Propolis or bee wax is a mixture produced by bees that they use in their nests. Propolis is antibacterial so bees can protect their nest with pathogens. Thanks to its antiseptic properties, propolis prevents the spread of infectious diseases in the nest. From ancient times, people have used it to treat respiratory diseases. Today it is used as an antiseptic or disinfectant to treat wounds and other injuries. It is also used for the treatment of inflammatory diseases, such as rhinitis, cough and sinusitis. It also has good effects on oral hygiene and is used, among other things, in toothpaste.
What’s on this page?
How does it work?
At the end of 2014, Japanese researchers found a new feature of propolis – strengthening hair growth. According to a scientific article published in Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, it appears that the substance can be used in the treatment of baldness.
Researchers from the University of Hokkaido wanted to study this and spread a mixture of ethanol and propolis on the skin of hairless mice. It was found that the hair of these mice grew back faster than in the others. How did this happen? According to Japanese researchers, propolis promotes the growth of keratinocytes which are an important building blocks for hair. However, the results are not completely accurate, as it should be remembered that the study was done on mice who did not suffer from male pattern baldness. However, scientists are optimistic, as hair loss is often the result of inflammation, so it is sensible to believe that an anti-inflammatory drug would help.
When the active ingredients of propolis are examined more closely, can be stated that it has many substances that can help to prevent baldness. These are especially vitamins and other elements such as zinc and iron. Although, Its composition is not identical between different bee nests and it also varies according to the season.
When should Propolis be used?
Propolis may be helpful when the problem at hand is male pattern baldness, seasonal hair loss or early baldness. Propolis is an over-the-counter drug, which means that a prescription from the pharmacy is not needed. It is available as a tablet, chewing gum, an ethereal oil and a scalp spray. The recommended dosage is 600-1500 mg per day and should be used once or twice a day. Although it is not toxic, it is not recommended for continuous use, but for example in three-week or three-month cycles.
Even if it is a natural substance, remember to take precaution when using it. It should not be used in conjunction with Tiger Balm or Balsam of Peru as the combination may cause allergic reactions. Propolis should not be used if you are allergic to bee products. It is also not recommended for pollen allergies as it may contain some pollen itself. As a side effect it may cause nettle rash, as well as mild respiratory or kidney deficiency
Price of Propolis
You can buy Propolis from many different shops, and no prescription is needed to procure it. It can be bought for example from pharmacies, health food stores, the Internet and some bee farms. Price depends on the form in which the substance is used. Hard gelatin capsules are seen as the best option. Monthly dosage of these can cost about 15-20 pounds.
