What do Buzzing bees, flowers, healing, and tasty snacks have in common.
Honey!
Honey is one of nature’s sweeteners that has been around since the beginning of time. It can be used in baking, cooking, and in natural remedies. Along with honey, there is bee propolis. Which is equally amazing!
As I researched for this blog I was so confused. I didn’t know what propolis was. I saw it in several medical articles but assumed it was speaking of honey. But I have come to learn that it is much different.
Honey is the sweet liquid gold that grocery stores sell on their shelves. It can crystallize over time; it soothes throats and can be put on wounds to help heal.
Propolis is different. It has a “bitter and earthy taste profile compared to honey (beekeepercorner.com).” Because of it’s high wax content it can stay in a liquid form longer than honey. In the video below you’ll see that you can even make tinctures out of the propolis!
Both have health benefits. Beekeepercorner states “while both are natural products with health benefits, they have distinct properties and uses. Propolis is more effective against certain types of infections due to its antimicrobial properties, whereas honey has antibacterial and antifungal effects. Understanding the specific needs and benefits of each product will help you choose the right one for your requirements.”
Not only do they have those properties but they are also anti-inflammatory. I discovered that honey and propolis can be used as pain relievers! I specifically looked into relieving period cramps.
I discovered that scientists in Iran have studied bee propolis’ relief to the cramps menstrual cycles. The study concluded this ” the use of bee propolis for 2 months compared with placebo reduced primary dysmenorrhea (cramps) during the first and second months after use, with no adverse effects. Therefore, it can be used as an alternative to NSAIDs for relief of primary dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps).”
Another study was conducted with honey and it was concluded that “Honey and the mefenamic acid capsules led to the same amount of pain relief in women with primary dysmenorrhea. Honey is suggested to be used for pain relief due to its lower side effects and pharmacological complications”
Mojedeh Hessari PH.D wrote this in her article on honey therapy
“Periods may bring discomfort and pain, but
relying solely on medication may not be the
healthiest solution in the long run. Natural
remedies, such as ginger and turmeric tea, offer
a safer and effective alternative for managing period pain. By embracing these natural
remedies, women can alleviate their discomfort
while minimizing the potential side effects
associated with medication. (emphasis added) Remember, each
woman’s experience is unique, so finding the
right approach for your body is essential. Honey
serves as a versatile and natural remedy for
various health concerns that women commonly
experience. From relieving menstrual symptoms
and balancing hormones to boosting immunity
and promoting youthful-looking skin, honey
offers a holistic approach to wellness. By
incorporating honey into your daily routine,
whether through consumption or topical
application, Honey benefits and embark on a
journey towards improved well-being. Embrace
the healing power of honey and experience its
transformative effects on your body and mind.”
All in all – I have never been so grateful for honey in all my life and I regret my aversion to it for so long!
Mom, you were right.
Additional reading:
- The effect of bee prepolis on primary dysmenorrhea: a randomized clinical trial – PMC
- Comparison of the effect of honey and mefenamic acid on the severity of pain in women with primary dysmenorrhea – PubMed
- Propolis vs Honey: Know the Differences – Beekeeper Corner
- The Benefits Of Propolis: Everything You Need To Know
- (PDF) THE POTENTIAL OF HONEY THERAPY FOR MENSTRUAL CRAMPS
Hopefilled Havice 
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