Bee Products

Bee Propolis

Bee propolis is a resinous substance secreted by honey bees after collecting resin from poplar and conifer buds. They mix this resin with enzymes and beeswax to seal against moisture, glue any unwanted cracks or spaces in the beehive, and for sanitation purposes. Bees also wrap unwanted insects that enter the hive in propolis to mummify them if they can't remove them from the hive. Bee Propolis is a mixture of resin, waxes, essential oils, enzymes, vitamins A and B, flavonoids, minerals, amino acids, and ethanol. Herstat and Cold Sore FX contain bee propolis.

Bee propolis has antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. Bee propolis and bee pollen are potent antivirals and anti-inflammatory agents that help heal burns, blisters, and herpes lesions. It is said to reduce the amount of the herpes virus within the body more so than the prescription medication Acyclovir. However, scientific research on bee propolis is limited. 

Propolis is typically brown in color and has a grainy appearance, but can also be yellow, green, or even black. It tastes bitter (or sour) and a bit like turpentine.  

Applying propolis ointment five times daily may help heal cold sores more quickly and reduce associated pain.

Note: Some individuals with bee allergies may also be allergic to bee propolis. Therefore, it is recommended that you perform a patch test before using a bee propolis ointment to determine if it will alleviate your symptoms. Place a dime-sized patch of propolis on the inner arm, cover it with a band-aid, and check after 24 hours for any itch, reddening, inflammation, or welts (hives). Do not use bee propolis as part of your wellness regimen if you experience any of the following symptoms. This patch test is only applicable to individuals over two years old. Babies and toddlers under two can be severely allergic, as their systems are not yet fully developed to metabolize bee products. If your patch test is negative (no signs of sensitivity), you can begin using propolis ointment by dabbing a small amount onto irritated or broken skin. Ensure you buy a salve or balm (not a tincture or capsule), and always follow the directions listed on your product label. ​

Bee Pollen 

Worker bees collect bee pollen from flowers. Bees mix pollen with nectar and saliva and pack it into honeycomb cells in the beehive. Bee pollen is extremely high in the eight essential amino acids and contains vitamins A, B (all), D, C, E, K, and C, as well as bioflavonoids. Bee pollens come from many different plants, so the contents of bee pollen can vary significantly. Bee pollen has been a source of energy and an anti-aging food for centuries. I haven't tried it myself (I'm allergic to bees). Bee pollen may stimulate the immune system, but its exact mechanism of action needs clarification. It's packed full of the types of vitamins that help reduce stress. If you have an autoimmune disorder, refrain from using bee products until you talk with your doctor. 

As long as you aren't allergic to bees, add one teaspoon of bee pollen to 2 teaspoons of pure hot water (not boiling) in a small bowl. Wait a couple of minutes for the pollen to soften, then mash it into a paste with the back of a spoon or pestle. Add one teaspoon of raw honey (Manuka honey is best) and apply it to herpes lesions or any other minor burn with a Q-Tip to moderate the burn. Alternatively, add bee pollen to virgin coconut oil, Saint John's Wort oil, or Tamanu oil (all antiviral), along with a few drops of geranium or lavender essential oil for nerve pain (using 30 drops of essential oils per 2 tablespoons of base oil). You can also add bee pollen to smoothies.

Royal Jelly

Royal jelly is another substance produced by worker honeybees, which is fed to the queen bee to promote her growth and extend her lifespan. It's a complex mixture of proteins, sugars, and fats, rich in B vitamins. Traditionally, people have used royal jelly for skin and hair care, as well as a general tonic to support hormonal balance and boost energy. A study found that royal jelly decreased the viral load of HSV-1 and inhibited the growth of cold sores.

Raw Honey 

Raw honey has high inhibitory effects against HSV-1 (cold sores), eases pain, and speeds the healing of burns, including burns caused by radiation therapy. Manuka honey works best. 

Note: There are numerous bee products available on the market. However, you'll want to check the list of ingredients for any that have the potential to be toxic or cause inflammation, such as paraffin wax. Adding bee products to coconut, Saint John's Wort, or tamanu oil (30 drops to 2 tablespoons of the oil), which are antiviral, along with a few drops of geranium essential oil for nerve pain, is a safer option.