Propolis extract in alcohol - properties and applications

Nature works very wisely - a person could do without pharmacological drugs for a long time, maintaining and restoring his health exclusively with what Mother Earth gave him.

All kinds of herbs, roots and other natural substances dealt with the most severe viruses and bacteria, relieved fever, helped with fever and intestinal disorders.

One of these “storehouses of health” is propolis, a natural substance that is not only rich in vitamins and minerals to support life, but also has truly magical medicinal properties.

What is propolis

Propolis is a product produced by bees as a building material for hives. They get it by collecting pollen from flowers, buds, adding wax and other useful substances to it. Bees need propolis to seal cracks in their hives. This serves as protection against the penetration of pathogenic bacteria. If a foreign insect enters the hive, the bees smear it with propolis. Embalmed in this way, it can be stored there for a long time and not decompose.

In appearance, propolis is a sticky yellow-brown substance. But propolis comes in green, reddish, and gray colors. When it freezes, it hardens and turns to stone. It has a specific smell and taste. When stored for a long time, propolis turns black.

The taste and smell of propolis are similar to honey, because it also contains pollen and greens.

Video: How to prepare propolis tincture in water

The cooking sequence is as follows. 50 grams of propolis is crushed into powder and poured into a container, which will be filled with 500 ml of purified water, heated to 50 degrees. After a day, the solution is filtered and put away in a secluded place where the sun's rays do not penetrate. But please note that the prepared medicine can only be used for one week.

What are the beneficial properties

This useful product has not yet been fully studied, but it is known that it has the following properties:

• disinfectant;
• antibacterial;
• wound healing;
• immunomodulatory;
• anti-inflammatory;
• antioxidant.

Thanks to this, propolis can effectively relieve inflammation, deactivate harmful bacteria, heal wounds, relieve pain and even stop cancer processes.

Propolis: medicinal properties

The medicinal capabilities of bee glue have found their application not only in alternative medicine - this substance is recommended by many clinicians: gynecologists, otorhinolaryngologists, dermatologists, pediatricians, etc. Such versatility and popularity of this substance in medicine has a simple explanation: the health benefits of propolis are truly invaluable. This effect is achieved through a combination of the following properties:

• antitoxic,
• antibacterial,
• dermatoplastic,
• anti-inflammatory,
• wound healing,
• disinfectant,
• immunomodulatory,
• protective,
• antioxidant.

Propolis in its pure form or as aqueous tinctures has a tonic and general strengthening effect. It is able to relieve fatigue, stimulate energy production and seem to awaken a “second wind”. In addition, many studies confirm that regular use of bee glue in any available form significantly reduces the first signs of aging of the body, improves metabolism and keeps the body in good shape, despite the passport age. This effect is provided by numerous antioxidants that protect against harmful environmental influences, cleanse the body of toxins and waste, and awaken internal reserves. A rich vitamin cocktail complements the rejuvenating effect.

In addition, propolis significantly reduces the severity of stress, has a calming effect and suppresses anxiety levels. Thanks to this, a person can more easily endure stressful situations, cope with unexpected outbursts of emotions and control his impulses. And since most diseases are in one way or another associated with a weakened nervous system, this effect is truly valuable, especially for residents of modern cities, most of whose everyday life is spent under psychological stress.

Propolis, the use of which is especially important during the morbidity season, copes well with the destruction of pathogenic bacteria, among which are:

• influenza virus,
• herpes virus,
• tuberculosis bacillus,
• Candida,
• fungi and yeast,
• varicella zoster virus, etc.

At the same time, unlike pharmacological antibiotics, only pathogenic viruses and bacteria are affected by propolis - the microorganisms that form the normal human microflora are not threatened. This means that after treatment with bee glue, dysbiosis and other problems associated with microflora disturbances will not occur.

Despite the fact that the composition of propolis varies depending on the area, its antiviral and antibacterial properties remain at a consistently high level. This activity is achieved due to the high percentage of flavonoids, which are considered one of the best natural remedies for colds and flu. And although propolis is considered to be a medicine, there will be no harm if you use it for preventive purposes, especially during the peak of the disease - this way you can protect yourself from unpleasant symptoms and maintain health and vigor.

Who is not destined to be treated with bee glue? List of contraindications

When thinking about who and how to take propolis, it would be useful to familiarize yourself with the list of restrictions regarding this “home healer”. This substance has a natural formula, which means it has a safe and non-toxic composition, however, there are exceptions to any rule: do not discount the individual characteristics of each person.

