Bee Propolis

Why You Need It

• Natural Antibiotic: Helps fight off bacteria and viruses without the side effects of synthetic drugs.
• Immune Booster: Stimulates the production of antibodies to keep your defenses high.
• Wound Healer: Speeds up tissue repair and reduces inflammation.
• Antioxidant Powerhouse: Protects your cells from damage caused by free radicals.

Deep Dive

Propolis is complex. Bees harvest it from specific trees (like poplar or birch), which means the exact chemical makeup varies by location. However, the active compounds—flavonoids and caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE)—are the heavy lifters. They work synergistically to disrupt the cell walls of harmful bacteria, effectively stopping infections in their tracks. Studies suggest it can be as effective as some pharmaceutical mouthwashes for oral health and significantly reduces the duration of the common cold when taken at the first sign of symptoms.

Natural Food Sources

Unlike vitamins found in specific vegetables, Propolis is a bee-made product. To get the benefits, you must consume the raw resin or, more commonly, a standardized supplement. However, eating a plant-rich diet supports the bees' production of high-quality propolis by providing them with diverse phytochemicals.

Supplementation

Dosage: There is no strict RDA, but clinical studies often use 500mg to 1,000mg daily of standardized extract. Usage: Best taken during cold/flu season or when feeling run down. Available as tinctures (liquid), capsules, or throat sprays. Always start with a small dose to test for bee product allergies.