Propolis is a resin containing a mixture of secretions and substances that bees collect from trees, plant buds, leaves and stems. The bees use it to prevent the growth of germs on the honeycombs, to add it to building materials and for mummification. Basically, the substance is produced with the help of trees and is the result of the bees combining the substances they collect with their secretions.
Propolis is a natural product used from ancient times to the present day. The substance, which has many benefits for the body, has often been used to cure people's diseases. While it contains more than 250 components, it protects and strengthens the immune system.
What are the Benefits of Propolis?
It is beneficial for the immune system and helps immune functions. It increases immune resistance and provides protection against diseases seen in winter. Other benefits of propolis to the human body are as follows:
- It is an effective antioxidant
- Supports the body in terms of general health
- Prevents inflammation in the body
- Effective against viruses, bacteria and fungi
- Used in the treatment of eczema and acne
- It has pain relieving properties
- Useful for sore throats
- Good for stomach and intestinal diseases
- Effective in gum problems
- Effective against infections that may occur in the urinary tract
Which diseases is propolis good for?
It supports cholesterol levels, balances blood pressure and is effective against cardiovascular diseases. The problems and diseases that the substance, which has many benefits for the skin, benefits are as follows;
- Provides benefit for skin diseases
- Good for skin irritations, inflammation and burns
- Renews the skin's structure and provides a youthful appearance
- Moisturizing
- Eliminates acne and bacteria
- Heals wounds on the body
- Prevents the increase of cancerous cells and protects cells
What Vitamins are in Propolis?
The main role of the active components of the substance, which has more than 250 components and varies according to the location of the hives, is flavonoids. There are caffeic acid and ferulic acids with antioxidant properties. The vitamins and minerals contained in it are as follows:
- Vitamins B1, B2 and B6
- Vitamins C and E
- Magnesium
- Potassium
- Calcium
- Zinc
- Iron
Phenolic acid types, which are found in fruits and vegetables, are more abundant in propolis and have high antioxidant properties.
Who Cannot Use Propolis?
It is especially dangerous for people with allergies and asthma. A doctor should definitely be consulted before use. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, a doctor should be consulted before use to prevent any allergic reactions or side effects. It should also be used on the advice of a doctor in some cases. Some of these situations; People with blood clotting problems, people with problems on the immune system or people who have undergone organ transplantation can use it with the advice of a doctor.
How should Propolis be consumed?
Its raw form is not used. First, it needs to be processed and made suitable for consumption. When it becomes suitable for consumption, the usage methods are as follows;
- Can be consumed as a food supplement
- Can be diluted in water and used as a mouthwash
- It can be used on the skin in various ways
It can be found as an active ingredient in many products. It should be used according to the content of the products. The substance, which can be used on the skin and orally, does not have many side effects.
What should be considered when consuming propolis?
There are some situations that should be considered before consuming. First of all, the content of the product to be used should be known and care should be taken to avoid any allergic condition. It is not recommended for people who are allergic to honey products. It should be used in moderation. Some problems may arise if consumed too much. If the person will undergo surgical intervention, it should not be used before. It is extremely dangerous to take with alcohol. In these cases, stomach problems occur. The person may experience nausea, vomiting and burning in the stomach. In addition, people with bleeding risk should not use it according to the amount of coumarin in the extract of the substance.
Can Children Consume Propolis?
Use in children should be applied with the opinion and advice of a specialist doctor. Children with asthma or allergies to honey products should not consume it. It can also be dangerous to use in children with serious reactions to bee stings. Apart from these, children can consume water-based honey.