When it comes to bee products, the first thing that comes to mind is honey, because it is popular and a staple in every household. But did you know that there is another bee product beneficial for your health? It is called propolis.
Propolis has long been used for centuries by ancient civilizations because of its medicinal properties. Today, propolis is more readily accessible to the public in capsule form and has been gaining popularity because of its benefits. This article will discuss the essential things about propolis capsules.
What are Propolis Capsules?
Propolis is a resin-like substance commonly obtained from beehives. Bees use it as a coating when building their hives to prevent cracks or cover openings. However, propolis in its purest form may sometimes be inedible because of debris. This is why propolis capsules are important because they enable people to consume propolis without any worries.
The quality of propolis capsules widely vary. This is because propolis differs on composition depending on the location of the honeybees and their access to flower plants and trees. For instance, propolis from Asia won’t have the same composition as propolis from Europe. It is widely believed that propolis capsules are from New Zealand.
What is the Main Component of Propolis Capsules?
According to a study in Science Direct, propolis contains polyphenol, a known antioxidant that can counteract harmful free radicals that damage cells. There are more than 8,000 different types of polyphenols, which are divided into the following groups:
- Flavonoids.The majority of polyphenols are part of this group, about 60%.
- Phenolic acids.30% of all polyphenols.
- Polyphenolic amides.These types of polyphenols are found in oats and chili peppers.
- Other polyphenols.Include resveratrol, ellagic acid, curcumin, and lignans.
What are the Health Benefits of Propolis Capsules?
Propolis capsules have numerous advantages and health benefits that can prevent or treat existing health conditions, including the following:
- Prevention of Diabetes
Propolis capsules can significantly decrease the risk of type 2 diabetes. This is because it helps in lowering blood sugar levels. Propolis capsules have a high flavonoid content (about 40mg per every two capsules), which are known to inhibit the breakdown of starch into sugar.
Polyphenols, such as flavonoids, are also known to stimulate the production and secretion of insulin hormone, which helps sugar enter the cells, making blood sugar remain at optimal levels.
- Protection Against Cancer
According to the NCI, free radicals can potentially harm the cells by damaging DNA, cell protein, and membranes. The damage caused by free radicals can lead to the development of cancer in the body. Fortunately, flavonoids come to the rescue.
As mentioned earlier, propolis has antioxidant properties because of polyphenols. Flavonoids have strong anti-inflammatory effects that prevent free-radicals from causing damage to cells. Thus, it prevents the development of cancer.
- Improve Wound Healing
For centuries, people have long used propolis as a remedy to treat wounds and abscess because of its antibacterial and healing properties. Propolis capsules do the same thing.
Propolis capsules prevent wounds from developing infections by supporting the immune system. This way, the body can combat bacteria and hasten the wound healing process.
Not all propolis products are created equal. If you have plans in buying propolis, it would be best to buy from a reliable and trusted seller. This way, you rest assured that you will get a premium product and not counterfeits or fakes.
