We don’t realise it but honey bees are pollinators of the majority of the plants, fruit and trees that grow on the planet. They certainly aren’t the only pollinators but they get around. Along with gathering pollen and nectar, bees also collect tree sap mixed with a mix of substances to create bee propolis.
This bee propolis is affectionately nicknamed “bee cement” as it is used by bees to close any gaps or seal any openings in the beehive to ensure efficient internal climate control of the beehive. Bee propolis is a phenomenal medicinal bee product offering antibiotic, antiviral and anti-fungal properties for herbal remedies or even for soaps.
Recent studies have shown the bee sting to have used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis and other arthritic diseases. Honey bee venom comprises a cocktail of different proteins yet to be fully studied as to the reason for their combination and efficiency. A bee sting will affect people in different ways. Some people are even allergic to a bee sting. The main effect a bee sting will have is causing anaphylactic shock. Your heartbeat increases and so does the breathing rate. One reason a bee sting is used for arthritis treatment is that the bee venom helps to ease the joints.
Bee sting treatment can be as simple as removing the bee sting and applying anti-itch ointment. For some people, it may require the administering of adrenalin injection to stabilise the body in an extreme case. It is suggested that antihistamine tablets be carried by beekeepers if they are not aware of their allergy status.
Studies have also been conducted on the healing properties of raw honey. If applied to open sores and cuts that don’t stop bleeding, raw honey has been proven to offer positive results in creating a protective barrier over the applied area. The raw honey also soothes the skin and damaged tissue and assists in the regeneration and repair of the skin’s natural process. Honey can be especially useful on head wounds, seeping sores and hard to bandage areas. It can also offer positive healing effect to open wounds by rubbing raw honey directly into and around the wound and then covering with bandages.
Another name for raw honey is natural honey. Organic honey is harvested from organic farm produce. It is natural honey that requires certification to be registered as organic. Just like raw honey or natural honey is in high demand, organic honey is expensive to certify and grade and in turn, it commands among the highest prices in the industry. Niche markets exist for delis and cafés all around the world in high-income shop corner retailers.
Beeswax candles have been used to alleviate earache. A hallow beeswax candle is placed over the ear with the ache and lit. It is said that the suction helps to alleviate earache.