How is Propolis obtained?

• propolis is a resinous substance that bees collect from the buds and bark of some plants such as poplars, birches, pines , firs, horse chestnuts, willows, oaks and elms. Inside the hive, propolis is used to seal any cracks and isolate the environment from predators and bad weather. In its natural state it appears as a resin of a usually dark color, viscous when hot, with a generally sour taste and a marked aroma.

What is Propolis made of?

• Propolis is largely composed of resins and balsams (50%), wax (25%), volatile essential oils (10%), pollen (5%), organic and mineral material (5%). Very important are also the flavonoids which, enhanced by the presence of anti-inflammatories and vitamins (C, E, B1, B2, B6, PP), play an important protective action on blood capillaries.

What is a Propolis Tincture?

• The tincture, obtained by diluting propolis in ethyl alcohol, is suitable for gargling, tamponing, brushing or inhalations. The ingestion of propolis tincture can take place together with honey or sugar (to mask the bitter taste), water or hot milk (in this case it is important to shake well as propolis tends to stick to the walls of the container). Normally, we recommend taking 5-15 drops a day.

How do bees use Propolis?

• Inside the hive is used as:

;

1. building material, it is in fact extremely useful for closing cracks, as thermal insulation and also to prevent the entry of insects
2. antiseptic paint inside the cells to create a sterilized cradle before the queen lays her eggs

When was its use dated?

• Its use dates back to very ancient times: in Egypt it was used for mummification, the Greeks and Romans collected it for its healing effects for sores and wounds and in South America the Incas used it to lower the body temperature in case of fever .