Propolis: A Natural Remedy Rediscovered by Modern Science

For thousands of years, humans have turned to nature for healing—and one of the most enduring natural remedies is propolis. Sometimes called “bee glue,” propolis is a resinous substance made by bees from plant resins, wax, and enzymes, used to seal and protect their hives. But this sticky substance has also played a major role in traditional medicine for centuries—and now modern science is catching up.

A Healing Legacy from Ancient Civilisations

Propolis was well known to ancient cultures. The Egyptians used it in embalming rituals due to its preservative and antimicrobial properties. In Ancient Greece and Rome, renowned physicians like Hippocrates and Dioscorides recommended it for treating wounds, ulcers, and infections of the mouth and throat.

The word "propolis" itself comes from Greek, meaning “in defense of the city”—a fitting name, considering how bees use it to protect their colonies, and how humans have long used it to protect their health.

Survival Through the Ages

Though it faded from formal medical texts during the Middle Ages, propolis continued to thrive in folk medicine across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. People used it to treat everything from sore throats to skin conditions. During the Renaissance, interest in natural remedies was revived, and propolis once again gained attention in scholarly circles.

Modern Research and Rediscovery

Scientific exploration of propolis began in earnest in the 20th century, particularly after World War II. Researchers discovered that propolis isn’t just one compound—it contains over 180 bioactive substances, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and essential oils. Many of these have been shown to have antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects.

Today, propolis is used in a wide range of natural health products and studied for potential benefits in:

• Wound healing and skin repair

• Oral health, including gum disease and mouth ulcers

• Immune support

• Throat and respiratory infections

• Neuroprotection and even anti-cancer research

At Manuka Natural, we recognize the synergy between traditional remedies and modern science. That’s why we use propolis in several of our formulations—combining it with other powerful ingredients like Manuka honey and essential oils to offer safe, natural, and effective solutions.

💧 Looking for a powerful propolis extract?
Try our Propolis Tincture – High Potency Natural Extract, made right here in New Zealand using premium-grade bee propolis.

Natural, But Not One-Size-Fits-All

One important note: propolis varies in its composition depending on the local plants bees have access to. This means Brazilian propolis can differ from New Zealand or European propolis in both chemical makeup and potency. This diversity is both a challenge for standardization and a rich source of untapped potential.

The Takeaway

Propolis is a shining example of how nature’s gifts can remain relevant—even vital—in modern times. With centuries of traditional use and growing scientific support, it continues to offer incredible benefits for natural health and wellbeing.

📚 Want to explore the research behind propolis?
You can read the full academic article "Historical Aspects of Propolis Research in Modern Times" here:
👉 View the full PDF on Academia.edu