In addition to producing honey, bees can also produce a product called propolis. Propolis has been used for a long time as a herbal medicine that is claimed to cure various diseases. That is why, propolis is widely consumed as a health supplement.
Propolis is made from plant sap used by bees to coveror fix the gapon the nest. Since thousands of years ago, propolis has been used to treat wounds, infections, and help the recovery process in times of illness. In addition, several other processed products from bees, such as beeswax and bee pollen It is also often used as traditional medicine.
Facts and Content of Propolis
Propolis generally contains substances and nutrients similar to honey, so it is good for health and beauty. The following are some of the substances and nutrients contained in propolis:
- Carbohydrate
- Fat
- Protein
- Magnesium
- Potassium
- Sodium
- Iron
- B vitamins
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
Propolis also contains other substances, such as antioxidant polyphenols and flavonoids, as well as essential oils.
However, the composition of propolis can vary depending on the location of the bees and the plants used for nesting. Propolis from Europe may contain nutrients and substances that are slightly different from propolis from Asia or America.
Benefits of Propolis Based on Medical Research
Propolis is usually contained in honey even though the levels are only small. In addition, propolis is also often found in the form of supplements, ointments or lotions, toothpaste, and mouthwash.
Several studies have shown that propolis has antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. This makes propolis claimed to have several health benefits, including:
1. Heals wounds on the skin
Propolis has been used since ancient times as a medicine to heal wounds on the skin, including minor burns.
A study also states that propolis can speed up the wound healing process. This is thanks to the content of substances in propolis which have antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.
2. Control blood sugar and cholesterol levels
One of the well-known benefits of propolis is reducing cholesterol and blood sugar. 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 disease, such as stroke and heart disease.
Unfortunately, these studies are still limited to small-scale studies. Until now, further research is needed to assess the effectiveness and safety of the benefits of this one propolis.
3. Overcoming gingivitis
Propolis has been used for a long time to clean teeth, gums, and mouth. Some research also shows that propolis in the form of a gel or mouthwash appears to be able to prevent and relieve gingivitis problems.
This is due to the content of substances that have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects in these herbal ingredients.
4. Relieve pain and swellingka n on 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 an ideal body weight.
Arthritis conditions are also believed to be overcome with the use of propolis. However, you should consult a doctor if you want to use propolis to treat this condition.
5. 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 body cells from free radical damage.
6. Strengthening 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.
However, there are no studies that can confirm that this herbal product is effective and safe to use as a treatment or prevention of infectious diseases.
Therefore, to keep the immune system strong, you need to do other ways, such as regular exercise, eating nutritious foods, getting enough rest, and reducing stress.
7. Menkeep 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.
In addition, propolis is also believed to relieve symptoms or reduce the risk of several diseases, such as thrush, tuberculosis, throat cancer, yeast infections in the mouth, diarrhea, intestinal worms, and vaginitis.
However, keep in mind, the effectiveness and safety of propolis to treat certain diseases is still uncertain and needs to be investigated further.
Things to Pay Attention to Before Using Propolis
There are several things that must be considered before consuming propolis, especially if you have the following conditions:
A high school
Some experts believe that some of the chemicals in propolis can make your asthma worse. In addition, if you have an allergy to bee products, you should avoid consuming propolis.
Bleeding disease or disorder
If you have a bleeding disease or disorder, you should avoid propolis. Compounds contained in propolis may interfere with the blood clotting process, so you can be at risk of bleeding.
You should also not take supplements or herbal products containing propolis for at least 2 weeks, if you are going to have surgery.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women
Until now, there has not been much research showing the effects and safety of propolis in pregnant and lactating women. Therefore, pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a doctor first before consuming propolis.
Propolis is generally safe if consumed according to the instructions for use listed on the product packaging. However, if you have certain medical conditions or diseases, you should first consult a doctor before consuming propolis.
In addition, when you want to buy or consume propolis, make sure that the product is registered with the BPOM so that its safety is guaranteed.