We might think of bees as more of a summer nuisance, but they are in fact crucial to nature’s ecosystem and biodiversity on which we all depend for our survival. They pollinate our wild trees and flowers, which then support other insects, which then support birds, bats, mammals, and everything up the food chain with food and shelter. Furthermore, they are the producers of honey and other medicinal and health-enhancing compounds that are beneficial to humans such as propolis, bee pollen and royal jelly. In this blog, we will delve into the world of propolis and royal jelly, exploring its origins, composition, and the various ways it contributes to human well-being.
The healing properties of propolis: nature's antibiotic
In the realm of natural substances, propolis stands out as a remarkable substance, often hailed as "nature's antibiotic”. This resinous substance - which is derived from these wonderful insects, the bees - plays a crucial role in hive construction and protection. However, its benefits extend far beyond the bee colony, also offering a range of health benefits for us.
Propolis, also known as bee glue, is a wax-like substance harvested and collected by honeybees from the buds and sap of certain trees and plants such as birch, poplar, and alder. The word propolis is derived from the Greek words ‘pro’ and ‘polis’, meaning ‘defence of the city’. Bees use propolis to seal and protect their hives, reinforcing the structural integrity and creating a barrier against external threats and pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. This natural shield not only safeguards the hive but also houses a treasure trove of bioactive compounds with potent health benefits. Propolis owes its beneficial effects primarily to the presence of flavonoids, including chrysin, quercetin, galangin, and pinocembrin, which are known for their antioxidant, antifungal, and antibacterial properties.
Why is propolis considered an ideal supplement during the winter months for immune system support and increased resistance?
Propolis is an all-around marvel that was bestowed upon us by nature. 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 latter being one of the more remarkable aspects of propolis. The polyphenols and flavonoids present in propolis act as immunomodulators, enhancing the body's defence mechanisms and fortifying its ability to resist infections and diseases. The immune system is stimulated through the activation of macrophages and a greater production of antibodies. One of the upsides of propolis is that pathogens do not develop a resistance to it, making it the ideal supplement during the winter months to support your immune system and increase general resistance. Here are some health benefits that propolis has on the body:
Immune System Support
Propolis is renowned for its immune-boosting properties. The combination of polyphenols and flavonoids helps modulate the immune response, promoting the body's ability to ward off infections and illnesses, making it a wonderful natural treatment for the common cold and respiratory illness.
Antimicrobial Action
The antimicrobial properties of propolis are a result of its rich content of bioactive compounds. It has demonstrated effectiveness against various bacteria, viruses, and fungi, making it a natural alternative to traditional antibiotics.
Anti-inflammatory Effect
Inflammation is a common factor in many chronic diseases. Propolis' anti-inflammatory properties help mitigate inflammation, providing relief for conditions such as arthritis and inflammatory skin disorders.
Allergy Modulating
Research has shown that propolis can inhibit histamine release from mast cells, modulation allergies and the symptoms associated with these.
Skin Health
Propolis has a very protective and soothing effect on the skin. It can help to treat acne and hyperpigmentation as well as reduce redness and wrinkles.
Blood Pressure Control
Propolis helps to ensure we have adequate levels of nitric oxide. Nitric oxide expands the blood vessels, increasing blood flow and decreasing plaque growth and blood clotting.
Wound Healing
Propolis has been used for centuries to promote wound healing. Its antimicrobial and tissue-regenerating properties make it a valuable natural remedy for cuts, burns, and skin infections.
Oral Health
With its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory actions, propolis contributes to oral health. It has been incorporated into oral care products and is recognized for its ability to combat bacteria associated with cavities and gum disease. We often forget that oral health is closely connected to our overall well-being, so taking care of our teeth and gums is as essential as taking care of our other body systems.
Antioxidant Power
The high concentration of antioxidants in propolis helps neutralize free radicals, protecting cells from damage and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Free radicals and oxidative stress they cause are the underlying cause of many of today’s ailments, including chronic diseases, ageing, cognitive decline and physical pain.
How is royal jelly different from propolis in terms of its source and production?
Unlike propolis, which is derived from sap and buds from wild trees and flowers, royal jelly is a complex substance made by the bees themselves. Royal jelly is the crown jewel of bee nutrition. It is a white-yellow substance secreted by worker bees that serves as exclusive nourishment for the queen bee through her entire life as well as developing bee larvae during the first days of their existence.
It is a substance with a high nutritional value, containing a unique combination of water, proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and many bio-active substances, such as 10-HDA, acetylcholine, adenosine, and polyphenols.
The largest protein component in royal jelly is Major Royal Jelly Protein, composed of different proteins such as royalsin and peptides such as apisin and jeleine, which are immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial. The main fatty acid, 10-HDA, is not only a marker of the authenticity of royal jelly, but also a potent anti-inflammatory compound. The presence of acetylcholine helps support the autonomic nervous system, whilst adenosine has a beneficial influence on the central nervous system and is an important building block for energy molecules such as ATP, the body’s main energy source.
