Jan 1, 2023 | Blog
What is it?
Propolis or bee glue is a resinous mixture that honey bees produce by mixing saliva and beeswax with exudate gathered from tree buds, sap flows, or other botanical sources. It is used as a sealant for unwanted open spaces in the hive
As an antimicrobial, preliminary scientific studies show that some types of propolis have in vitro antibacterial properties and anti-fungal activity and that is why it may be very effective when fighting acne. Propolis is also known in science as an antioxidant, an emollient and is being studied for skin cancer treatment and cancer prevention. Our innovative process of propolis keeps up to 98% of its natural features and uses its properties to naturally restore and maintain skin structure.
Bee Propolis is the focus of many scientific research projects surrounding it’s healing properties especially on our immune system.
The history of Bee Propolis
Propolis has been used for medicinal purposes since before 350 BC. The ancient Greeks used propolis to treat abscesses, Assyrians used it to help heal wounds and tumors, and Ancient Egyptians used propolis for mummification. In ancient Greece, Hippocrates, the most admired figure in the history of medicine, would use propolis to heal infections and wounds.
Alongside enjoying the great effects of honey & milk baths, the gorgeous Egyptian Pharaoh Cleopatra started using propolis, a mystic, powerful ingredient that was used during the embalming process. Propolis was known for its preserving abilities and effective treatments, and she applied these traits to her skin.
What is it used for today?
Propolis is commonly used for its healing, antiseptic and restorative capabilities. Propolis will assist in balancing, healing and soothing problematic skin. It also accelerates the rate of cell growth and decongests pores. Propolis protects against bacteria and functions as a great anti-inflammatory agent. This magical substance is being tested all around the world for it’s abilities in fighting Cancer cells and genital herpes.
You will find this wonderful ingredient in our award winning facial skin serum and many other of our products.
Apr 29, 2021 | Blog
Can you remember hearing that Honey improves memory for menopausal and post-menopausal women? Well, one study found that women given honey treatments for several weeks had the same boost in memory as women given oestrogen and progestin hormone therapy. So what other sweet stuff can honey be used for?
- The antioxidant properties in honey means you can apply it to your wound, and this will help it heal faster. Just let the honey sit for a few minutes and then rinse it off.
- Honey infused with propolis nourishes damaged skin, so helps scars fade. This is thanks to the same antioxidant properties which prevents infection in wounds. Massage raw honey on the affected skin using a circular motion for a minute or two.
- Need a gentler daily antibacterial scrub for your sensitive skin? Honey crystallizes over time, and the little granules break down in water. So you can use honey as a gentle exfoliant face wash. Warm it in your hands for a bit, and then apply to your face, and wash off afterwards.
- The moisturizing and soothing effects of raw honey means it can hydrate your skin. Try it- Apply honey to your skin as a face-mask for 20 minutes before massaging it off thoroughly with water.
- Honey can heal herpes sores just as quickly as pharmaceutical ointments and is better at dealing with the itchiness. Research shows honey to be effective in treating both oral and genital herpes.
- Take a teaspoon of honey with a pinch of salt when you wake up in the middle of the night, and can’t get back to sleep. “Early waking” insomnia can really mess with your productivity. Honey helps reset your levels of cortisol and adrenalin. The stress hormones that are keeping you from falling back into a cozy slumber.
- Pesky mosquitoes got through your defences and sprays? A drop of honey on a mosquito bite will reduce itchiness and irritation, and antibacterial qualities help prevent infection.
- Sneezing your nose off? Many believe that a dollop of honey desensitises you to pollen, and can help you develop immunity against allergies which cause hay fever.
- Stirring a tablespoon of honey in some warm water and adding this to a nice warm bath will make your skin smoother. Honey is full of antioxidants and your skin will love it.
- In addition to honey being a natural immune booster, natural anti-inflammatory agent, natural antimicrobial agent, there is also evidence that honey aids the healing of chronic ulcers and wounds; some of the risk factors for cancer development.
Jan 23, 2021 | Blog, Ingredient information
What is propolis? Where does it come from and why is it it such a miracle of nature? Helena van der Westhuizen of Simply Bee in Hopefield has spent years researching its properties.
Honeybees gather propolis, a resin, from tree bark and leaves. They combine this resin with nectar, creating mix of wax, pollen and bee bread. They then use this substance to seal their hives, protecting it from outside contaminants. They also use propolis at the entrance to the hive to sterilize themselves as they come and go.
Propolis contains 500 more bioflavonoids (vitamin p) than is found in oranges. Except for vitamin K. propolis has all the known Vitamins. Of the fourteen minerals required by the body, propolis contains them all with the exception of sulfur. Propolis is comprised of 50 to 70 percent resins and balsams, 30 to 50 percent wax. 5 to 10 percent bee pollen and 10 percent essential oils. Like royal jelly and bee pollen, propolis also contains a number of unidentified compounds which work together synergistically to create a perfectly balanced, nutritive substance.
