Apitherapy Pickens SC

Venom therapy represents just one form of apitherapy. Other bee products have potent healing properties as well. Here’s the rundown:

HONEY: With its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and immune-stimulating properties, honey can help treat third- and fourth-degree burns when applied topically, according to extensive clinical research. It also relieves coughs and the flu when eaten. Be sure, however, to use raw honey and not pasteurized and, thus, inert varieties.

POLLEN: Pollen contains all the essential amino acids as well as disease-fighting antioxidants, says Frederique Keller of the American Apitherapy Society. It helps regulate appetite, reduce allergies, and increase energy. The fresher the pollen, the better, so try to buy local, nonpasteurized pollen. Mix one gram into food and drinks.

PROPOLIS: Bees make propolis from tree resin and use it as an antiseptic “glue” to seal the hive and protect it from infections. Often taken in tablets or tinctures, propolis has antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties, making it a good choice for treating colds, the fl u, wounds, yeast infections, hemorrhoids, and fungal infections. “New research has come out showing it has strong antitumor activity as well,” says Keller. “I have all my patients with cancer taking 16 grams of propolis a day.”

ROYAL JELLY: This is the food of the queen bees, who live for up to five years, compared to the four to six weeks of a worker bee. Secreted from the mandibular glands of the worker bee, this elixir promotes youthfulness, fertility, and rejuvenation, says Keller. It also helps build and maintain bone, blood, skin, and brain cells. “All women older than 40 should be taking 3,000 mg a day,” Keller says. The downside: Royal jelly costs more than other beehive products because it’s the most difficult to collect. You can also buy fresh royal jelly, though it’s more perishable.

For more info, go to the American Apitherapy Society’s website, www.apitherapy.org .

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