Why do we need bees? I mean they sting us, build nests where we don’t see them, (ask the Boy Friend who ran into a hive while mowing the lawn) torment us while camping, (that would be the Yellow Jackets) or just flutter about like the woolly bumble bee. He doesn’t really do a whole lot either. So with that in mind, why don’t we just get a big ‘ol can of Raid and get rid of them?
Well for one reason, the make up and beauty producers would really get mad. Not only would we hurt their bottom line, but where would we get all of those “organic” products from? Bee products can not be artificially made because bees are unique in what they do.
Bees produce, propolis, (we’ll get to that in a moment), Royal Jelly (when you’re a princess and want to feel like a queen), bees wax (which is highly flammable), bee venom, bread, soap, facial lotions, lip balm, honey, medicinal solutions, all kinds of things. BUT! (yes, there is always a but). The Propolis, which is a by-product of the bee’s saliva and tid bits from trees and plants, is very therapeutic to the hive. The resinous mixture is used to seal cracks and gaps in the hive which of course protects it from lizards, snakes and whatever else may want to stick its paw in there. The Egyptians used the Propolis in its mummification process while the Greeks and Assyrians loved it for its healing properties for wounds and even tumors. Studies have shown that Propolis can help in combating cancer, treats Candida (yeast) Symptoms, stops herpes (cold sores) reproduction, helps to fight off colds and even parasites.
Royal Jelly, which feeds the next generation of nurse bees and princesses is the “Brain Nourishment”. You can use it daily to get a motivational boost “the all natural way”. It has been shown that Royal Jelly helps boost the Immune System, counters allergic reactions, contains beneficial probiotics, eases menopause and post menopausal symptoms, improves collagen levels, and helps healing wounds. Studies have shown that it MAY also help with osteoporosis and possibly Alzheimers. I’m sure there are more medicinal uses that we haven’t found yet .
Bee Pollen, which feeds the hive and keeps it running , is a vitamin boost, aids in muscle recovery, energy levels and has lots of proteins, minerals, lipids and fatty acids, enzymes, carotenoids and bioflavonoids. It has powerful antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties that strengthen the capillaries, reduce inflammation, stimulate the immune system and lower cholesterol levels naturally. Known as a “superfood”, bee pollen can be taken daily and mixed with smoothies, yogurt, butter and toast or even Nutella.
Honey, the one thing that Bees are most known for, is rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and magical baking properties. Honey is also useful in wound care. In the early days of medicine, physicians used to mix honey and water to keep wounded men hydrated and to keep them from going into shock. Oddly enough, we use something similar to cure hangovers today. Really they could just take a glass of water with honey in it to cure hangovers! Honey is used as an energy boost, sleep aid , hair conditioner and as a facial wash.
Beauty products made from bee products are all over the place in grocery stores and pharmacies. Lip balms, make-up, facial cleansers, sun tan lotion, hand lotion, you name it, it has a bee on it.
So this is just a short list of what Bees do for us, but what do we do for them? Why should we care about their health and well being? Are they any different from cows, pigs, sheep, goats, and horses? You’ll have to read next weeks blog to find out!
Bee Happy!
Bee Proactive 