How does Royal Jelly contribute to greater levels of energy?
Royal Jelly stimulates and strengthens the body’s natural defences, contributes to greater levels of energy, helps to combat tiredness, and is an ideal aid to recovery after sickness. Whilst royal jelly has overlapping health benefits with propolis, there are some differences.
Immune System Support
The vitamins and minerals in royal jelly contribute to overall immune system health, helping the body defend against infections and illnesses. It is particularly restorative for the mucus layer and can help reduce asthma.
Heart Health
Studies have demonstrated that royal jelly has a beneficial effect on cholesterol levels, lowering LDL and triglycerides whilst increasing HDL, thus reducing the risk of heart and cardiovascular disease.
Cognitive Function
Preliminary research suggests that royal jelly may have neuroprotective effects, potentially benefiting cognitive function, supporting brain health, and positively impacting dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease protection.
Antioxidant Properties
Royal jelly is rich in antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals, protecting cells from oxidative stress damage and supporting anti-aging mechanisms.
Energy and Vitality
The combination of nutrients in royal jelly, including B vitamins and amino acids, can contribute to increased energy levels and overall vitality.
Hormonal Balance
The presence of compounds like royalactin in royal jelly has been linked to potential hormonal benefits. Some believe it may help promote hormonal balance and reproductive health.
Skin Health
Royal jelly's nutritional content may contribute to healthier skin as it has been shown to boost collagen production, suppress skin pigmentation, and support wound healing, making it a great anti-aging product.
Physalis products
Propolis forte bio syrup
This food supplement is powerful in supporting your airways and strengthening your overall resistance. It contains extracts of propolis, black currant and elderberry and essential oils of ginger and orange. In addition to the powerful immune modulating and anti-inflammatory effects of the propolis, ginger supports the body's natural resistance and energy levels, while elderberry contributes towards the the upper airway recovery and lowering fever. Black currant further enhances the anti-inflammatory working of the syrup. The orange essential oil has been added to uplift, reduce stress and support your sleep.
Take 15 ml twice a day.
Propolis forte bio tablets
Supplements in the form of a table are a potent way to get the concentrated active substances to support our health. Not only do these tablets contain propolis, but they also contain Royal Jelly, both powerfully substances in their own right, but even more effective when used in combination. These tablets work as a natural antibiotic, build immune resistance, combat infections, and have an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect. This product also contains acerola, a potent natural source vitamin C, which is an important co-enzyme in many bodily processes that strengthen the immune system. The acerola cherry was specifically selected as it is very rich in vitamin C, containing up to 100 times more than an orange. Furthermore, the bright red colour of the cherry indicates a high concentration of polyphenols, namely anthocyanins, that have a very strong antioxidative effect on the body and deep in the cells.
Take 1 tablet twice a day with plenty of water.
↪ Visit Propolis forte tablets
Royal jelly forte bio ampules
Royal Jelly Forte ampules were created to truly bring the potency of this magical compound to you. It has a high concentration of royal jelly, 2000 mg per ampule, which is complemented by acerola extract for its vitamin C content. Due to its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory effect, this combination ensures a strongly supported immune system, assists in energy metabolism, and helps with recovery after illness.
Take 1 ampule per day. It can also be taken as a cure and can be repeated on various occasions throughout the year.
↪ Discover Royal jelly forte ampules
Propolis forte bio plant drops
Propolis forte bio plant drops contain concentrated amounts of propolis extract and offer a convenient and concentrated way to harness the potential health benefits of this remarkable substance. 10% of fresh propolis per litre of tincture is used. The finely ground propolis is macerated for at least three weeks in water and alcohol and are stirred each day. This combination of water and alcohol makes the extraction of most of the active compounds possible . The macerate is then decanted and the remaining mass pressed. This filtration process results in a clear solution that has undergone a traditional production process, resulting in a safe and sufficient hydro-alcoholic extract.
Whether you're seeking immune support, antimicrobial action, or overall wellness, propolis plant drops may be a valuable addition to your natural health regimen.
Add up to 30 drops 3 times per day to some water.
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Echinacea & Propolis bio plant drops
To further complement the immunosupportive effects of propolis, echinacea was added to this tincture. Our natural resistance is tested on a daily basis, especially during wintertime, so a little help from nature can make all the difference. Echinacea is known to stimulate the immune system to fight infections, and thus prevents us getting sick, but it can especially help in the treatment of illness and respiratory disease more effectively.
Take 30 drops 3 times per day with some water.
↪ Discover Echinacea & Propolis plant drops
Note: As with any supplement, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating propolis plant drops into your routine, especially if you have any existing health conditions or concerns.
Propolis and royal jelly stand as a testament to the extraordinary power hidden within the bee's ingenious creations. Embrace the wisdom of nature and let these substances support you in a healthier and more vibrant life.
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