Propolis

Propolis is a resinous material that bees use to seal small cracks and gaps in the hive (beeswax seals the larger gaps). It’s made when bees collect resin from trees and other sources and mix it with a little bit of honey. Propolis has been found to offer numerous health benefits, and research is carried out to evaluate its role for various therapeutic uses.

In ancient cultures, propolis was often used for abscesses and minor wounds. Bees, in an effort to close gaps in hives, use propolis as a precautionary measure to keep out dangerous microbes and fungi. Recent findings have confirmed its potent action against many harmful pathogens and more research has established its enormous healing benefits.

Researchers have shown that propolis may offer powerful antibiotic properties. The isolated acids from propolis have been shown to be an effective agent against many bacteria. In addition, there has been some evidence that propolis supports the immune system and reduces the risk for infections.