Propolis is the putty resin of bees, an essential insulator and repair agent in the bee colony, which they produce from liquid resins collected in conjunction with their saliva. It is responsible for the sterility of the hive environment as it protects the home from harmful bacteria, viruses and fungi and keeps it virtually sterile. For this reason, bees have survived to this day. Propolis has been used for healing treatments since ancient times. Due to the above properties, propolis is versatile.
Propolis, also called putty resin, bee resin or bee putty has an antiviral, antibiotic and antifungal effect on bees. The putty resin consists of many different substances, the composition of which can vary greatly. Propolis is formed when bees collect brownish-red substances in their panties from the shoots of willows, poplars, chestnuts, birches, fir trees, pines, etc. and then serve as building material for the beehive.
Propolis contains about 50 percent resin and balsam, about 35 percent wax, about 10 percent oils and about 5 percent flower pollen. However, the composition varies depending on the origin. In fact, infections can threaten the existence of a bee colony. Bees cover the hive or tree cavity with propolis, closing cracks and narrowing the entrance holes with their resin. Bees also cover with propolis any objects perceived as foreign, such as animal carcasses that are too heavy to carry. This means that these foreign bodies no longer pose a risk of infection to the hive. Bee putty prevents diseases from entering the hive.
Propolis contains these active ingredients: flavonoids, caffeic acid derivatives, vitamins A, C, E, H and B, iron, potassium, calcium, copper, magnesium, manganese, zinc and selenium.
Application of propolis
Propolis ointment, cream and spray are available for application to the skin (mainly to promote wound healing). It can be used several times a day. However, the preparations should not be applied to open wounds.
Food supplements such as propolis capsules, powder and solution are in most cases declared as food supplements. Depending on the dosage of propolis is taken differently.
