Propolis or propolis provides benefits and ideal medicinal properties when it comes to raising the defenses. Find out how to take it and its contraindications.
The propolis or propolis brings benefits and medicinal properties ideal time to raise defenses and fight colds and flu.
There is no doubt that there are many properties that a superfood as prominent as propolis (also known by the name of propolis) gives us. Its properties, as we will see throughout this note, are mainly due to the compounds they contain, which help to increase the defenses of our body in those moments when we feel weaker.
The use of this resinous substance as an antiseptic dates back some 2300 years. Not surprisingly, the ancient Egyptians used it in the mummification process to prevent the decomposition of corpses.
When nectar and pollen are still not abundant, bees collect this resin from the bark of trees to harden the inner walls of the hive.
In this way, they repair the gaps, protecting it from both germs (fungi and bacteria) and dangerous intruders.
It is therefore a difficult product to collect and quite expensive, especially since propolis is present in small quantities in honey.
What is propolis or propolis?
Propolis is a substance manufactured and produced by bees, which comes mostly from trees, mainly fir, pine and willow.
To make it, bees obtain a part of their bark and then mix it with their saliva and wax, being widely used by them for different functions in hives.
For example, in hives the bees use propolis to isolate and protect their homes, being very useful when it comes to covering holes and preventing any “unwanted visitor” from damaging it. In addition, did you know that they also use it to embalm the body of other insects?
And do you know why it is so expensive? Mainly because a colony of bees only tends to produce between 150 to 200 grams of propolis per year.
Benefits of propolis
Its different properties are fundamentally based on the presence of flavonoids, compounds that favor the body’s defenses against multiple attacks. It is beneficial, therefore, in case of respiratory conditions.
But these are not the only benefits that propolis brings us. Do you want to discover more? Keep reading:
- Scientifically it has been shown 20 properties: antibacterial, antifungal, phytoinhibitor, anticolesterolemic, antiparasitic, antituberculous, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antitoxic, epithelializing, antiallergic, analgesic, anesthetic, antiviral, cytostatic, deodorant, immuno-stabilizer, hypotensive and hemostatic .
- In the respiratory tract it is a broad spectrum antibiotic that does not cause dysbacteriosis, with its important and known anti-flu effect. It also has anti-inflammatory and anesthetic action, making it an effective protector of the throat and vocal cords.
- In the digestive system, it regulates the appetite, contributes to the healing of anemic states, helps the regeneration of ulcers, prevents parasitosis and is protective of the liver.
- In the circulatory system, it inhibits the oxidation of cholesterol, and normalizes blood pressure.
- It has healing, anti-inflammatory and disinfectant capacity, being indicated for burns, wounds and skin conditions.
- Contributes to the cure of anemic states.
- Prevents arteriosclerosis.
Contraindications of propolis or propolis: when it is not appropriate to take it
When consuming propolis or propolis, it is vitally important not to exceed the maximum recommended doses, so that its consumption is as safe as possible. Thus, for adults it is advisable not to exceed 5 mg. for each kg. Weight per day.
Let’s take an example: if for example you weigh 60 kg, it is advisable not to exceed 300 mg of propolis per day, since you have to do the calculation by multiplying your weight by 5 mg.
That said, it is essential to follow the recommendations indicated on the packaging of the propolis product that you have purchased.
However, there are a series of contraindications that make this natural product not suitable for consumption in certain circumstances or conditions. They are as follows:
- Allergy to propolis: Its consumption is not recommended in case you are allergic to propolis or other bee products (such as honey or royal jelly).
- Allergic reactions: It is not recommended to take royal jelly in case of an allergic reaction, especially even if this reaction is mild. When it occurs, symptoms such as skin irritation, digestive disorders (such as malaise and diarrhea), as well as canker sores and mouth sores are often common.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Although propolis has not been found to be unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding, it is best to always consume it under the supervision of a specialist.
