Introduction
Propolis is a resinous substance collected by bees from tree buds and other botanical sources. Bees use propolis to seal small openings in their hives, protecting them against bacteria, fungi, and other threats. Historically, propolis has been utilized by various cultures due to its medicinal and healing properties.
Composition and Properties
Propolis, often searched for as "green propolis" and "red propolis," is composed of a complex mix of resins, balsams, essential oils, wax, and pollen. It contains over 300 active compounds, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, terpenes, and several B-complex vitamins like riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), and pantothenic acid (B5).
These substances give propolis its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties.
Where it starts defines its quality
Green propolis is primarily derived from the plant Baccharis dracunculifolia, native to Brazil. Red propolis comes from Dalbergia ecastophyllum, found in Brazil, Australia, and New Zealand. Bees act as intermediaries, collecting and transforming plant resins into propolis, thereby transferring the rich botanical properties to the propolis.
Japan is one of the countries that heavily invest in propolis research, focusing on key isolated active ingredients such as artepillin-C and bacarin. These compounds have been extensively studied for their significant therapeutic properties, including antimicrobial and anti-tumor activities.