There are a variety of bees with varying purposes but one commonality they share is their incredible importance as pollinators and helping maintain healthy ecosystems. Honeybees are known for the delicious honey and honeycombs they help produce which varies by flavor depending on the geographical location, time of year, and types of plants the bees pollinate. But did you know that honeybees also produce a myriad of other nutrient-dense products? Stay tuned as we break down some of our favorite bee products.
The Buzz About Propolis
Propolis, also known as bee glue, is a resin-like mixture produced by honeybees from plant parts and tree buds. It is often used in hives as a sealant and protective barrier from potential invaders and inclement weather. Propolis is composed of a combination of resins, waxes, essential oils, pollen, and other organic compounds. Over 300 chemical compounds have been discovered in propolis so far which aid in its health-promoting properties.
Propolis has been used since ancient times for overall immune health and wound healing. Terry Naturally offers a unique product, Propolis Extract, which uses a clinically studied propolis to aid in overall natural immune resistance. Their propolis contains no inert beeswax so it is safe from impurities that may be found in products that are not 100% propolis. Furthermore, it is ideal for both kids and adults focusing on upper respiratory support and ear health. Terry Naturally offers this in both a capsule and chewable tablet form.
Understanding Royal Jelly
Royal jelly is produced by worker bees and is often referred to as “mother’s milk” that is fed to the bee’s young and to the developing queen bee. It is a protein-rich substance and is highly nutritious, containing a mixture of amino acids, lipids, water, vitamins, sugars, and minerals. Royal jelly has a high polyphenol content, also known as naturally occurring plant compounds, with antioxidant and health-promoting functions. It has been shown to potentially aid in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels, promoting enhanced collagen production for skin health, and may help proper immune function.
Now Food’s Royal Jelly softgels are freeze-dried to ensure maximum stability of nutrients. Additionally, Now Food’s Ginseng and Royal Jelly combines the superfood benefits of royal jelly with panax ginseng to provide invigorating adaptogenic properties for maximum wellness support.
All About Bee Pollen
Bee pollen is a mixture of nectar, flower pollen, honey, and bees’ digestive enzymes that is collected by worker bees. The bees collect the pollen as they travel plant to plant and store the pellets in the honeycomb cells as a food source. Bee pollen contains a potent combination of antioxidants, amino acids, proteins, and minerals. Plus, it is a highly bioactive source of carotenoids, bioflavonoids, fatty acids, enzymes, and phytosterols. Bee pollen has been used since ancient times to support immunity, help maintain balanced inflammation levels, and aid in energy support.
Y.S. Bee Farm’s Fresh Bee Pollen is a carefully captured and preserved bee pollen in a whole granule form. It can easily be used in a smoothie or simply sprinkled on top of food as it has very little flavor! Additionally, Now Food’s Bee Pollen capsules are an easy option for people on-the-go! For those looking for a soothing skin option, The Soap Works Bee Pollen Soap Bar is a luxurious option for ample skin nourishment.
*These bee products are not suitable for those with allergies to bees and should always be approved by a doctor if you are not sure if you are allergic to bee products. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave us a comment or visit us in-stores for further assistance.