Propolis – also called bee glue – is a sticky resin that honeybees collect from plant buds and tree bark. In Turkish it is also propolis or arı reçinesi.
What do bees use it for?
Bees use propolis as building material: to seal cracks, narrow the hive entrance in winter and coat the inner walls of the hive. The name comes from Greek pro ("before") and polis ("city").
How is it harvested?
Beekeepers place special grids in the hive, which the bees seal with propolis. The grids are then chilled so the resin becomes brittle and breaks off easily.
Forms of propolis
- Raw propolis – solid pieces from the hive.
- Tincture / extract – dissolved in alcohol or water.
- Paste – mixed with honey and other ingredients. → Zühre Ana Propolis Paste
- Spray – liquid extract.
What to look out for
- Read the ingredient list and the propolis content.
- Avoid propolis if you are allergic to bee products or pollen.
- Food supplements are not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet; do not exceed the recommended daily dose.
- During pregnancy, breastfeeding or for children, ask a doctor first.
FAQ
Is propolis the same as honey?
No. Honey comes from flower nectar; propolis is a resin from plant buds used by bees as building material.
Is propolis vegan?
No, it is a bee product.
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