Propolis, and ancient healer
While propolis is just now enjoying a rediscovery, its usefulness can be traced back to the time of Hippocrates, who used it to heal sores and ulcers, internally and externally. In Word War II, it was used by the Soviet Union to treat battle wounds. Propolis is an excellent natural antibiotic and immune system booster.
Nature’s penicillin
Synthetic antibiotics carry with them side effects – propolis, a natural antibiotic, has no such side effects. Propolis has also been shown to fight bacterial strains that have become resistant to synthetic antibiotics.
Propolis active compounds
Nineteen substances Of different Chemical Structure have been identified so far. These compounds include a number of substances which belong to the favonoid family induding betul ene and isovanillin.
Vitamin and Mineral Content :
- Vitamin A (carotene)
- Vitamin Bl
- Vitamin B2
- Vitamin 83
- Biotin
- An array of bioflavonoids
- Albumin
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Silica
- Potassium
- Phosphorus
- Manganese
- Cobalt
- Copper
Properties:
- Antibacterial
- Antiviral
- Antibiotic
- Antifungal
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antioxidant
Propolis’ high levels of bioflavonoids stimulates white blood cells to produce interferon. This greatly increases the body’s resistance to disease. Propolis also curtails the growth of protozoa and is therefore an effective treatment for some intestinal parasites. Propolis has been used in the past internally to combat: Gastro-intestinal infections, bacterial and fungal infections, sore throats, colds, malaria, cancer, HIV, peptic ulcers, ulcers in the mouth, ulcerative colitis, parasitic infections, tuberculosis and candidacies
At Simply Bee we use the propolis that our bees make in our Fynbos hives to preserve our products.
Products containing propolis
Simply Bee Propolis Serum
This richly repairing micro—emulsified serum contains a high concentration is from the Fynbos of the West Coast. Combined with Neroli, propolis concentrate calms, heals, and truly enriches your skin. Antibacterial and decongesting, this formulation alleviates micro—circulation problems and strengthens your fragile skin. Propolis has been proved to be beneficial to human skin and is considered luxurious. Propolis promotes new cell growth There are 50 different in propolis. Flavonoid improves the circulation of blood and the decomposition of pigments It also prevents skin aging and age spots. Propolis is also rich in vitamins especially vitamin P found in Rutin. Propolis serum is suitable for all skin types, specially sensitive skin.
Propolis liquid
Traditionally, propolis is used as an antibiotic and a stimulant of the immune system, therefore reducing the occurrence and severity of colds and flu and is very popular in the treatment of throat infections. Propolis from the beehive is known to increase resistance to infection and illnesses and is widely recognized as a preventative supplement. Propolis have natural antibiotic and anti-fungal properties, probably due to its natural content of flavonoids, organic acids, vitamins and numerous minerals.
Antiseptic balm
Antiseptic Balm is one of our best sellers from our Beeswax Products range, and a must for any respectable household first aid kit. This amazing ointment really helps and works for almost anything! We have had fantastic results in treating eczema. psoriasis, acne, sun damage, cold sores, rashes, insect bites. burns, nappy rash, bed sores and many more ailments, with antiseptic balm. The combination of propolis, beeswax, tea tree and myrrh, essential oils, make the perfect combination that is extremely healing.
Propolis balm
Simply Bee propolis can be used to repair sore and weak skin, prevent infections, heal open wounds and diminish acne. We’ve received positive feedback from customers about using the Propolis balm for leg ulcers, shingles, warts and boils. Diabetic sufferers who have problems with their legs will also benefit from rubbing this on the skin on the legs to heal sores.
Propolis acne balm
This product is a life-saver for acne skins! It’s the perfect solution and rescue for acne skin – to heal and protect.
Propolis acne balm for teen skins
Propolis, a substance collected by bees to protect the hive, has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral properties. The heal and diminish acne.
Propolis serum for teen skins
Propolis Serum is a rich micro-emulsified serum for your skin. This micro-emulsified serum contains a high concentration of Propolis from the Fynbos of the West Coast. We enrich this serum with Neroli essential oil. There are over 50 different flavonoids in propolis. Propolis are rich in vitamins, especially vitamin P found in Rutin. Suitable for all skin types.
Simply Bee propolis eye balm with buchu
Eye Balm supports elasticity, minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and protects the delicate skin around the eyes. Skin is moisturized, firmed and fortified.
Propolis & Arnica massage oil
When used in combination with massage, the arnica extract in this product can provide a soothing layer of warmth.
You can send us an email to info@simplybee.co.za or call 022-7230569 for more information on our propolis products.
