Propolis: The Bee's Cure For Coughs And Colds

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<p>As the winter chill approaches, and the cold season descends, many of us find ourselves battling persistent coughs, sore throats, and runny noses. While over-the-counter medications can provide relief, they often come with a host of side effects.</p><p>Enter propolis — a natural remedy that has been treasured for centuries. Most of us know bees for their honey, but there’s another gift from the hive that’s been quietly used for centuries —propolis.</p><p>Harvested by bees from tree resin, propolis is a powerful substance packed with antimicrobial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. Known as ‘bee glue’, people across Southeast Asia and East Africa have long used propolis for its health benefits, especially when it comes to fighting off coughs, colds, and minor infections.</p><p>In parts of Indonesia, propolis drops are added to warm drinks during flu season, while in Kenya and Ethiopia, bee farmers have passed down the benefits of propolis as part of natural, everyday wellness. Packed with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, propolis offers gentle yet effective support for soothing sore throats, calming coughs, and boosting overall immunity.</p><p>In this blog, we will explore how propolis can help soothe your symptoms, bolster your immune system, and provide you with a holistic approach to wellness. Discover the science behind this remarkable bee product and learn how to use it effectively.</p><h2 id="What">What is propolis?</h2><p>Did you know that propolis is sometimes called ‘bee glue’? This remarkable, sticky substance is crafted by honeybees, who gather resins and other natural materials from plants, buds, and tree sap. For thousands of years, propolis has been celebrated in traditional medicine across the globe for its wide-ranging health benefits.</p><p>The word "propolis" originates from Greek, with “pro” meaning “at the entrance” and “polis” meaning “community” or “city,” a nod to its vital role in fortifying the hive and protecting the bee community.</p><h3>Composition</h3><p>Just like medicinal plants, the health benefits of propolis stem from its rich chemical makeup. Typically, raw propolis consists of approximately 50% resins, 30% waxes, 10% essential oils, 5% pollen, and 5% other organic compounds.</p><p>Research has identified over 300 chemical components in propolis from various sources, each contributing to its unique pharmacological effects. This intricate mix gives propolis its powerful, natural properties that have been valued for centuries.</p><h2 id="History">History and origin</h2><p>The use of propolis dates back to 300 BC, showcasing its long-standing significance in traditional medicine. By the 17th century, propolis was officially recognized as a drug in the London pharmacopeias. Its popularity surged in Europe from the 17th to the 20th centuries, thanks to its powerful antibacterial properties.</p><p>In Italy, the famous violin maker Stradivari even used propolis as a varnish for his instruments. By the late 19th century, its healing properties were well-recognized, and it saw widespread use during World War II. Notably, Soviet clinics used propolis to treat patients with tuberculosis, noting significant improvements in lung health and appetite recovery.</p><p>The first scientific study of propolis was published in 1908, detailing its chemical properties and composition. It gained further recognition when indexed in chemical abstracts.</p><h2 id="Benefits">Benefits in cough and cold areas</h2><p>Propolis has shown great potential for supporting respiratory health, helping with conditions like rhinopharyngitis, pharyngitis, and other Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) issues. It may also ease Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URTIs).</p><p style="text-align:center;"><img src="https://media.megawecare.com/GHBY/Internal-Images/propolis-benefits-for-coughs.webp" width="876" height="500" alt="Benefits in cough and cold areas"></p><p>Propolis has shown effectiveness against a range of respiratory viruses, including influenza and parainfluenza strains, rhinoviruses, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Studies have found that concentrations from 5-300 µg/mL (depending on the source and extract type) can be effective.</p><p>Propolis-based products like sprays, ointments, and powders (typically tinctures or ethanolic extracts) are often used to support respiratory health, helping to manage colds, flu, and bronchial asthma.</p><p>Here are some research-backed facts highlighting the benefits of propolis for coughs and colds:</p><ul><li>A blend of propolis and Hyoscyamus niger L. extract has shown potential for relieving symptoms of COVID-19, reducing headache, dizziness, cough, shortness of breath, fever, and fatigue.</li><li>Inhaling propolis extract, especially by adding drops to water, can soothe the respiratory tract and may aid with asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, and allergies.