Propolis is a resinous substance collected by honeybees from the buds and bark of trees and shrubs. The resins are produced by trees as part of their immune system, healing wounds and protecting against the damaging effects of radiation.
These resins are taken back to the hive where the bees add salivary enzymes, wax and pollen. This mixture is used to protect the colony from disease and infection due to its high antimicrobial action. Propolis is used to varnish cells in the honeycomb before the Queen lays her eggs, thus ensuring a sterile environment for the development of the young larvae as they grow.
Large pests and invaders, such as mice, slugs and lizards, are often killed by the colony but cannot be removed due to their size. In this case the bees will cover them with a coating of propolis to prevent disease resulting from putrefaction.
Propolis is also used by the colony to reduce the size of the entrance for easier defense and to seal up cracks and holes. Propolis is sometimes referred to as “defender of the city” from the Greek origin of its name, pro (before) and polis (the city).
Composition of Propolis
A complex compound of biologically active substances including flavonoids, polyphenols, terpenes, phenolic esters and aromatic acids, each having distinct functional effects. However the synergistic effect of these compounds together is greater than the effect of any one substance.
History of Propolis
Propolis has a long history of medicinal use, dating back to 350 B.C., the time of Aristotle.
Greeks have used propolis for abscesses; Assyrians have used it for healing wounds and tumors; and Egyptians have used it for mummification.
Propolis still has many medicinal uses today.
