Honey bees are essential to our food system. Without them, many of the foods we enjoy today would not exist.
Bee colonies consist of three distinct species–workers, queens and drones. Workers collect pollen and nectar from flowers, construct and clean the hive with their wings beat, while queens carry out reproductive duties by buzzing their wings in front of other bees to circulate air.
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Pollen
Pollen is the nutrient-rich food collected by bees from flowers. It contains lipids, proteins, polysaccharides, vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals and antioxidants such as quercetin and asrutin.
As a health supplement or to add flavor to salads, soups, chia pudding, yogurt parfaits and smoothie bowls – you can find this ingredient at health stores or your local farmer’s market.
Bee pollen is an excellent source of protein for the body and contains choline, which promotes brain health. Additionally, it may improve gastrointestinal issues and boost energy levels.
Alternative health professionals suggest taking bee pollen in moderation, starting with 1/4 teaspoon daily and increasing to 1 tablespoon over time. It’s best to consult your doctor before using any type of dietary supplement, particularly if you are on blood-thinning medications as these could interact with them.
Honey
Honey is a thick, sweet liquid created by bees from nectar – the sugary juice found in flowers. Its color and flavor vary depending on what kind of nectar is collected from plants.
Bees collect nectar and store it in their crop, or honey stomach. As the water level in the nectar drops below 18 percent, bacteria and mold cannot thrive there, and the nectar is transformed into honey.
Honey can be used in place of sugar in most recipes, though the consistency and flavor may not be identical. For best results, use local honey when possible.
Bees also produce propolis, which they mix with honey to seal small gaps in their hives. Propolis is believed to have antimicrobial properties and humans have used it for various purposes such as healing burns. Furthermore, scientists are studying its potential use in treating various health issues.
Beeswax
Beeswax is an all-natural product derived from bees that has many uses. It can help reduce cholesterol, prevent infection, and shield the stomach against ulcers caused by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Cosmetically, it hydrates, conditions, soothes and calms. Exfoliation repairs or regenerates damaged skin cells to diminish signs of aging while softening dry or damaged areas to heal abrasions and add shine to hair. Medically speaking, vitamin E encourages cell growth as well as aids wound healing by stimulating healthy cell production.
Beeswax can be used for many recipes and crafts, like candles. Just remember to read the label instructions carefully and consult your physician before using any home remedies – especially if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
Propolis
Propolis, or bee glue as it’s commonly known, is a sticky resinous substance produced by honey bees to seal cells of their hive and coat its walls. This protective layer serves to keep out fungi, bacteria and viruses from invading their nest.
Bees collect resins from trees and plants to create propolis, which they then deposit into the hive. Propolis’ antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities help shield the hive against infections while supporting overall colony health.
Propolis resins contain flavonoids and phenolics, plant compounds which act as natural immunity boosters for bee hives. Furthermore, propolis contains vitamins, minerals and other beneficial plant compounds.
Propolis is widely used in bee products, such as bee pollen bars, honey with propolis, lozenges and chewing gum. It also appears in many K-beauty skincare items and has been tested clinically as a wound healing ingredient.
