Propolis – a miracle of nature

The beehive is warm, moist and densely populated. Nevertheless, the inside of a beehive is free of bacteria, viruses and fungi. What's the secret? The answer is: propolis. We explain what it is and how it can benefit you too.

Propolis in a measuring spoon

What is propolis?

Propolis is a resinous mass that protects the hive from fungal infestation, bacteria and intruders of all kinds. Propolis is created when bees process regional plant resins, essential oils and the body's own enzymes. This ensures that propolis has a highly complex composition. Multiple studies have identified more than 300 chemical components in the substance. For example, propolis also contains flavonoids, which have an antioxidant effect. The composition of propolis depends on the flora of the respective regions in which the bees are located. Due to its revitalizing, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, propolis is also known as the strongest natural antibiotic and strengthens the human immune system when taken.

Did you know?

Many people don't immediately think of bee products when they think of propolis. Propolis has been around since there was honey - from ancient times. The panacea was already known and highly respected for its effectiveness by the Romans, Greeks, Persians and Egyptians. It was used to treat skin wounds, laryngitis and even dental problems. Roman soldiers even used propolis as emergency medicine during war, and in ancient Egypt it was even used to mummify pharaohs due to its antibacterial properties. The name comes from ancient Greece: “Propolis” comes from Greek and means “in front of the city”.

How do you use propolis?

Nowadays propolis is available to buy in a wide variety of dosage forms. The method of use depends on the form:

Tinctures, mother tinctures & drops

Tinctures, mother tinctures and solutions basically all involve propolis extract, which is dissolved in various concentrations and available in liquid form. However, many manufacturers call their product a tincture if the extract has been dissolved in alcohol. When used externally, the alcohol also has a disinfecting effect.

Areas of application and ways of use: Tinctures and solutions can be used for better wound healing or, for example, against skin blemishes by applying the product directly to the affected area. For inflammation of the throat or dental problems, the product can be mixed with water and used as a mouthwash. Finally, taking it directly with a meal or liquid is suitable for combating oxidative stress and also for generally strengthening the body. Taking it directly can also relieve the symptoms of hay fever.

You can get Röösli propolis tinctures in your local pharmacy and drugstore or in the Röösli online shop .

Ointments, creams & balms

Due to its anti-inflammatory and vitalizing effects, propolis can be used in the form of an ointment, cream or balm for external use. Depending on the manufacturer, they are combined with other beneficial ingredients.

Areas of application and ways of use: Ointments, creams and balms are well suited for daily skin care. Irritated, dry and impure skin in particular benefits from the revitalizing power of propolis. Care products with propolis promise a skin-refining, healing and calming effect on the skin.

You can get Röösli care products with propolis in your local pharmacy and drugstore or in the Röösli online shop .

Capsules, throat lozenges & powder

In addition to solutions and tinctures, propolis for direct consumption is also available in solid form. There are a variety of products on the market for a wide variety of complaints and applications.

Areas of application and ways of use: Powder and capsules with propolis powder can be taken with a meal to strengthen the natural defenses. One to two teaspoons of the powder can be mixed into a drink or added to muesli in the morning. Another option is to mix the powder with a skin cream for external use. If you don't like the taste of the powder when taking it, you can use capsules. Throat lozenges are mostly used as a natural alternative to normal throat lozenges for sore throats and scratchy throats.

If you want to find out more about propolis, you can find out more about it in our FAQ .

2 comments

  • Lieber Thomas
    Herzlichen Dank für deine Frage.
    Eine kleine Minderheit kann auf Propolis allergisch reagieren. Alle Informationen dazu & Tipps zum Allergietest findest du in unserem Blogbeitrag “Fragen und Antworten rund um Propolis” (über Suchfunktion zu finden).
    Lieber Gruss
    Robin

    Robin Röösli
  • Kann ich auf Propolis allergisch reagieren?

    Thomas

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