If you assumed bees only produce honey, well, you are mistaken honey. Along with beeswax and the sticky substance we use to sweeten our teas, bees also produce propolis.
The medicinal benefits of propolis have been utilized all over the world for centuries. The first uses of this substance were dated before 350 BC when the ancient Greeks used it to treat abscesses and bruises. Assyrians used propolis to help heal wounds and the mesmerizing Egyptian Pharoah Cleopatra even used propolis in the mummification process.
What Is Bee Propolis?
Propolis is a resinous mixture bees create to use as a glue to help seal their hives. Bees also use propolis as a natural disinfectant against bacteria, so it’s no wonder as to why it provides the same defense for our skin.
Bee propolis is actually created from bees mixing their own saliva with beeswax and the resin from tree sap and other botanical sources. Propolis contains over 300 natural compounds like polyphenols, courmarins, and amino acids that can all do wonders for your skin.
Cleopatra often used propolis in her skin regimen. And along with enjoying a relaxing honey and milk baths to calm her senses, she also used this powerful ingredient during the embalming process to help preserve the bodies during mummification.
How Is Propolis Good for Your Skin
Propolis is known scientifically as an antioxidant, and is antibacterial and antifungal. It is also an antimicrobial agent (i.e a substance that protects against microorganisms). These qualities are all proven to help fight and prevent acne.
Propolis will help heal and balance uneven skin tones. It also decongests and unclogs pores while protecting your skin against bacteria. In addition, propolis is effective for treating irritated and puffy skin, considering it’s an anti-inflammatory agent.
Along with the previously mentioned benefits, bee propolis is also good for the following conditions:
Removing Warts
Propolis has antiviral and anti-inflammatory capabilities that help shrink and remove warts. So, if you are struggling with pesky warts, try applying 2 drops of a propolis tincture on a daily basis for 2 weeks to make them disappear.
Heal Burns
Bee propolis contains anti-inflammatory and renewing properties that helps heal sunburns, as well as second degree burns. If you happen to get a sunburn at the beach, try mixing aloe vera gel, coconut oil, and propolis together to help soothe your irritated skin.
Treat Parasites
Taken orally, bee propolis can help your body get rid of intestinal parasites. According to a study, bee propolis has been proven effective in fighting giardiasis, which is an infection that starts in your small intestine. It was proven successful in curing 60% of cases at a 30% concentration rate.
Calming Homemade Facial Propolis Clay Mask
What You Will Need:
- 2 tbsp facial clay of your choice
- ½ tsp powdered mint leaves
- ½ tsp dried honey (or 1 tsp normal honey)
- ½ tsp carrier oils, whichever ones you want, in any combination
- 6 drops bee propolis
- Essential oils of choice, 6-8 drops total
- Water
Method:
Combine all the dry ingredients first, then add the wet ingredients, except the water. Stir to mix, then add the water, a little at a time, until you have a smooth, paste-like consistency.
Spread the paste onto your face, avoiding your eyes, mouth, and nostrils. Let it dry for about 10 minutes before washing it off. Relax and enjoy yourself, try not to make too many outrageous facial expressions or the mask will just start to crack and fall off.
Add Bee Propolis to Your Skin-Care Regimen
Although the occasional bee sting might hurt and may even feel a bit excruciating to our skin, ironically enough, bees produce substances that we use to protect our skin on a daily basis.
Bee propolis has a variety of natural compounds that promote healthy, youthful skin. Cleopatra used propolis for her beauty remedies, and if she had beautiful flawless skin, why can’t you?
External and internal use of propolis has been deemed safe for everyday use, but make sure you check in with your doctor to make sure adding propolis to your daily skin care regimen is right for you.