In what cases will you have to give up propolis?

1. For allergic reactions to bee products, pine extracts, poplar fluff and pollen of flowering plants. In one concentration or another, all these substances can be part of bee glue, which means they can cause hypersensitivity in an allergic person.
2. In case of poor blood clotting, as well as before surgical interventions. Propolis can slow down the formation of platelets and, as a result, blood clotting. If the SC level is initially low, it is better not to take risks, especially on the eve of operations - it would be wise to abandon propolis, replacing it with other useful products of natural origin.
3. During lactation (if the baby is allergic). If a child is prone to allergic reactions from birth, bee glue will have to be abandoned during feeding so as not to provoke additional exacerbations in the baby.

That's probably all that needs to be taken into account before consuming this healing product. Evaluating propolis, the medicinal properties and contraindications of which cannot be compared, we can conclude that this remedy is a unique healer, in most cases bringing only one benefit to the body.

Composition of propolis

The product can be used both externally and internally to treat many diseases.

After all, its chemical composition is quite rich:

• magnesium;
• sodium;
• potassium;
• iron;
• zinc;
• cobalt;
• manganese;
• copper;
• phosphorus;
• aluminum;
• strontium;
• fluorine;
• tin;
• antimony.

These minerals are necessary for the proper functioning of many body systems (cardiovascular, endocrine, bone, nervous, urinary). But the highest content in it is calcium, which is simply necessary for the strength of bones, nails, hair, teeth, and for children - for proper growth and development.

In addition, the product contains many vitamins (A, B, C, P, D, E). It also contains glycine, aspargine and many other amino acids.

How do bees make propolis?

The production of this healing product by bees is carried out from resinous substances that are strictly plant in nature. They are collected from buds, branches, and leaves of trees. Bees mainly use chestnut, willow, aspen, poplar, birch, and herbaceous plants. All plants from which these resinous elements are extracted have pronounced bactericidal properties.

The bulk of the final product is formed from flower pollen shells. It is impregnated with a resinous substance - a natural balm. It is a solution consisting of resin and essential oil. The substance protects the contents of pollen cells from the effects of unfavorable external factors, including excess moisture, sunlight, high and low temperatures.

We looked at where propolis comes from. All that remains is to familiarize yourself with the nuances of collecting this product. Traditionally it occurs in the last weeks of summer or the first days of autumn. There is also a limitation on the time of day: most often, propolis collection occurs at 10-15 hours of the day, since at other times the surfaces for collecting resins become too hard and unsuitable for the process. It is extremely rare to collect propolis in the spring.

The tendency to collect this substance depends on the breed of bees. A large amount of the product is collected by insects in the Caucasus, in central Russia. Much less propolis is observed in bees in Ukraine and Italy. Indian “honey miners” do not collect propolis at all. According to statistics, one family of bees is capable of collecting about 100-150 g of “bee glue” per year.

Insects grab resins with their jaws and pull them into threads until they break. Then they remove lumps of resin from the jaws and place them in special baskets with pollen. In this process, the insect mixes resins with the secretion of its maxillary glands, which gives the product unique healing and cosmetic properties and makes it indispensable throughout the world.

What is "bee poop" called? People usually call them propolis due to their characteristic appearance. However, this product has nothing to do with bee excrement. Propolis is collected using a special grid. Each hive yields from 50 to 150 g per season. Some leave it in its original form, while other beekeepers process it in a water bath while preserving its basic healing properties.

What does propolis help with?

This product can help with a variety of diseases.

It is used for:

• stomach and duodenal ulcers;
• uterine fibroids;
• fungal infections of nails;
• bacteria Helicobacter pylori;
• disorders of the pancreas;
• sinusitis, colds;
• hemorrhoids;
• prostate diseases;
• inflammation of the intestines;
• liver diseases.

For stomach ulcers, you need to chew propolis and swallow. This relieves pain and inflammation. It is used along with other drugs for this disease.

For uterine fibroids, suppositories with propolis and tampons are made, which are inserted deep into the vagina.

For Helicobacter pylori, propolis tincture is taken orally. Ointments and suppositories with propolis help with hemorrhoids.

