Propolis tincture, or propolis extract, is derived from bee propolis. It is a product made by bees as a sealant for their hives. Bees mix their saliva, beeswax, and sap they collect from trees and plants. Since bee propolis is made of so many composites (over 300 hundred) it has many properties that are useful to human nutrition and medicine. Propolis is one of the most popular forms in which you can find bee propolis. It can also come in powders, ointments, mouth sprays, and capsules. The reason for its popularity is because of its many different medicinal and health boosting uses. So, if you are asking yourself “What are the benefits of tincture?” Then go ahead and read on.
Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
Propolis can be used as an anti-inflammatory agent when used topically or ingested. Researchers have found that it is great for healing
both external and internal wounds and ulcers. The fact that it is an anti-inflammatory makes it also useful for respiratory infections, because it can reduce any swelling that can make breathing more difficult.
Anti-Bacterial Benefits
Propolis has been shown to fight bacteria and plaque inside of the mouth. It is also effective in cleaning wounds in order to prevent infection and as mentioned above, it can help fight respiratory infections.
Anti-Viral Benefits
Can you believe that propolis tincture can actually help fight a herpes outbreak? Numerous studies have shown that propolis can fight certain viruses, included the herpes simplex type 2 virus.
Benefits of Women
Tincture can be useful to women who suffer from certain hormonal and bleeding conditions. Propolis can be helpful to women suffering from PMS and to women who are assailed by those dreaded hot flashes during menopause. Beyond these important benefits to women, bee propolis has actually been shown to aid women with certain bleeding conditions and infertility.
Health and Beauty
Propolis tincture is even finding its way into the beauty industry. Most women, and some beauty conscious men, are well aware of the use of bee products in the beauty industry. Beeswax, honey, etc. are all used in soaps, lotions, and other cosmetics to help make our skin supple and let our natural beauty shine through. Bee propolis may be going even a step beyond! Although more research has to be done in the area, some studies suggest that the anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of bee propolis can help fight acne. Now, this is news teenagers (and some adults) everywhere can be very excited about.
Make Your Very Own Tincture at Home
Recipes for making propolis tincture are very easy to find. It is similar to making any other type of extract. The first thing you will need is some bee propolis. Of course, you could don your own protective suit and gather some from an apiary, but a better idea is to just visit a local bee keeper and purchase some. You will want to put about 300 grams of the propolis in a jar in order to mix it with 700 grams of alcohol. You may use rubbing alcohol if you are not planning on ingesting the tincture. However, it is better to use a high proof vodka or grain alcohol. After you have prepared the mixture, you will want to close the jar and put it in a dark and warm place. Let the mixture sit for about two weeks, making sure to shake it every once in a while.
Precautions
Just like with any other product made from bees, allergic reactions may occur when using bee tincture. There is also evidence that bee propolis may interact with certain cancer medications and that it could be harmful to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Whether for medicinal or beauty purposes, please make sure you speak to your doctor before using bee propolis tincture.