Propolis

Propolis is a resin-like material from the buds of poplar and cone-bearing trees. Propolis is rarely available in its pure form. It is usually obtained from beehives and contains bee products.

Propolis has a long history of medicinal use, dating back to 350 B.C., the time of Aristotle. Greeks have used propolis for abscesses; Assyrians have used it for healing wounds and tumors; and Egyptians have used it for mummification. It still has many medicinal uses today, although its effectiveness has only been shown for a couple of them. People sometimes apply propolis directly to the skin for wound cleansing, and as a mouth rinse for speeding healing following oral surgery; and for the treatment of minor burns. Propolis is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, used to treat canker sores and other infections caused by bacteria, some people even use it to treat the common cold. Propolis can also used for boosting the immune system; and for treating gastrointestinal problems.

In manufacturing, propolis is used as an ingredient in cosmetics.