Food
Propolis
This sticky, golden-brown resin is the bees' own handiwork, made to protect and seal their hive home.
🌱 What it is
Propolis is a resin that bees create by mixing tree and plant sap with their own beeswax and enzymes, using it to seal cracks and protect the hive. People collect small amounts for use in sprays, tinctures, and salves.
✨ How it may help
- May help soothe an irritated or scratchy throat
- May help support the skin around minor scrapes or cold sores
- May help offer natural antimicrobial support
- May help support the body's normal defenses
🥄 How to use it
Try a propolis throat spray or lozenge for a scratchy throat, or dab a little diluted propolis tincture on a cold sore or minor wound, following the product's directions.
🥗 Nutrition
Per 1 spray or lozenge (as directed) · about 5 calories
- Trace flavonoids
- Trace plant resins
- Negligible protein
- Negligible carbohydrate
Source: USDA FoodData Central
⚖️ Caution
Those allergic to bees, bee products, or pollen may react to propolis — test a small amount first and stop for any swelling, rash, or irritation.
🍃 A note from nature
It's a small wonder that bees, in guarding their own home, make something people have leaned on for comfort for thousands of years.