Propolis

What benefits does propolis available at pharmacies offer?

Bees, as we know, have a direct positive impact on the environment. They contribute to the perpetual renewal of flora through pollination. But that’s not all—they produce bee products whose therapeutic properties have been known and recognized for a very long time. Among these is propolis, a more or less solid resin that protects the buds and young shoots of certain trees. Acting as a natural barrier against pathogens, bees collect it to bring it back to the hive, where they use it to protect the hive from microbial infections. And if it’s good for the hives, it’s good for us. In fact, propolis has excellent anti-infective and immunostimulant properties; it is particularly effective in winter, supporting the ENT and respiratory systems, as well as helping with skin conditions, depending on the form of propolis used.

A plant-based substance produced by bees to keep their hive sterile, propolis—whether pure or in liquid form—has been renowned since ancient times for its beneficial effects in treating and preventing respiratory conditions. Propolis helps boost our immune system, fight infections, and also has antiseptic and purifying effects on the skin.

Thanks to its rich nutritional content, propolis is ideal for many conditions: it helps relieve respiratory ailments such as sore throats, colds, sinusitis, and the flu, while naturally strengthening the immune system. It is also effective in treating oral and dental conditions such as canker sores, gingivitis, stomatitis, and cavities. When used topically, propolis helps soothe skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, acne, wounds, burns, cold sores, and warts. Finally, it can also be used to slow hair loss.

Propolis comes in various forms and can therefore be used in different ways:

• as a hydroalcoholic extract or mother tincture (containing approximately 5 to 20% pure propolis extract), particularly for viral or bacterial infections affecting the ENT area, to boost immunity, for skin conditions, and also as a mouthwash;
• raw, as chewing gum, particularly to cleanse and soothe the respiratory tract, mouth, and throat, as well as to support the digestive system;
• in capsule form, particularly to support the immune system;
• as a syrup, specifically for the ENT area and sore throats; as lozenges; as an oral or nasal spray; as creams for skin conditions; etc.

In all cases, it is important to ensure the quality of the propolis used—it should be 100% natural, raw, and harvested in France if possible.

Where does propolis come from, and what exactly does it contain?

Propolis is collected by bees from the buds and young shoots of certain trees, such as poplar, birch, and chestnut. Once brought back to the hive, it is mixed with saliva and beeswax, creating a complex and unique substance. Used to seal gaps and sanitize the interior of the hive, propolis protects the colony against bacterial, viral, and fungal infections.

The composition of propolis varies depending on the plant sources and region of origin, but it generally contains:

• Plant resins and balms (50–60%): responsible for its antimicrobial properties;
• Beeswax (20–30%): provides a malleable texture and protective action;
• Essential oils (5–10%): with antiseptic and purifying properties;
• Flavonoids and polyphenols: powerful antioxidants;
• Phenolic acids and esters: contribute to antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects;
• Vitamins and trace minerals: enhance the benefits for the skin and the immune system.

What forms of propolis are available for purchase online?

Propolis is available in various forms, each suited to specific uses:

• Hydroalcoholic extract or mother tincture: Concentrated in active ingredients (5 to 20% pure propolis), it is ideal for ENT conditions, immune support, or as a mouthwash. Just a few drops are enough for effective use.
• Raw propolis or chewing gum: Chewed directly, it supports the respiratory, oral, and digestive systems while naturally purifying the body.
• Capsules: Easy to take, they strengthen the immune system, particularly during high-risk periods.
• Syrup and lozenges: These forms are particularly well-suited for soothing the throat and relieving respiratory issues.
• Oral and nasal sprays: Convenient for direct application, they are recommended for sore throats and nasal congestion.
• Creams and ointments: For skin conditions, they offer an effective topical solution for irritations, infections, and wounds.

How to Use Propolis to Relieve Your Ailments?

Thanks to its versatility, propolis can be used to treat a variety of ailments and boost overall health:

1. Respiratory conditions: Colds, flu, strep throat, sinusitis, bronchitis.
2. Oral and dental conditions: Canker sores, gingivitis, cavities, stomatitis.
3. Skin conditions: Wounds, burns, cold sores, eczema, psoriasis, acne.
4. Immune support: Ideal for preventing infections and supporting the body’s natural defenses.
5. Hair loss: Applied topically or taken as a dietary supplement.

What bee products can you find on the Soin-et-Nature website?

Soin-et-Nature offers a comprehensive selection of bee products to support your health and well-being through the benefits of bees. Here are the available categories:

• To enjoy natural, high-quality honey, organic honey offers a pure, nutrient-rich, and environmentally friendly product.
• To boost your energy and support your immune system, royal jelly is an exceptional natural supplement with numerous benefits.
• To benefit from its antiseptic and soothing properties, propolis is ideal for strengthening your body’s natural defenses and protecting your respiratory tract.
• For a guarantee of superior quality, organic royal jelly offers a certified product that respects bees and nature while preserving its full benefits.

These bee products available on Soin-et-Nature are designed to provide a natural and effective solution to boost your health and well-being every day.