What is Propolis?

Probably, an ingredient you have never heard of before however this new ingredient has been around for millions of years and has been used by mankind for thousands of years. 

Propolis is a sticky resin which seeps from the buds of certain trees – the bees prefer Poplar – and oozes from the bark of other trees, mostly Conifers. Bees gather propolis and carry it back to the hive in their pollen baskets. Although propolis is vitally important to the bee family, only a few bees are specialists in gathering “bee glue” (as it’s often referred to).  At the hive, worker bees mix the resin with wax and create a new material for a number for protective purposes in their hive. 

Propolis protects the hive in two way; firstly it is a sealant, coating and reinforcing the inside of the beehive; secondly, it protects the bees from bacterial and viral infections. 

It is the latter properties which humans have found Propolis so helpful through the centuries – to the present day. 

Here are 3 reasons you’ll want to start adding propolis products into your daily skin routine;

Antimicrobial Superpowers

Propolis is a significant antimicrobial bee product. It acts both against Gram-positive and Gram-negative, as well as aerobic and anaerobic bacteria. The activity of propolis depends on chemical composition and is different in individual countries. 

Antimicrobial ingredients are ideal in facial cleansers, to effectively help the removal of bacteria on the skin and reduce skin problems. 

Oil Balancing/Acne Skin

For those of us with overactive sebaceous glands (oily skin), it can help even out your skin tone without breaking out. In fact, it’s often used for people who suffer from acne (the anti-bacterial properties are fantastic for calming acne too).

Oral Health

Our mouth environment is rich in bacterial flora and unhealthy conditions can lead to many ongoing health problems. 

Thanks to the richness of natural components in it, Propolis has antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and many other applications. Although it offers many benefits for dentistry, one should remember that its use may bring in the risk of an allergy. 

What do we use propolis in?

We have recently launched our Propolis Throat Spray – formulated to help support your oral health and could aid symptoms such as a dry raspy throat. Ideal for when you’ve nearly lost your voice!

And our Manuka Honey & Propolis Cleanser is a golden cream formula, with a high percentage of New Zealand bio-active propolis to help assist in the removal of bacterial which can cause many skin problems.