Propolis or propolis, the remedy of bees: benefits and properties
The propolis or propolis provides benefits and medicinal properties ideal when raising the defenses and fight against colds and flu.
There is no doubt that there are many properties that give us a superfood as prominent as propolis (also known as propolis). Its properties, as we will see throughout this note, are due above all to the compounds that they contain, which help to increase the defenses of our organism in those moments in which we feel weakest. 
The use of this resinous substance as an antiseptic goes back about 2300 years. Not in vain, the ancient Egyptians used it in the process of mummification to avoid the decomposition of the corpses.
When the nectar and pollen are still not abundant, the bees collect this resin from the bark of the trees to harden the interior walls of the hive.
In this way, they repair the gaps, protecting it both from germs (fungi and bacteria) and from dangerous intruders.
It is therefore a difficult product to collect and quite expensive, especially because the propolis It is present in small amounts in honey.
What is propolis or propolis?
Propolis is a substance manufactured and produced by bees, which comes mostly from trees, mainly firs, pines and willows.
To make it, the bees get a part of their bark to then mix it with their saliva and wax, being very used by them for different functions in the hives.
For example, bees in the hives use propolis to insulate and protect their homes, being very useful when covering holes and preventing any "unwanted visitor" from damaging it. Also, did you know that they also use it to embalm the body of other insects?
And do you know why it's so expensive? Fundamentally because a colony of bees tends only to produce between 150 to 200 grams of propolis per year.
Benefits of propolis
Its different properties are based fundamentally on the presence of flavonoids, compounds that they favor the defenses of the organism against multiple aggressions. It is beneficial, therefore, in case of respiratory diseases.
But these are not the only benefits that propolis gives us. Do you want to discover more? Keep reading:
- Scientifically proven 20 properties: antibacterial, antifungal, phytoinhibitor, anticolesterolémico, antiparasitic, antituberculous, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antitoxic, epithelizing, antiallergic, analgesic, anesthetic, antiviral, cytostatic, deodorant, stimulant of immunogenesis, hemostatic, hypotensive and thermostabilizer .
- In the respiratory tract It is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that does not cause dysbacteriosis, with its important and known anti-flu effect. It also has anti-inflammatory and anesthetic action, making it an effective protector of the throat and vocal cords.
- At digestive system, regulates the appetite, contributes to the healing of anemic states, helps the regeneration of ulcers, prevents parasitosis and is protective of the liver.
- At circulatory system inhibits the oxidation of cholesterol, and normalizes blood pressure.
- It has a healing, anti-inflammatory and disinfectant capacity, being indicated for burns, wounds and skin conditions.
- It contributes to the healing of anemic states.
- Prevents arteriosclerosis
Contraindications of propolis or propolis: when it is not appropriate to take it
When it comes to consuming propolis or propolis, it is of vital importance do not exceed the maximum recommended doses, so that its consumption is as safe as possible. Thus, for adults it is advised not to exceed 5 mg. for each kg. of weight per day.
Let's give an example: if for example you weigh 60 kg., It is advisable not to exceed 300 mg of propolis per day, since you have to do the calculation multiplying your weight by 5 mg.
Having said that, follow the recommendations indicated on the packaging of the product of propolis that you have acquired.
However, there are a number of contraindications that make this natural product is not suitable to consume in certain circumstances or conditions. They are the following:
- Allergy to propolis:Its consumption is not advised in case you are allergic to propolis or other products of bees (such as honey or royal jelly).
- Allergic reactions:It is not recommended to take royal jelly in case of an allergic reaction, especially if this reaction is mild. When it occurs, symptoms such as skin irritation, digestive disorders (such as discomfort and diarrhea), as well as canker sores and mouth sores are common.
- Pregnancy and lactation:Although propolis has not been found to be safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding, it is best to consume it always under the supervision of a specialist.
