By Dr. Jonn Matsen

At this time of the year, many of my patients come to see me for relief of their cold and flu symptoms, for which I commonly recommend a supplement called propolis.

Propolis is a resinous substance that honeybees gather from a variety of trees (particularly the cottonwood) and combine with wax, nectar and pollen to create a “glue” to seal holes and cracks within their hives. Bees also use propolis to maintain the sterility of their home by placing it at the entrance to the hive. This helps to keep out invaders by narrowing the entrance and acts as a disinfectant against any viruses or bacteria that may be brought in by the returning worker bees. Propolis is also used by the bees to disinfect their honey.

Propolis is rich in vitamins, minerals, amino acids and bioflavonoids. It has been used for centuries as a natural antibiotic and is also antiviral, antifungal and anti-inflammatory. it is also likely propolis has anti-helicobacterial properties.

Austrian research showed relief of gastric and duodenal ulcers for the majority of those who used it. Clinically, propolis works well for relief of allergies for many people as well.

Like all cold remedies, propolis works best when taken at the onset of symptoms and should be taken several times a day, every four to five hours. Many people prefer to take propolis in capsule form because they don’t like the taste of the liquid.

We tend to pick up other people’s viruses when exposed to the air conditioning and heating systems in enclosed spaces, so I also recommend propolis as a preventative measure for those who are going to be traveling by airplane or cruise ship.