Propolis is a by-product in the form of sap produced by honey bees. When bees mix tree sap with natural substances from the body, the bees will produce a greenish-brown sticky substance to coat their hives. Well, this greenish-brown sticky substance is called propolis.
Honey bees will collect sap from various plants to fill in the gaps and holes in their hives. This is done to protect the nest from microbes and predatory animals.
Propolis is one of the herbal medicines that has been known for thousands of years and is believed to be good for the health of the body. Humans in ancient civilizations have used this herbal medicine to help heal and prevent various kinds of health disorders and certain diseases.
Some people believe that regular consumption of propolis can help increase your immune system, so your risk of getting an infection or disease is lower. Some infections that are believed to be treated with propolis honey include canker sores, warts, and digestive disorders such as H. pylori infection which causes stomach ulcers.
Benefits of Propolis :
- Heals wounds on the skin
A study also mentions that propolis can speed up the wound healing process. Because propolis has antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. - Control blood sugar and cholesterol levels
Some research shows that propolis can keep blood sugar levels stable and prevent insulin resistance which can cause type 2 diabetes.
In addition, propolis is also useful for reducing bad cholesterol (LDL) and increasing good cholesterol (HDL). This effect makes propolis good for consumption to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as stroke and heart disease. - Relieve pain and swelling in the joints
Pain and swelling in the joints are often caused by inflammation, for example in osteoarthritis. This disease can be treated with medication, adequate rest time, and maintaining ideal body weight. - Inhibit the growth of cancer cells
Propolis has antioxidant compounds that can inhibit the growth of cancer cells. These antioxidant compounds also play an important role in protecting the body’s cells from free radical damage. - Strengthens the immune system
Having a strong immune system is very important so that the body is not susceptible to disease. Some research shows that propolis can keep the immune system strong, so the body is not susceptible to infection.
To keep your immune system strong, you need to do other ways, such as regular exercise, eating nutritious foods, getting enough rest, and reducing stress. - Maintain brain function and health
Propolis is also beneficial for brain health and function. Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant substances in propolis are known to support the process of repairing nerve and brain tissue and improve memory.
Some research even shows that consuming propolis appears to reduce the risk of developing dementia or dementia.
