Useful properties and methods of using propolis

Propolis is another waste product of bees along with honey. It is a sticky substance made from pollen and bee saliva. It doesn't sound appetizing, but propolis has a lot of useful properties. The bees themselves use it as a disinfection for honeycombs and as an insulating material for the hive.

Propolis contains: vitamins of group B, A, C, H, E, PP, essential oils, flavonoids, aromatic acids and amino acids, iron, phosphorus, potassium, copper and many other components.

How is propolis good for humans?

• It is a natural antibiotic and anti-inflammatory.
• Fights skin diseases.
• Invigorates, tones the body, relieves fatigue.
• Improves metabolism and immunity.
• Soothes, reduces anxiety and tension.
• Improves digestion, blood circulation, lowers cholesterol levels.
• Fights diseases of the respiratory system.
• Strengthens teeth, gums, joints and bones.

Also in women, propolis helps to improve the menstrual cycle, accelerate the treatment of gynecological inflammatory diseases. For men, propolis can help with prostatitis and hemorrhoids.

Contraindications to the use of propolis:

• allergies to honey and other bee products
• allergic rhinitis
• constipation
• bronchial asthma
• non-clotting blood
• serious illnesses, tumors
• pregnancy, breastfeeding
• children under 6 years old.

In any case, you should consult your doctor before using propolis.

Side effects of propolis overdose:

• nausea, vomiting
• dizziness
• upset digestion.

How to take propolis?

Ointments, tinctures, teas are made from it. Tinctures contain alcohol, therefore they are contraindicated in children. But you can try to do tincture on water. You need to combine boiled water and propolis in a 2: 1 ratio. The mixture must be heated in a water bath to 80 degrees, cooled and left for 6 hours. You can store the tincture no longer than a week. You can take a maximum of 1 tbsp per day. l. tinctures (for children - 2 times less).

Also a healthy drink is made from milk with propolis - it is considered useful for colds. Boil milk, add 20 g of powdered propolis, cook for 25 minutes, then strain. Take 1 tsp. 15 minutes before meals no longer than 7 days (but you need a doctor's consultation).

Propolis also perfectly complements tea, because it retains the aromas of honey, herbs and pine needles. To do this, add 20-40 drops of tincture or a little natural propolis to warm tea.

Propolis can be used in its pure form - for example, chewed, but you cannot swallow it. Chewing propolis is considered useful for gum and dental diseases, sore throat. However, you can chew for no longer than 10 minutes, otherwise you risk getting a mucous membrane burn.

You will also be interested to read:

• How to identify good honey
• Honey: golden rules of use
• Best drinks for kids for colds