Propolis tincture | 10% | 30ml

What is Propolis?

Propolis, a natural bee product, is created as bees seal gaps in their hives and boxes. They collect this substance from trees and shrubs, preferably from poplars and birches, but also from other plants. Within a bee colony, only a few dozen bees are engaged in gathering propolis, resulting in about 50-100 grams per colony per year.

The Versatile Role of Propolis:

Propolis possesses both antibacterial and antifungal properties. Within the bee colony, it serves as a defense mechanism against diseases and infections. Natural bee colonies inhabit hollow trees. Propolis prevents wood rot and fungal growth, allowing bees to use their hollow living environment for an extended period. Intruders, such as mice, are encapsulated and mummified by propolis.

Applications and Usage of Propolis Tincture:

Note - the tincture from 'imkerij de iemhof' consists of 10% propolis, about 10% water, and 80% alcohol.

In the form of a tincture, it can be consumed alongside honey or bread. It boosts immunity, combats infections, and enhances the effectiveness of antibiotics. It's used for conditions such as (chronic) urinary tract infections, colds, flu, and intestinal infections.

Use by animals:

Propolis can also be applied to animals, with the advantage that bacteria and fungi do not become resistant to it.

Beware of Allergies:

In some individuals, an allergy to propolis can occur or develop.

Patience is Required:

In general, propolis doesn't work as quickly as modern medicines. Sometimes it takes 3 to 4 weeks before effects are noticed.

Harvesting Propolis:

A portion of the propolis is obtained during the cleaning of hives and frames. Raw propolis is created by scraping propolis and wax. Recently, propolis is also harvested using special screens or cover boards. Screens or boards with openings are placed on the bee colonies to stimulate propolis production.

Processing Propolis:

Raw propolis is first cleaned of visible impurities. Then, it's heated to around 80 degrees Celsius. This melts the wax within the raw propolis, allowing it to be separated from the propolis. The still-warm propolis is cut into small pieces and placed in a bottle with pure alcohol. After about a month, all propolis is dissolved, while wax and dirt residues do not dissolve and are removed through settling or filtration. The resulting tincture can be diluted to the correct strength or used to make ointment.'