</li><li>Propolis, licorice, and honey are key ingredients in Bronxbal paste, which helps support treatment with bronchial dilation, immune support, mucolysis, and antiviral and antibacterial effects, especially during coronavirus and bacterial viral pneumonia.</li><li>A 10-day treatment combining propolis with standard therapy for acute respiratory infection has shown positive effects by improving the overall condition, promoting the coughing up of thick mucus, and reducing cough frequency.</li></ul><p><strong>Benefits of propolis for kids</strong></p><p style="text-align:center;"><img src="https://media.megawecare.com/GHBY/Internal-Images/propolis-for-kids.webp" width="876" height="500" alt="Benefits of propolis for kids"></p><p>For children, a specific propolis-based nasal spray (‘Child Free Nose Propolis’) has been found to significantly reduce the duration of symptoms related to acute rhinitis and the common cold.</p><ul><li>Studies suggest that a mix of echinacea, propolis, and vitamin C, when taken daily for 12 weeks during winter, can significantly lower the risk of respiratory infections in children.</li><li>Using honey, royal jelly, and propolis individually for symptomatic treatment of URTIs has effectively reduced cough and other symptoms, with improvements noted in a shorter period of around 10 days.</li><li>An herbal preparation with vitamin C, propolis, and echinacea reduces the incidence of rhinitis by 22%, daytime cough by 30%, and nighttime cough by 36%, while lowering the incidence and severity of respiratory infections in young children.</li></ul><h2 id="Health">Health benefits of propolis</h2><p>Let us look at some of the benefits of propolis:</p><p>Propolis offers a variety of health benefits, including antiallergic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, cardioprotective, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, antiulcer, antitumor, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, and antidiabetic properties.</p><p>The most common uses of propolis (such as boosting the immune system and preventing colds) are due to its antibacterial and antiviral effects. It also helps treat small mouth ulcers and canker sores, relieves redness and itching in the urinary tract, and supports the balance of the gastric mucosa.</p><p>Currently, propolis is widely used in treating symptoms of cold (like upper respiratory infections and flu), herpes simplex, genital herpes, and neurodermatitis.</p><p>Propolis for skin: Did you know that propolis is a natural remedy for soothing and healing the skin? It has been used for skin regeneration, wound healing, treating burns, and acne, and even as a local anesthetic. Because of these benefits, it is a common ingredient in many households’ first-aid kits.</p><h3>Uses of propolis</h3><p>Propolis is widely available in various forms, including capsules, mouthwashes, creams, throat lozenges, and powders. Today, propolis is a popular natural remedy found in health food stores, used topically in many products. It has also gained popularity in food and beverages as a health booster and illness preventative.</p><p>Included in mouthwashes and toothpastes, it helps prevent cavities, treats gingivitis, and soothes stomatitis. Its uses extend to cosmetics, health foods, and drinks, making it a versatile addition to daily wellness routines.</p><h2 id="Conclusion">Conclusion</h2><p>Propolis is a remarkable natural remedy, valued for centuries. With antimicrobial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties, it is especially helpful in supporting respiratory health, soothing coughs, and strengthening the immune system. Propolis can also aid skin health, promote wound healing, and provide relief from various ailments.</p><p>As colder months approach, adding propolis to your routine can support your health naturally. With its long history of use and research-backed benefits, propolis is a valuable addition to both preventive health and symptom relief.</p><p>Whether in supplements, sprays, or other forms, propolis offers a gentle and holistic way to boost wellness. Embrace this powerful bee product to support your health and well-being.</p>

<ul><li><a href="#What">What is propolis?</a></li><li><a href="#History">History and origin</a></li><li><a href="#Benefits">Benefits in cough and cold areas</a></li><li><a href="#Health">Health benefits of propolis</a></li><li><a href="#Conclusion">Conclusion</a></li></ul>

Propolis: The Bee's Cure For Coughs And Colds

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Propolis: The Bee's Cure For Coughs And Colds

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What is propolis and how does it help with colds?

How do people traditionally use propolis for coughs and sore throats?

Is propolis safe for daily use?

Can children use propolis for colds?

Are there local variations of propolis remedies in Southeast Asia and East Africa?

Does propolis help with immunity?