I always like to keep certain supplements on hand this time of year, like vitamin C and elderberry syrup. With all the kids’ activities and traveling I do, we’re often exposed to germs. Propolis throat spray is a great (and tasty!) way to get a little extra immune support.
I always keep several bottles of propolis spray in my house. This way, I always have it on hand when I need it, like if I feel like my throat is hurting or my sinuses are congested. I love buying this brand, but you can also make your own.
What is propolis?
Bees make propolis from a mixture of resin, beeswax, sap, and other substances. It also contains antioxidants such as flavonoids and polyphenols. It is vital for their survival, helping to protect the hive and strengthen the structure. It also protects against invaders such as diseases and parasites. Not only does it do all of that for the bees, but it also has amazing properties for humans.
Benefits of propolis
Propolis has countless biologically active compounds. In other words, it has so many benefits that we haven’t discovered them all yet. The long list of benefits it is believed to have includes:
- Antidiabetic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antioxidant
- Anticancer
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- COPD
- Heart disease
- Digestive disorders
- Protects the brain and heart.
- Modulates the immune system
- And much more!
This podcast guest recommends using propolis instead of raw honey for seasonal allergies. The good news is that with this homemade propolis spray you can enjoy the benefits of both!
Where to buy propolis spray
Maybe I’ve already convinced you to try propolis, but you don’t want to make it yourself. The kids and I love this propolis spray from Beekeeper’s Naturals (use code wellnessmama for 20% off). It’s naturally gluten-free, has no preservatives, and is made with New Zealand honey. This brand also has other bee products, like lozenges. And if your little ones don’t like the taste of propolis, they also offer a kids’ propolis that’s milder and sweeter.
I usually buy their products online, but you can also find them in some health food stores. I’ve also seen them at Whole Foods.
How to make propolis glycerin
There are two ways to prepare this throat spray. You can buy a ready-made propolis glycerite or make it yourself. Glycerites are similar to herbal tinctures, but instead of using alcohol, vegetable glycerin is used. However, it takes six weeks to prepare them, so if you are in a hurry, buying them may be the best option.
Glycerites are safe for children, naturally sweet, and do not burn or irritate the throat like alcohol. Here’s how to make a bee propolis extract with glycerin:
- Place 2/3 cup of propolis powder in a 16-ounce glass jar.
- Combine 3/4 cup glycerin with 1/4 cup distilled water in a separate container and stir well.
- Pour the glycerin and water mixture over the propolis powder and stir to combine.
- Place the lid on the jar and shake it daily for 6 weeks.
- Strain the liquid through a coffee filter into a clean container (this will take a while!). You may need to do this step twice to remove all the powder.
You can easily double or halve this recipe depending on your preference. Once you have the propolis glycerite or have purchased it, you are ready to make the throat spray!
Homemade propolis spray for the throat
This honey and propolis throat spray is ideal for relieving throat irritation. You can also use it daily to help your immune system function at its best.
Produce: 1 ounce
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Combine propolis, water and honey in a small spray bottle and shake to combine.
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Add more water, 1/8 teaspoon at a time if necessary to achieve the right consistency. The mixture should be thick enough to coat your throat, but thin enough to flow out of the atomizer.
Store the mixture in the refrigerator. It should last several weeks.
If your honey is already a bit runny, you may not need to add water. You can try without it at first to see if that works. Mine came off the sprayer with reluctance, but it worked much better when I diluted it with a bit of water. However, the more water you add, the shorter the shelf life will be, so use sparingly!
How to use propolis spray for throat
I like to use propolis spray at the first sign of illness. All you have to do is spray it directly into the throat. Kids also like it because it tastes good and is sweet. This spray is also good when traveling or anytime you need an extra immune boost. I always carry some with me when I’m on a flight to help keep inflammation down.
Here are more ways to stay healthy while flying.
Have you ever used propolis? What are your favorite beekeeping products to have on hand? Leave a comment and let me know!