Propolis with alcohol - treatment for various diseases

Propolis for inhalation

Treatment with propolis inhalations is recommended for runny nose, sinusitis, sore throat, colds, etc. To carry out the procedure, pour a teaspoon of highly concentrated propolis tincture into a liter of boiling water. Remove the container from the heat, let the liquid cool slightly, then cover with a towel and exhale the vapors for about ten minutes. It is recommended to carry out such procedures twice a day.

How to drink propolis with alcohol for immunity

Propolis tincture can be used not only in cases of reduced immunity, but also simply to maintain the body’s defenses, when the risk of getting a cold or flu is especially high. For this purpose, it is recommended to use the product before bedtime, adding fifteen drops to milk, adults - fifteen drops, children - five. Propolis can also be added to ordinary water. The duration of the course should be from five to ten days, but it is recommended to conduct it monthly. By the way, this remedy will not only strengthen the immune system, but also help calm the nervous system and normalize sleep.

Propolis extract 30% in our store

How to be treated with propolis

There are many recipes for preparing propolis tinctures and ointments. But before you use any prescription, you should consult your doctor.

Before you start preparing the tincture, you need to clear it of impurities. It will take longer, but pure propolis is much more beneficial.

A stomach ulcer occurs when an aggressive environment destroys the stomach lining. Propolis kills Helicobacter pylori, which causes ulcers. At the same time, it regenerates the gastric mucosa.

• There is a recipe for ulcers: dilute sixty drops of 30% propolis tincture in a glass of milk. Use the product half an hour before meals three times a day. As a result of treatment, the ulcer scars, nausea and vomiting disappear.
• For gastritis, you can take the tincture twenty to forty drops three times a day. You can make your own propolis oil. To do this, take propolis tincture and add vegetable oil in a ratio of 1:10. The resulting product must be boiled and strained through cheesecloth. Take thirty drops in milk three times a day.

• You can make decoctions of propolis with herbs (fennel, licorice, mint, linden). Take half a glass three times a day.
• For uterine fibroids, you should take ten drops of propolis tincture orally three times a day. At the same time, tampons are placed in the vagina.

• For pancreatitis, half a teaspoon of tincture is diluted in half a glass of water. Take trijls before meals.
• Propolis suppositories help with hemorrhoids. You can prepare them yourself.
• For liver diseases, drop twenty drops of tincture into a glass of water and take three times a day for a week. Chaga with propolis helps well with jaundice.
• Compresses with propolis help with colds. You need to moisten the cloth with propolis and apply it to your back. The procedure lasts forty minutes.

You can gargle with propolis tincture diluted in warm water.

It is useful to mix propolis with honey. This mixture strengthens the immune system and helps get rid of infections.

Propolis: application

Knowing the beneficial properties of bee glue, it is easy to assume that its use is recommended for many diseases. Indeed, in addition to the expected colds, the use of propolis is indicated in the presence of the following diagnoses:

1. Arterial hypertension. The extracts included in this beekeeping product suppress the production of a special enzyme and thereby reduce blood pressure.
2. Stomach ulcer. Since propolis has a wound-healing and anti-inflammatory effect, when it enters the stomach, it soothes the mucous membrane, relieves unpleasant symptoms and promotes rapid healing of the ulcer.
3. Diseases of the musculoskeletal system. Caffeic acid, which is contained in excess in bee glue, inhibits the process of destruction of bone tissue, restores its density and increases resistance to external influences.
4. Allergic reactions. The substances contained in the bee “medicine” act as antihistamines, suppressing allergy symptoms.
5. Food poisoning. Propolis is able to quickly and delicately cleanse the body of toxins that cause poisoning, relieve symptoms of intoxication and restore normal microflora.
6. Skin defects: ulcers, warts, burns, fungus, etc. Bee glue cleanses the skin, restores its integrity and promotes rapid healing of even the most serious damage.
7. Gynecological abnormalities: thrush, vaginal herpes, endometriosis, etc. Propolis in ointments or suppositories is an effective remedy against “female” diseases of an infectious and inflammatory nature. Moreover, the substance is safe even during pregnancy (in the absence of contraindications).

This list is not complete, since propolis will be useful to one degree or another for almost all diseases. It is prescribed as an adjuvant therapy for diabetes, hepatitis and even oncology.

How to take propolis?

You can use propolis in any way you like - make water and oil tinctures, ointments, creams, and even chew it in its pure form like chewing gum. However, the most convenient form for patients of all ages is still considered a water tincture. To prepare it, just chop a small amount of bee product with a knife and boil it in a water bath for 10 minutes, after adding ½ cup of boiled water.

