Bee Propolis Information

Bee Propolis
All About Propolis
What does propolis do?

Propolis is a sticky resin that seeps from the buds of some trees and oozes from the bark of other trees, chiefly conifers. Bees gather the components of propolis and carry it home in their pollen baskets. They blend it with wax flakes secreted from special glands on their abdomens to make the final product propolis which beekeepers refer to as bee glue. They do this to protect themselves from disease and kill any bacteria and fungus.

Propolis is used to line the interior of brood cells in preparation for the queen's laying of eggs, a most important procedure. With its antiseptic properties, this propolis lining insures a hospital-clean environment for the rearing of brood.

Chemically speaking, propolis is a very complex mixture. Its chemical elements vary according to its source. Colors range from golden brown to brownish green to reddish brown to blackish brown. A broad analysis reveals approximately 55 percent resinous compounds and balsam, 30 percent beeswax, 10 percent ethereal and aromatic oils, and 5 percent bee pollen. Many flavonols contribute to propolis.

Other components include cinnamic acid, cinnamyl alcohol, vanillin, caffeic acid, tetochrysin, isalpinin, pinocembrin, chrysin, galangin, and ferulic acid. Despite knowing the composition of propolis, humans have been unable to make a man made version of propolis. Propolis contains protein, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and flavonoids. Due to it's very nature - propolis does not taste very good. Since bees gather it from tree sap - you can imagine the taste!