Propolis is made from resin that seeps out of a tree’s bark or buds. The bees gather this up and mix it with beeswax. The propolis is then used to line the hive to create sterile cells for the upcoming brood (baby bees). It is also used to seal the hive off, protecting it from outside threats. Additionally, any insects attempting to enter the hive are embalmed with this sticky substance to keep the dead body from decomposing and contaminating the hive.

This substance has been around since antiquity, dating back as far as 350 B.C and has recently been rediscovered for its healing and medicinal properties. Ancient Egyptians used propolis in their mummification rituals (just as bees use it to mummify hive intruders and protect the hive from bacteria when the intruder decomposes).

Not only does it help prevent infectious diseases; it clears them from the body as well

This natural antibiotic is the most scientifically studied of all the beehive products and is becoming increasingly important for compromised immune systems, especially where there is resistance to man-made antibiotics.

Taking propolis daily helps strengthen the immune system against bacteria, fungi, and viruses, including the flu. It is often called “nature’s penicillin” and unlike medicine, which attacks both healthful and harmful bacteria, propolis only goes after bad bacteria.  The additional benefits of taking propolis are that it is not affected by the various mutations of bacteria, as it works against all strains in general. Propolis is natures antiseptic marvel.

With over 200 active phytochemicals, propolis is a complex, highly active, antibiotic, antiviral, antifungal, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory agent.

Studies are now showing that bee propolis has strong anti-influenza activity, so would be an ideal addition to the home medicine cabinet for any future outbreaks.   Take a low dose daily during the cold and flu season to boost immunity and prevent a nasty virus from taking hold.

Propolis works with your body’s natural immune defences helping you resist these microbial invaders. A healthier more rigorous immune system also means your chances of catching a cold or flu are less likely. And, if you do get sick, your body is in a better position to fight the offending agents, resulting in a shorter duration of the illness, along with milder symptoms. All this because your immune system is now doing its job correctly!

Several symptoms have been found to be relieved with the use of propolis, including fever, headaches, body aches, coughing, and sneezing, demonstrating surprising effectiveness at this.

Propolis is often taken at the onset of winter, or when there is prior knowledge of a forthcoming hospital stay or travel by air. With ever more research into the benefits of Propolis being published, many are including this in their daily regime to maintain good health.

Propolis is yet another example of the amazing health and healing potential that nature makes available to us.

It brings potent preventive actions to the cold & flu battle – which after all, is the best kind of medicine. Propolis offers powerful and effective immune support while targeting bacterial and viral invaders in various ways.

All this adds up to a powerful healing ally that can help us through the cold & flu season. Keep in mind, that there is no better time than the present to get started on an immune and health-supporting program utilising effective and versatile propolis benefits.