Propolis oil is no more difficult to prepare. Having crushed 50 g of propolis in the same way, mix it with 300 g of melted butter and, slightly heating it in a water bath, stir the product until the wax settles at the bottom. This way, the healing components will get into the oil, and the wax will not interfere with application to the skin. This composition can be used as an ointment for skin diseases, cracks, ulcers and eczema, taken orally for stomach problems and rubbed into painful areas.

Let's summarize: the benefits of propolis for the body

Propolis is a substance unique in its composition and healing effect, which simply has no equal in nature. Using it as a medicine or preventive measure, you can maintain and increase your health, put off old age, remain strong, calm and balanced in any stressful situation, be full of energy and strength even after a tiring day at work and never experience depression. Not a single pill in the world can replace this source of longevity and prosperity, gifted by bees. Therefore, you should not run to the pharmacy at the first signs of illness - everything that is necessary for recovery has already been given by nature, all that remains is to use this gift correctly.

Value and composition of propolis tincture

Bee propolis contains a huge amount of useful substances. All of them dissolve perfectly in an alcohol base, turning the tincture into a valuable medicine.

It contains:

• B vitamins;
• flavonoids and antioxidants;
• steroids;
• provitamin A;
• iron, phosphorus and calcium;
• manganese and silicon;
• amino acids and protein compounds;
• aldehydes and polyphenols;
• organic acids;
• copper, sodium and potassium;
• essential oils;
• wax;
• tannins.

Thanks to this composition, the tincture acts as a valuable antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent.

Origin of propolis

Some researchers believe that propolis is of pollen origin, others - that bees collect it from the buds of poplar, birch, alder, bird cherry, aspen and other plants. It is believed that propolis is of internal origin (regurgitation of resinous substances and plant pollen modified by bee enzymes). In appearance, propolis resembles beeswax, but it is darker (it can be greenish-yellow, dark brownish or even black).

History of the use of propolis

The first mentions of the use of propolis are known in Ancient Egypt; later they learned to use propolis in Ancient Greece. There are references to this substance in the works of the famous doctors of antiquity Dioscorides (1st century AD) and Galen (130–201); Roman encyclopedists Varro and Pliny the Elder also wrote about the use of propolis. Propolis has long been used to treat colds, purulent wounds and some diseases of the joints and muscles.

In Rus', propolis was called bee glue, bond, tar. It was used in the treatment of eczema, wounds, fungal and other diseases, about which much has been written in ancient medical books.

Method for determining naturalness

To determine the quality of propolis, there are a number of specific indicators:

• color – yellowish, brownish or dark green;
• smell – aromatic, rich;
• taste – bitterish, slightly burning;
• consistency – when cold, hard, heterogeneous.

High-quality propolis contains up to 30% wax and up to 20% impurities. It is prepared in the summer, collected from the hives and rolled into small balls of 100 grams. The alcohol solution of propolis is transparent, has a pleasant aroma and brown color.

What does propolis tincture treat?

The use of the drug in home medicine is very extensive; external and internal ailments are treated with the help of infusion. In particular, the product is used:

• for digestive ailments - ulcers, gastritis and heartburn;
• for diabetes mellitus;
• for diseases of the respiratory system, the tincture is good for bronchitis, tracheitis and pneumonia;
• for colds and flu, sore throat and tonsillitis;
• for chronic runny nose and sinusitis;
• for inflammatory eye diseases;
• for stomatitis and periodontal disease;
• for gynecological inflammations in men and women;
• for cystitis and thrush in women;
• for fungal diseases - seborrhea, psoriasis;
• for furunculosis and acne;
• for nervous disorders.

Propolis tincture helps against anemia and serves as a good preventive measure. Since the composition contains a huge amount of useful substances, the drug quickly replenishes the deficiency of vitamins and minerals.

Restrictions and contraindications for taking propolis tincture

A useful alcohol tincture has its own contraindications - not everyone can use it. It is necessary to stop using the medicine:

• for chronic liver and kidney diseases;
• for asthma during exacerbation;
• for allergic rhinitis;
• if you are allergic to bee products;
• during pregnancy and lactation.

For the first time, it is recommended to use the tincture in very small quantities - you need to check the body's reaction. If, after using the drug, redness on the skin, rash, itching and swelling appear, then you will have to abandon the medicinal product.

