Science of Propolis
Propolis varies between hives, districts and seasons. It is usually dark brown in color, but colour variations occur depending on available vegetation.
The environment also affects chemical composition. Propolis may contain – resins, balsams, waxes, essential oils, pollen and minerals.
How bees use Propolis
Bees make Propolis to seal cracks and repair other hive damage. Sealing cracks reduces the risk of disease and parasites entering the hive. The resinous nature of Propolis also makes it ideal for preventing putrefaction within the hive, e.g. small mice or lizards that might die in the hive can be sealed in in Propolis.
Propolis uses
Dried Propolis is scraped from hives and frames. The flakes may then be powdered for use or soaked to extract desired constituents. Propolis is used as an innovative preservative.
Antimicrobial activity of honey and Propolis products showed synergic effects, resulting in higher results than those of the base honeys and Propolis extracts.
Nelson Honey produces a range of Propolis products; Propolis Standardised Liquid Extract 20% in dropper and throat spray, and Manuka Honey 100+ MG with added Propolis Extract 1.56g.