Let’s talk about Propolis. I think of it as a gift from the gods. Bees produce it, something science cannot make. A resinous substance collected by bees from tree leaves and bark which is used to fill crevices and to seal and varnish honeycombs. It is a natural glue. Propolis is also used to line the birthing chamber where the queen lays her eggs which provides a sterile environment.
Propolis contains all known vitamins except for vitamin K. It contains all fourteen minerals the human body requires for normal function, but one, which is sulfur. It also has 16 amino acids and more bioflavonoids than are found in oranges. It is antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory (The Herbal Encyclopedia – Rev. Dr. Lisa Waltz, ND, DD, CNC). It can be found along with bee pollen in raw honey. Also, it comes in capsules and other forms.
Describing bioflavonoids is very technical, but one definition is that they are any of a group of compounds occurring mainly in citrus fruits and black currants, formerly regarded as vitamins. They are also found in some of the foods we eat. They are important, as stated above for propolis, because their benefits include being anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant (inhibits oxidation, removes damaging oxidizing agents), and antiviral. Foods rich in bioflavonoids include celery, parsley, herbs, peppers, berries, pomegranates, plums, red wine, grapes, citrus fruits, soybeans (use only fermented soy foods), legumes, onions, leeks, Brussels sprouts, kale, broccoli, tea, beans, apples and cocoa.
Propolis can be helpful in treating allergies, skin ailments, infections, flu, bronchitis, respiratory problems, fatigue, sore throats, and even Parkinson’s disease to name a few. Propolis is a natural antibiotic.
If you are using prescription medicines or herbs, or over the counter meds, be sure to check with your doctor before combining them with bioflavonoids or propolis. But it is said that using flavonoids can lower blood pressure. Do not use propolis if you are allergic to bees or bee products.
Propolis also slows the progression of atherosclerosis by preventing vascular endothelial dysfunction through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities (MedlinePlus.gov).
Bee pollen like propolis is a bee product which is collected during the pollination process. Propolis is used more for infections to build the immune system and it’s good for sore throats because of its zinc content. Bee pollen is used to help with seasonal allergies. If you use honey, it’s important to make sure it contains the pollen which provides the antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and essential amino acids that support the body. You can also get bee pollen in dried form without the honey to use during allergy season or for allergy episodes. It does come raw also and can be frozen. Dried pollen will last much longer. It can be refrigerated and frozen.
I welcome comments or questions. All best, Giulietta
Website: https://www.gpassarelli.com
I am a certified reflexologist and nutrition counselor besides being a self-published author, poet, and writer. Have been sugar-free since 9-1-01.