Features of using propolis tincture

When using medicinal tincture, it is important to follow several basic rules:

1. Take the drug strictly in the quantities specified in the prescriptions - since it contains medical alcohol, an overdose can cause severe harm.
2. Propolis tincture cannot be treated for too long a time in a row - usually the drug is taken in courses of 10-14 days, and then take a break for 2-3 weeks.

For internal use, the tincture must be diluted with water, the same applies to inhalation, rinsing and instillation. Propolis with alcohol in undiluted form can burn the mucous membranes because it has a very strong concentration.

Is it possible to use propolis while breastfeeding and during pregnancy?

Despite its numerous beneficial properties, the propolis-based drug is prohibited for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The product is made on the basis of alcohol, and any alcoholic products are contraindicated for pregnant women and nursing mothers, even in minimal dosages.

At the same time, with the permission of a doctor, propolis tincture can be used externally to treat skin diseases and injuries. The volumes of funds should still remain small.

Is it possible to take propolis tincture for children?

Children's use of the drug depends on the age of the baby. It is strictly prohibited to offer an alcohol-based drug to children under 3 years of age; propolis in this form will only cause harm.

After reaching 3 years of age, in extreme situations, you can use the tincture, but take very small amounts, literally 2-3 drops, and dilute the product in a large amount of water.

Attention! Before giving a child a diluted propolis tincture, you must consult a pediatrician - the product has many contraindications.

general characteristics

Propolis is a resinous substance that bees collect from buds on trees and bushes in the spring and then process with their enzymes. After collecting nectar and pollen for honey from forbs (approximately in October), the bees begin intensive preparation for the winter period. To do this, worker bees begin to collect a resinous substance from the buds and bark of trees.

There is still no consensus on the origin of propolis. Researchers of the theory of the external origin of the substance are of the opinion that bees extract it from the secretions of the resinous mass of the buds and bark of birch and poplar trees. According to this theory, the process of collecting propolis occurs as follows: bees take resins, as when collecting pollen, and fly to the hive to give the substance to other bees for processing. The balm obtained after processing in the hive is an integral part of bee glue. Researchers of another theory believe that there are special propolis bees that process pollen. As a result of such processing with the addition of third-party impurities, propolis is obtained as the result of a whole complex of substances.

Bee glue performs the following tasks in the hive:

• clogs the honeycombs with a bar;
• sterilizes cells;
• embalms potentially dangerous foreign objects in cells;
• seals cracks from moisture and drafts;
• polishes honeycombs before laying eggs;
• serves as an antiseptic material.

Propolis has a pleasant aroma of pine needles, honey, buds, wax and vanilla. It varies in color from grayish green to dark brown. Propolis tastes bitter. During combustion, the ouse releases valuable aromatic resins. Each bee colony collects about 40-50 grams of bee glue. It is worth noting that the famous mumiyo is a product of wild bees living in mountainous areas. This mummy has more pronounced medicinal properties, which has a natural pattern: products of wild origin are more useful than homemade ones.

Thanks to bee glue, the bees themselves protect themselves from all kinds of bacteria and viruses. To date, there are six known natural antibiotics produced by bees:

• honey;
• royal jelly;
• beebread;
• bee venom;
• wax;
• propolis.

When bees are overcrowded, these natural bee antibiotics are necessary for their normal functioning.

Healing properties of propolis

Chewing gum, lozenges and tablets with propolis are effective in treating inflammatory diseases of the mouth and throat, and also improve immunity, regulate lipids and blood sugar.

Although fresh propolis is considered the most valuable, if stored properly it does not lose its healing properties for a long time. It must be stored in a dry, dark place at a temperature no higher than 25 C. Do not keep odorous substances nearby!

Propolis is used in its pure form and in combination with other substances that enhance its healing properties.

Propolis is a “joint” product of the plant and animal world. The main time for collecting nectar for flower honey ends in October, and the bees begin preparing for winter. Special worker bees collect a resinous, sticky substance from the buds and bark of trees (poplars, willows, birches, chestnut fir and spruce trees, fruit trees and some herbs).

Translated from Greek, the word “propolis” means “before the city.” Bees use propolis to protect and strengthen their hives. Hardworking insects cover all cracks and cracks smaller than 4.5 mm with propolis; They first cover larger holes with wax.