(NaturalHealth365) If you love natural cures, you should know about bee propolis. Propolis benefits are numerous including, its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.  But, this incredible gift from nature can help us in so many other ways.

Bee propolis begins as a resin secreted by trees. Bees metabolize it, and the resulting substance is about 30 percent beeswax, 55 percent resins and 10 percent aromatic oils and ethers. It is responsible for creating a sterile, safe environment within bee hives, so it’s no surprise that it has antibiotic, antiviral and other healing properties.

Here are 9 bee propolis benefits that might surprise you:

1. Cancer cell death

Propolis seems to suppress numerous types of cancer, including prostate and colon cancer. It does so by triggering cell death and necrosis. Unlike chemotherapy, propolis only targets cancer cells, not healthy cells.

2. Healthier bones

Propolis also helps to build and maintain bone tissue. It suppresses the inflammatory response and halts bone deterioration.

3. Food poisoning relief

The antimicrobial effects of bee propolis make it effective against food poisoning. It effectively fights the microorganisms C. jejuni, Staphylococcus aureus and Enterobacter faecalis, three of the most common types.

4. Reduces inflammation

Complications from mouth or tooth injuries often include inflammation and infection. The anti-inflammatory propolis benefits were found to improve oral health outcomes. This offers promise for other conditions characterized by inflammation, including arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, and heart disease.

5. Lower blood pressure

Nitric oxide is crucial to heart health, and the TH (Tyrosine hydroxylase) enzyme can limit its production. Bee propolis decreases TH activity, leading to better blood pressure and relief from hypertension.

6. An effective wart remover

Plantar warts can be particularly difficult to treat, but propolis has been found highly effective when applied topically. Apply daily for two weeks for best results.

7. Natural allergy remedy

Bee propolis also calms many allergy symptoms. It does so by blocking the histamine response that can lead to a runny nose, itchy, watery eyes, and blotchy skin.

8. Heat stress protection

Propolis is rich with antioxidants as well as anti-inflammatory, antiviral and other compounds. They combine to bring protection from heat exhaustion and can improve athletic performance even in hot temperatures.

9. Help for infections and the common cold

Bee propolis is antibacterial, antiviral and antimicrobial, which it means it can help to fight the germs associated with infections, the flu and the common cold. In addition to combating a range of bacteria types, it slows the growth of viruses and fungi, supporting the immune system and promoting overall health.

Recommended bee propolis dosage can vary based upon usage and intent. It can be used orally or topically in tinctures or gels, which are available in varying strengths and potencies. Follow the instructions on the product label, and visit your healthcare provider – if you have additional questions.

References:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15490973

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2781777

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22471835

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1292560

https://ijpsr.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/9-Vol.-5-Issue-4-April-2014-IJPSR-RE-1206-Paper-9.pdf

https://www.webmd.com/first-aid/food-poisoning-treatment

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3655583