Propolis - Health Benefits

Propolis is one of bee products and is used as natural antibiotic in the application of home remedies. 


Honey bees produce propolis by collecting sticky resins that ooze from the buds of some trees and plants. After chewing them and mixing them with their saliva and other substances, propolis is formed.


Some trees and conifers produce these sticky resins as part of their immune system defending themselves against diseases .


Propolis is used inside the hive for sterilizing the hive against diseases and infections by inhibiting the spread of bacteria, virus, and fungi .


Propolis is also known as 'bee glue',as it is used as a "putty" to seal cracks and openings in the hive and to strengthen and repair honeycombs .


Propolis contains approximately 50-70% resins, 30% wax, 10% etheric oils and 5% pollen. It has a high vitamin content (Vitamin A (carotene), Vitamin B1, B2, B3, biotin) and is extremely rich in bioflavonoids (Vitamin P) which are believed to have numerous immune building properties and health benefits.

Bioflavonoids are the natural pigments in fruits and vegetables and are found in abundance in oranges. This bee glue contains almost 500 times more bioflavonoids than is found in oranges!

It also contains an array of albumin, calcium, magnesium, potassium and phosphorus.

It is especially rich in amino acids, important for immune system function.

Because of its antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, Propolis has been used as :

-Ointments for healing cuts and wounds

-A natural alternative to penicillin and other antibiotics .

- Rinses for washing, gargling or irrigating the sinuses .

- A healthy alternative to synthetic brands of toothpastes as it is especially useful in mouth and gum disorders and prevents tooth decay, enhances oral hygiene, heals bleeding gums, and prevents gums receding.

Propolis extract now  comes in the form of sprays and candies. The spray claims that it is effective against flu, cuts, burns, gum and mouth infections, throat discomforts and intestinal discomfort, while the candy is sold as a good therapeutic substitute to the traditional throat lozenges and an aid to curing flu, colds, throat discomfort, cough and bad breath .

Side effects :

Propolis is generally non-toxic, though allergic reactions such as skin rashes, swelling, redness, eczema or fever have been reported.

Contra indications :

Women should not use Propolis during pregnancy and breast-feeding unless directed to do so by a physician.  

Magdy Elhalawany