Green Propolis Benefits: Green Gold 

Think about green propolis as a natural option to enhance your immune system and promote better health. Its remarkable health benefits have made this specific kind of propolis, called ‘green gold’ in Brazil, renowned worldwide.

In this article, we’ll explore the amazing benefits of green propolis and how it can help improve your health and wellbeing. From boosting your immune system to reducing inflammation and fighting cancer, it has a lot to offer. So, let’s dive in!

What is Green Propolis?

Bees collect a resinous substance called propolis from trees and plants to protect their hive from bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms. A type of propolis, known as green propolis, is collected by bees from a specific species of Baccharis plant found in Brazil. Green propolis contains a high concentration of flavonoids, phenolic acids, and terpenes, which are responsible for its therapeutic properties. This distinctive substance has a strong herbal scent and a green color.

The Composition of Green Propolis

Propolis contains more than 300 active compounds, including:

• Flavonoids: These are powerful antioxidants that protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation. It contains high levels of flavonoids, including pinocembrin, chrysin, and Galangin.
• Phenolic acids: These are organic compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Propolis contains caffeic acid, ferulic acid, and p-coumaric acid.
• Terpenes: These are natural compounds found in many plants that have antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Green propolis contains terpenes such as nerolidol, germacrene D, and α-bisabolol.

How is Green Propolis Made?

The bees collect resin from Baccharis plants to make green propolis. They mix the resin with beeswax, enzymes, and other substances in the beehive to create propolis. The green color of green propolis comes from the high concentration of baccharin, a flavonoid found in Baccharis plants.

Traditional Uses of Green Propolis

Traditional medicine in Brazil has been using propolis for centuries due to its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. This unique substance has been utilized to treat various health conditions, such as:

• Colds and flu
• Sore throat
• Mouth ulcers
• Digestive problems
• Skin infections
• Wounds and burns

Scientific Studies on Green Propolis

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the health benefits of green propolis. Numerous studies have been conducted on its therapeutic properties, and the results are promising.

One study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that propolis extract had a strong antioxidant activity and was effective in scavenging free radicals in the body. A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food demonstrated that propolis extract exhibits potent anti-inflammatory effects, indicating its potential to reduce inflammation in the body.

It has also been shown to have antimicrobial properties. A study published in the Journal of Applied Microbiology found that propolis was effective against several types of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.

Health Benefits of Green Propolis

Let’s take a closer look at some of the amazing health benefits of green propolis.

1. Boosts Immune System

Studies have demonstrated that propolis possesses immunomodulatory effects, indicating that it can assist in regulating and strengthening the immune system. A study published in the Journal of Natural Products found that green propolis extract increased the activity of natural killer cells, which are important for fighting infections and cancer.

2. Reduces Inflammation

Inflammation is a natural response of the immune system to injury or infection. However, chronic inflammation can contribute to the development of many chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Studies have confirmed that it possesses potent anti-inflammatory effects and can assist in reducing inflammation in the body.

3. Protects Liver

The liver, which plays a crucial role in detoxification and metabolism, is an essential organ in the body. Studies have demonstrated that propolis has hepatoprotective effects, indicating that it can help safeguard the liver against damage caused by toxins and other harmful substances.

4. Fights Cancer

Several studies have investigated the anticancer properties of green propolis. One study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that propolis extract inhibited the growth of colon cancer cells. Another study published in the Journal of Natural Products found that the extract had cytotoxic effects on leukemia cells.

5. Promotes Oral Health

For generations, people have been using propolis to tackle common oral health concerns such as gum disease, tooth decay, and mouth ulcers. Recent research has confirmed that it possesses antimicrobial properties that can inhibit the growth of bacteria in the mouth, making it an effective option for maintaining oral health.

6. Helps Heal Wounds

It has been used for centuries to help heal wounds and burns. Studies have shown that it has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help speed up the healing process.

7. Improves Skin Health

Studies have revealed that it exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can enhance skin health. It has therapeutic properties that make it effective in alleviating a wide range of skin conditions, including acne, eczema, and psoriasis.

How to Take Green Propolis

It is available in capsules, tinctures, and extracts.

Precautions and Side Effects

Consulting with a physician can help ensure that propolis is safe for you to use and does not interfere with any current medications or treatments.

Conclusion

Centuries of use in traditional medicine attest to the unique and powerful natural remedy that propolis is. It has a wide range of health benefits, including boosting the immune system,