Let’s begin with a fact - did you know that honey isn’t the only thing that bees make? Bees also produce a compound called propolis from the sap on needle-leaved trees or evergreens. When they combine the sap with their own discharges and beeswax, they create a sticky, greenish-brown product used as a coating to build their hives. That, for us, is propolis.

Centuries ago, ancient civilizations used propolis for its medicinal properties. Greeks used it to treat abscesses. The Assyrians put it on wounds and tumours to fight infection and help the healing process. Even the Egyptians made use of it use of it and embalmed mummies with it.

Historically, propolis has been used in many different ways. Researchers have concluded that this is because the composition of propolis can vary depending on the location of the bees and what trees and flowers they have access to. For example, propolis from the UK won’t have the same chemical makeup as propolis from Brazil. This makes it difficult for researchers to come to general conclusions about its health benefits.

Researchers claim to have identified more than 300 compounds in propolis. The majority of these compounds are forms of polyphenols. Polyphenols are antioxidants that may fight disease and damage in the body. Specifically, propolis contains polyphenols called flavonoids. Flavonoids are produced in plants as a form of protection. They’re commonly found in foods that are thought to have antioxidant properties. 

Propolis incorporates antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. It also has a special compound called pinocembrin, a flavonoid that acts as an antifungal. These anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make propolis helpful in wound healing. Propolis may also be able to help people who have had traumatic burns, by promoting faster healing, as it can be used to speed up new and healthy cell growth.

In fact, propolis may also help speed up healing time and reduce symptoms in both cold sores and sores from genital herpes. It has been claimed that propolis might not just reduce the amount of herpes virus present in a person’s body but also protect the body against future cold sore breakouts.

Modern research suggests that propolis may be useful for:

  • Minor Wounds
  • Oral Hygiene
  • Inflammation
  • Cold Sores

At Regina Healthcare, we aim to provide nutrition-rich propolis straight from the beehive, formulated with a renewed lens and made worthy of your health and happiness. So, check out our healthy range of nutritious products on our website.