Recruit the protective, healing power of bee propolis to help defend your family from illness. Read on to find out how bee propolis builds immunity to germs and infection.
It’s back-to-school season. And cold and flu germs are gathering forces to descend on the kids this fall. And, don’t you know it, every year those germs have a way of winding up in your house and getting the whole family sick.
If COVID-19 taught us anything, it’s that if we absolutely need to disinfect every surface and door handle in our lives, weee can. But wouldn’t it be great if there was a more natural way to boost your immune system against more commonplace contagions and skip the back-to-school sniffles?
Doo doo doo doo! Enter, once again, the power of nature’s busy gardeners. This time we’re talking about bee propolis and its fabulous immune-system-fortifying effects.
What is bee propolis?
You may have never heard of propolis. It sounds like a fancy urban center your city built to drive tourism. Well, the city part’s not far off.
For bees, propolis is a building material. They use it primarily as a sealant for their hives. Propolis helps keeps the heat in and the cold, moisture, and GERMS out! They simply apply propolis between the honeycombs, filling in small gaps, cracks, and holes and voila.
It’s not unlike the stuff that seals the tub to the wall in your shower—propolis is essentially honey bee grout. (Boy you put the word “honey bee” in front of anything and it makes it so cute, doesn't it?)
Where do honey bees get propolis?
Bee propolis is a natural, gummy substance that bees collect from plant sources, like little green tree buds, pine sap flows, and other botanical bits and bobs.
They mix the collected propolis with beeswax and enzymes to create a sticky, adhesive substance that acts as a structural reinforcement for the hive.
Bees use propolis to protect their hives, but it can protect much more than that.
How does propolis benefit you?
First? Propolis can help fortify your immune system against invaders like infection and illness.
Propolis is Antimicrobial
Propolis is a complex little drop of glue. It includes flavonoids (plant compounds with antioxidants) and phenolic acids (natural bio-defenders), which give it its antimicrobial properties.
These compounds help stop bacteria, viruses, and fungi from growing—again, think shower grout, but more natural. ;) By reducing the activity of harmful microorganisms, propolis supports the immune system by stopping infections in their tracks and reducing the burden on the body's defenses.
What it does for a bee-hive structurally, it does for your body biologically. Pretty neat!
Propolis has Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Chronic inflammation—so, irritating and painful conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease—can break down the immune system over time. No good.
Propolis can suppress the production of pro-inflammatory molecules. Like an aspirin but not as intense.
By reducing swelling and inflammation, propolis helps calm down the immune system when its having an *ahem* overreaction. By doing so, it creates a more balanced immune response and supports your overall immune functioning.
Propolis Stimulates Immune Cells
Some research suggests that propolis can modulate the activity of immune cells, such as macrophages, lymphocytes, and neutrophils. These cells play crucial roles in identifying and neutralizing foreign invaders and abnormal cells within the body. By enhancing the function of these immune cells, propolis may contribute to a more robust immune response.
Propolis Enhances Antioxidant Defenses
Oxidative stress, caused by an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, can contribute to immune system dysfunction. Propolis contains antioxidants that can help neutralize harmful free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, thereby promoting a healthier immune system.
Support Wound Healing with Propolis
Proper wound healing is an essential part of immune response. Propolis has been studied for its potential to accelerate wound healing by promoting tissue regeneration and reducing the risk of infection at the site of injury.
Propolis’s Adjuvant Effect… (Yeah, What’s Adjuvant??)
Some studies suggest that propolis may have an adjuvant effect, meaning it can enhance the immune response to certain antigens (substances that trigger an immune response). This property could be useful in vaccines or immunotherapy.
How else does propolis benefit people?
Heals Wounds
Some research suggests that propolis may aid in wound healing and tissue regeneration due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Supports Oral Health
Propolis is often found in oral care products like toothpaste and mouthwash due to its potential to inhibit the growth of bacteria that can lead to dental problems.
Improves Skin Health
Topical applications of propolis may help with various skin issues, such as acne, eczema, and minor burns, due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.
Why can you trust apitherapy? (bee products for health)
Bees are nature's expert chemists, crafting their products with precision over millions of years. Propolis, honey, royal jelly, and bee pollen are not only natural but also rich in essential nutrients, antioxidants, and bioactive compounds.
These potent ingredients have been revered in traditional medicine across cultures and are now backed by modern scientific research. The meticulous care beekeepers put into harvesting these products ensures their purity and quality.
Moreover, apitherapy's holistic approach resonates with many, focusing on the harmonious collaboration between humans and nature.
Things to consider about bee propolis and kids
When it comes to considering the use of bee propolis for kids, a thoughtful approach is key. While bee propolis offers potential health benefits, there are a few important factors to keep in mind. First and foremost, always prioritize safety.
Check for any allergies to bee products before introducing propolis to your child's routine. Consulting a healthcare professional is highly recommended to ensure it's suitable for your child's age, health status, and any existing conditions.
When choosing a product, opt for reputable sources to guarantee quality and purity. Dosage is crucial; children typically require smaller amounts than adults, so follow age-appropriate guidelines.
Remember that bee propolis is just one piece of the health puzzle. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper hygiene play equally significant roles in your child's well-being.
Ultimately, with careful consideration and guidance, bee propolis can be a valuable addition to support your child's health journey in a natural and wholesome way.
Where can you find propolis?
One of the most accessible places to find propolis is at health food stores or specialized supplement shops. You can explore their shelves for propolis supplements in the form of capsules, tablets, or tinctures.
For those who enjoy the raw and unprocessed experience, local beekeepers or farmers' markets might have propolis for sale, often in its raw or resinous state.
Many online retailers also offer a wide range of propolis products, allowing you to conveniently browse and choose the form that best fits your needs – whether it's raw propolis, capsules, extracts, or even propolis-infused skincare products.
Just remember, no matter where you choose to buy propolis, always opt for reputable sources to ensure you're getting a high-quality product that retains the wonderful health-supporting properties bees have crafted over millions of years.