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.

The 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."