Propolis is a substance that bees collect from plants and then uses as a protective agent for their hive. With him, they cover interior walls of hives to make them sterilized, secure from moisture and insulate for unwanted visitors (other insects).
The color of propolis depends on the type of plant from which is collected. Propolis is usually greenish, yellowish or brownish in colour with very low-odor. With time, it losses smell, it becomes harder and gets darker color.
Propolis contains a large amount of mineral substances: manganese, zinc, barium, titanium, copper, tin, nickel, cobalt, chromium, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sulfur, sodium, iron, magnesium, molybdenum, selenium, antimony and few more. When it comes to vitamins which are present in propolis, they are: B1, B2, B6, A, C, E, RR, nicotinic, pantothenic acid and others. Also, propolis is rich in carotene.
Propolis has more than 50 substances that trigger the biological centers of the body. For example, zinc, manganese and copper activate the process of growth, development and reproduction, participate in the process of blood (with cobalt), regulate the process of exchange of matter, positively plug on the function of the gonads. In addition, zinc prolongs the effect of pancreatic hormones(insulin), which sharpens the vision.
Nitrogen components in propolis are proteins, amides, amines and amino acids. The general amount of nitrogen is about 0.7%. It is composed of amino acids such as aspartic, glutamic, tryptophan, phenylalanine, leucine, cysteine, methionine, valine, serine, histidine, arginine, proline, tyrosine, threonine, alanine and lysine.
When the temperature is below 15 degrees, propolis is in solid form. On 20 degrees it starts to soften and becomes sticky, and melts at a temperature of 80 degrees C. Propolis is soluble in water.
Propolis contains more than 55% of plant resins, 10% essential oils, 5% pollen and the remaining 30% are wax , balm, enzymes and other ingredients.
When it comes to treatments with propolis, propolis in generally is not used pure, but in the form of a solution (10%-30% solution).
The healing properties of propolis are widely known, in alternative and conventional medicine also.
Propolis is a natural antibiotic and anesthetic. For now it is best known for its antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Propolis is also very suitable for the treatment of fungal diseases. It is used for the treatment of respiratory, intestinal infections, internal parasites, inflammation in the mouth, periodontal disease, acne, eczema, burns, protects the liver, strengthens the immune system etc. Propolis is especially useful for people suffering from asthma.
Propolis also can be found in cosmetic industry, due to his great influence on the regeneration of tissue and antiseptic effect. For example, many effective treatments for removing warts are based on propolis. It is found in the composition of high-quality toothpaste and much more. Final number of medicinal preparations based on propolis today is very difficult to establish because it is constantly growing.
Propolis in general is safe to use, just follow the prescribed dosage and directions for use. The exceptions are people allergic to bee products, where they can get allergic reactions.
