Propolis is a sap-like material found on the bark and leaves of trees, particularly poplar and conifer trees. Bees find propolis especially appealing and they use it in the construction of their hives.
Propolis can be used as an antibiotic, which is part of why bees like to build with it, because it helps keep bacteria and other harmful things out of the hive. Propolis is available in many antibiotic products and it seems to just as effective in that form.
Propolis is made up of proteins, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and flavonoids. Those elements made propolis popular as a supplement because they lead to better all-around wellness, though large quantities would be needed to get large amounts of these nutritional elements. Evidence suggests that propolis could also help make the immune system more effective. In addition, one study found that patients who used a propolis mouth rinse reported that oral surgical wounds healed more quickly.
by the Harvard School of Public Health
It has been asked by millions of people “If you eat a healthy diet, do you need to take vitamins?” Not very long ago, the common answer from most experts and professionals would have been an emphatic "no". However, today there's quite a bit of evidence that taking a daily multivitamin makes good sense for most adults.
by the Mayoclinic Staff
Given the popularity and availability of “high potency” amino acids, antioxidants, enzymes and herbs, it might seem like dietary supplements could replace food as a source of the nutrients the body requires. However, this is not the case.
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