can magnify symptoms.
If you are allergic to bees, consult with your naturopath or other health practitioner to determine the appropriateness of this supplement for your needs.
Bee pollen may cause a rash if handled.
Ailment / Situation Listing
See also
Bee Pollen, Honey, and Royal Jelly
