Science clears obstacle for bee aid to health
Many uses of propolis – a mixture of resin and wax made by bees to seal and sterilise their hives – have been known for years but its use in medicine and food supplements has been limited because it is not soluble and has a pungent smell.
Now researchers at Bradford University's Centre for Pharmaceutical Engineering Science have developed a way of purifying it so it retains its medicinal properties, dissolves in water and eliminates the strong odour.
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Hide AdThe technique has already led to the development of a new mouth ulcer gel with Whitby-based firm Nature's Laboratory and could open the door to other uses.
Prof Anant Paradkar, who led the research, said: "Propolis has been shown to be anti-microbial, anti-fungal, a strong anti-oxidant, non-allergenic and can boost the immune system. It also promotes wound healing and has anaesthetic properties."