The world of bees is fascinating, interesting and bubbles up with so much health benefits, that it would be wise if you spend some time, to know about its secrets. While writing this post I was literally transferred to the magical world of bees. Hope this post has the same effect on you once you start reading it.
The beneficial products we get from the beehive include honey, propolis, royal jelly and bee pollen. In this post we shall discuss about the health benefits of each of them. First let us start with the well known beehive product honey.
Honey
It is a natural energy booster, increases immunity and it is one of your granny’s favorite home remedy to many ailments. Honey contains powerful antioxidants with antiseptic and antibacterial properties. It is a good heart stimulant. Honey is very effective for cough from upper respiratory tract infection.
Honey increases athletic performance and heals wounds. A spoonful full of honey each day guards against free radical attack. It is safe for healthy people as well as those suffering from high cholesterol and type 2 diabetes.
Bee propolis
It is a resinous substance collected by bees from tree buds and otherwise known as bee glue. Propolis is very effective against gum disease causing micro organisms. It helps in preventing the growth of certain types of cancer such as colon, pancreatic and prostate cancer. It heals burns and is a good remedy for wound infections.Propolis enhances the immune defenses of the body. It has beneficial effect on asthma patients and suppresses herpes virus. It helps you to become slim. However it should never be used near the eye as it might cause vision or eye sight problems and it may cause skin allergies.
Royal jelly
Royal jelly is a secretion that is used in the nutrition of larvae and adult queen bees. It is rich in antioxidants and enhances the immune system. It contains nutrients which help in skin renewal. It helps to control diabetes and blood sugar.
Royal jelly has a beneficial effect on osteoporosis and bone loss. It helps to prevent breast cancer and control cholesterol levels. It contains anti-inflammatory properties and is good for diseases such as Alzheimer’s and arthritis. Royal jelly can cause allergic reactions.
Bee pollen
It is also called as bee bread. They are granules of pollen made by worker bees with the addition of honey or nectar. It is good if you take bee pollen for a shorter span of time. It normalizes cholesterol and triglyceride level in blood.
It is packed with nutrients and can be used as a food supplement. Bee pollen is good for people who suffer from cancer, helps in weight loss and prevents premature ageing. Bee pollen prevents cells against free radical attack. It can be used as a supplement for those suffering from multiple sclerosis and it improves skin health.As to conclude it is better to seek the advice of your doctor before starting any new food supplements or medicines.
Take care,
Swarnam
photo courtesy of Boaz Yiftach
http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/images/view_photog.php?photogid=1408 (honey)
photo courtesy of Sura Nualpradid
http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/images/view_photog.php?photogid=1750 (bee pollen)
Take care,
Swarnam
Swarnam