What Is Bee Propolis

Bee propolis is the the sticky substance which bees use to hold the hive together. To make it , bees collect a resinous substance which is secreted by the wounds or buds of some trees, then combine it with wax and bee pollen in the hive.

Bee propolis is used by bees to seal the hive. There is some speculation as to the reason's for its use, but its purpose appears to be prevent entry to the hive of predators, bacteria and disease. The active botanical ingredients in bee propolis are believed to protect the hive and its inhabitants.

Bee propolis contains compounds which are believed to be beneficial to our health. It has been used for many centuries as a natural medicine.

Today it is used in western alternative medicines. It is marketed by many alternative health products companies and is available in many forms including:

• bee propolis extract
• bee propolis cream
• bee propolis liquid

It's also distributed in lozenge form, as a throat spray and even as propolis toothpaste.

The benefits are believed to emanate from it's antibiotic and anti fungal properties. It can be used both externally and internally. It has been used to treat inflammations, burns and ulcers.

Is Bee Propolis Good For You?

There have been a number of clinical studies conducted, some with promising results. There has been difficulty in interpreting some of the results due to composition differing according to location and time of year. I will write about some of these studies in future articles on this website.

It's important to note that people who are sensitive to bee products be experience may experience a severe reaction through the use of this product.

I also read on Wikipedia that bee propolis has been used to enhance the appearance of the wood grain of some musical instruments by their makers