I always keep supplements like Vitamin C and elderberry syrup on hand during this time of year, as kids’ activities and travel often expose them to germs, and propolis throat spray is a great (and tasty!) way to give them an extra immunity boost.
I always keep a few bottles of propolis spray at home so I can use it whenever I need it, like when I get a sore throat or stuffy nose. I love buying propolis spray. This brand, You can also make it yourself.
What is Propolis?
Bees make propolis by mixing resin, beeswax, and sap. It also contains antioxidants such as flavonoids and polyphenols. It is essential for the survival of bees, protecting the hive and strengthening its structure. It also protects against invaders such as diseases and parasites. Not only does it do all these things for bees, it also has amazing properties for humans.
Benefits of Propolis
Propolis contains a myriad of bioactive compounds. In other words, there are so many beneficial ingredients in propolis, all of which have yet to be discovered. The long list of things propolis is thought to help with includes:
- Antidiabetic drugs
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antioxidants
- Anticancer drugs
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
- Heart disease
- Digestive disorders
- Protects the brain and heart.
- Regulates the immune system
- And much more!
Our podcast guest recommends using propolis over raw honey for seasonal allergies, and the good news is that with this DIY propolis spray you can get the best of both worlds.
Where to buy propolis spray
I may have already convinced you to try propolis, but you don’t want to make it yourself. My kids and I love this. Beekeeper Naturals Propolis Spray (Use code wellnessmama for 20% off.) It’s gluten-free, preservative-free, and made with New Zealand honey. The brand also has other bee products, like lozenges, and a kids’ version of propolis that’s milder and sweeter if your kids don’t like the taste of propolis.
I usually buy their products online, but you can also find them on the shelves of certain health food stores. I’ve even seen them at Whole Foods.
How to make propolis glycerin
There are two ways to make this throat spray: you can either buy pre-made propolis glycerin or make your own. The glycerin is similar to the herbal tincture, but uses vegetable glycerin instead of alcohol. It takes six weeks to make, though, so if you’re in a hurry, you might be better off buying it.
Glycerin is child-safe, naturally sweet, and won’t irritate or burn your throat like alcohol can. Here’s how to make bee propolis extract with glycerin:
- 2/3 cup Propolis Powder Comes in a 16 oz glass bottle.
- In a separate jar, mix 3/4 cup glycerin and 1/4 cup distilled water together thoroughly.
- Pour the glycerin and water mixture over the propolis powder and stir to combine.
- Cap the jar and shake daily for 6 weeks.
- Strain the liquid through a coffee filter into a clean jar (this will take a little time), you may have to do this step twice to get all of the powder out.
You can double or halve the amounts in this recipe depending on your preference. Once you have your propolis glycerin on hand or have purchased it, you are ready to make your throat spray.
Make your own propolis throat spray
This Propolis Honey Throat Spray is perfect for soothing a sore throat and with daily use will help keep your immune system working at its best.
yield: 1 Ounce
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Combine the propolis, water, and honey in a small spray bottle and shake to mix.
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Add more water, 1/8 teaspoon at a time, as needed to get the right consistency. The mixture should be thick enough to coat your throat, yet thin enough to come out of a spray bottle.
Store the mixture in the refrigerator and it will last for a few weeks.
If your honey is already diluted, you don’t need to add water. Try it without water first and see if it works. My honey was hard to get out of the sprayer, but adding a little water to dilute it worked much better. Be sure to use a small amount, though, as adding water will shorten its shelf life.
How to use propolis throat spray
I like to use propolis spray at the first sign of illness. Just spritz a few sprays directly on the throat. It tastes nice and sweet, so my kids love it. This spray is also useful when traveling or when you want to boost your immunity. I always have it with me when I fly to reduce inflammation.
Here are some other ways to stay healthy while flying:
Have you ever used propolis before? What are your favorite bee products to keep on hand? Leave a comment and let me know!