Health benefits of Bee Propolis! Bee propolis is the resinous mixture produced by honey bees that combines beeswax, their own saliva and exuded substances collected from sapping flows and tree buds.
Propolis and its extracts have numerous applications in treating various diseases due to its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, antimycotic, antifungal, antiulcer, anticancer, and immunomodulatory properties.
The color of bee propolis is usually dark brown. Bees use it more as a sealing agent to cover gaps and cracks in their hives to ward off lizards and snakes.
The substance dates back to 350 B.C., and the ancient Egyptians used it in their mummification processes. Assyrians and Greeks too used it to heal wounds and tumors.
Bee propolis is a less-known superfood that actually has so many medicinal and healing properties. Let’s have a look at some of the beauty benefits of bee propolis for hair, skin, nails and more!
10 Amazing Health Benefits of Bee Propolis
1. Supporting oral health
During ancient times, Roman and Greek physicians were said to have used propolis as a mouth disinfectant, and modern scientific studies today have shown that it offers beneficial properties for oral health. Due to its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antiviral and analgesic properties, it’s been found to be effective for treating gingivitis and periodontitis, as well as for reducing cavities and limiting bacterial plaque. And, it may even be a good natural alternative to fluoride.
2. Fights acne
The natural antibiotic content of bee propolis kills the germs that cause acne. The antibacterial effect is one of the best beauty benefits of bee propolis for skin. You can apply bee propolis topically to fight acne and pimples.
However, should the skin be damaged by acne already, internal consumption of bee pollen helps incredibly! Its high cell turnover effects and anti-inflammatory properties make acne-ridden skin blemish-free and clear.
3. Anti-aging effects
By consuming bee propolis regularly, you can get timeless skin. Its high antioxidant content wards off free radicals that are generated by toxins, sun rays, pollutants, chemicals and environmental impurities. Application of bee propolis on the skin protects it and prevents fine lines and wrinkles.
4. Leaves your skin glowing
Eating bee pollen regularly leads to a glowing complexion as does a direct application on the face.
A face mask comprising half a mashed avocado, one teaspoon of fresh lemon juice, one teaspoon of raw honey and a few drops of bee propolis may be applied on the face and neck and kept for about 15 minutes. Rinse off with warm water in the shower and watch your skin glow.
5. Strengthens nails
Regular consumption of bee pollen is also known to strengthen your fingernails and protect them from breaking easily. Don’t
6. Improves skin color
Since bee propolis contains flavonoids, phytosterols, and carotenoids, it promotes cell regeneration. So, whether you consume it or apply it, it improves the skin’s tone and appearance as also its elasticity.
7. Heals wounds
Bee propolis heals open wounds faster through quicker cell regeneration because of its strong anti-inflammatory and immuno-modulation properties.
When consumed internally, it increases the production of minerals like silica, which builds skin cells in the body.
8. Boosting the immune system
The immune system plays a crucial role in sustaining one’s health and vitality. It helps to protect the body from disease and infection and has a key part in longevity and the aging process in general. A weak immune system makes one more susceptible to contracting disease and illness, some of which can develop into serious or even life-threatening conditions like cancer.
In a deteriorating immune system, cell degeneration results, but we may be able to slow that process by introducing certain compounds like propolis which are rich in flavonoids. Propolis is believed to work by promoting cellular regeneration while supporting the immune system through its cell building compounds thanks to its range of flavonoids.
Ancient cultures that used propolis like the Egyptians found that it was able to accelerate the healing of cuts, bruises and other minor wounds. Science has proven those effects as well.
9. Lowering blood pressure
As the inner lining of the blood vessels needs nitric oxide for signaling the smooth muscles that surround them to relax and, ultimately, increase blood flow, it’s a very important substance for a healthy heart.
10. Fighting ear infections
Ear infections are common in children especially, with millions suffering from them every year, though many adults get them occasionally too. Serious ear infections can even lead to temporary hearing loss.
Many parents have been at a loss as to what to do after their children suffered from recurring painful ear infections, and some have found relief from propolis when nothing else has worked. Their experiences have been backed by science too.