Bees do a lot more than just make honey for human consumption — they make bee propolis and pollen.

What is propolis?

Propolis is a dark, brittle substance that is mixed together with beeswax and sap resins to form the overall structure of a bee hive. Our ancestors valued this prized gem as well as pollen for its ability to heal wounds dating back before the Civil War and some believe it has the ability to cure ailments ranging from cancer to tuberculosis. Now that you know that, let’s skip the honey and move on to what bees really provide us: a cure.

Propolis Extract

Propolis extract is found in more places than you would think.

This organic compound packs a powerful punch in a micro-size amount, making it the perfect ingredient for common consumer items. Enjoy chewing gum? Most likely you have been chewing on a little propolis as well.

Women that powder their face with cream foundations or slather on the lipstick will be surprised to find that bees had a little to do with creating their favorite shade of pearly pink or luscious red. The extract found in propolis works as a binder and soon might even be used in dental applications as a sealant for cracked teeth and poor tooth enamel.

Medicinal Benefits

Bee propolis benefits are a plenty when it comes to medicinal purposes. Propolis is used by practioners to give relief in ailments such as:

• Immflamatory diseases
• Viral disease
• Ulcers
• Superficial burns

What’s more, is propolis tinctures, a concentrated extract of the propolis, has been shown to promote a healthier heart and even provide a boost to the immune system. Poor cataracts have been shown to improve with daily doses of propolis as well.

Have a sore throat? Sore throat lozenges, especially of the organic variety, contain — you’ve guessed it — propolis. Ailments far and wide have found relief from the use of propolis extract and the variety of uses goes on:

•  Antimicrobial: Bee propolis is a powerful antifungal and antibacterial application that has been used for centuries to ward off infection in wounds
• Emollients: Skin burns can find relief with a concentrated cream that contains bee propolis
• Antiplaque: Individuals suffering from plaque buildup or other dental afflictions can use the antibacterial and antimicrobial properties of bee extracts to ward off plaque and other buildup in the teeth and gums

The Wonder of Bee Pollen

You may be turned off at first to the idea of bee pollen, but bee pollen is nothing to scoff at. These raw granules are a super food in the natural health industry and beat out some heavy hitters such as flax seed or walnuts.

This all-in-one superfood can be mixed into your morning drink or even by using a little imagination, you can blend it with foods.

Just how do you eat bee pollen granules? Try popping up some popcorn for a movie snack, but rather than adding cheese sprinkles or pepper, add in a sprinkle of pollen granules instead — presto! Super vitamins and a fun-loving snack in one sitting.

There are numerous forms of bee granules, however the most effective is organic bee pollen. Organic has not been processed and is in the same form your ancestors took and well, as nature intended it to be. You get the powerful punch of essential nutrients like protein, carbohydrates, minerals and of course, essential fatty-acids.

Allergy Considerations

Though there are numerous health benefits to the consumption of bee pollen, however; one thing you must keep in mind is allergies. If you are susceptible to an allergic reaction from a bee sting or you are allergic to honey, then the results of taking propolis or pollen granules will most likely be the same.

If you have had a history of allergic reactions to balsam of Peru or black poplar, you should also avoid the use of any bee extract products. Use can result in redness, burning, swelling or fluid retention if a reaction does occur. Consult a physician before taking any bee extracts if you have had history of allergic reaction to bee venom or stings.

From medicinal purposes to simple health boosters, bee pollen has proven throughout the centuries to tackle a human’s most dire ailments and afflictions and bring them to relief. Who would have thought such a small little insect could have such a big impact on the world. With the variety of health benefits and uses of pollen and propolis, it is no wonder those bees stay so busy. Sure honey is delectable, but there is nothing sweeter than the optimum health benefits of bee propolis.