I always like to have certain supplements ready during this time of year, such as vitamin C and elderberry syrup. With all of the children’s activities and traveling I do, we’re often exposed to germs. Propolis throat spray is a wonderful (and tasty!) way to boost our immune system.
I constantly keep several bottles of propolis spray at home. This ensures it’s readily available whenever I feel a sore throat or stuffy sinuses coming on. I love purchasing this specific brand, but it’s also possible to make it yourself.
What is Propolis?
Bees produce propolis using a combination of resin, beeswax, sap, and other materials. It contains antioxidants like flavonoids and polyphenols. Essential for their survival, it helps protect the hive and strengthens the structure, while also defending against invaders such as diseases and parasites. Moreover, propolis has remarkable properties beneficial for humans.
Benefits of Propolis
Propolis contains numerous biologically active compounds. In simpler terms, it has many beneficial properties that have yet to be fully discovered. The extensive list of potential benefits 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!
A podcast guest recommends opting for propolis instead of raw honey for managing seasonal allergies. The advantage is that with this DIY propolis spray, you can enjoy the benefits of both!
Where to Buy Propolis Spray
If I’ve convinced you to try propolis but you’d rather not make it yourself, my kids and I love the Beekeeper’s Naturals Propolis spray. It’s naturally gluten-free, contains no preservatives, and is made with New Zealand honey. This brand also offers other bee-related products, such as lozenges. Additionally, if your little ones don’t favor the taste of propolis, they even provide a kid’s version that is milder and sweeter.
Typically, I purchase their products online, but you can find them at select health food stores as well. I’ve also seen them available at Whole Foods.
How to Make a Propolis Glycerite
There are two methods to create this throat spray. You can either buy a ready-made propolis glycerite or prepare your own. Glycerites are similar to herbal tinctures, but they use vegetable glycerin instead of alcohol. They take about 6 weeks to make, so purchasing it may be a quicker option if you’re pressed for time.
Glycerites are safe for children, naturally sweet, and won’t irritate or burn the throat like alcohol-based products. Here’s how to make a bee propolis extract with glycerin:
- Place 2/3 cup of propolis powder in a 16-ounce glass jar.
- In a separate jar, mix 3/4 cup glycerin with 1/4 cup distilled water and stir well.
- Pour the glycerin/water mixture over the propolis powder and stir to combine.
- Seal the jar and shake it daily for 6 weeks.
- Strain the liquid through a coffee filter into a clean jar (this step might take some time). You may need to repeat this process twice to completely remove all the powder.
You can easily adjust this recipe according to your preferences. Once you have your propolis glycerite or have purchased it, you’re ready to make the throat spray!
DIY Propolis Throat Spray
This propolis honey throat spray is excellent for easing scratchy throats. It can also be used daily to help maintain optimal immune system function!
Active Time: 3 mins
Total Time: 3 mins
Yield: 1 ounce
Author: Katie Wells
Instructions:
- Combine the propolis, water, and honey in a small spray bottle and shake to mix.
- Add more water, 1/8 teaspoon at a time if needed for the right consistency. The mixture should be thick enough to coat the throat but thin enough to be sprayed out of the bottle.
Store the mixture in the fridge. It should last for several weeks.
If your honey is already quite thin, you may not need to add water. You can try using it as is first to see if it works. Mine was a bit reluctant to come out of the sprayer but worked much better when thinned with a bit of water. The more water you add, the shorter its shelf life, so use it sparingly!
How to Use Propolis Throat Spray
I prefer using the propolis spray at the first hint of illness. Just spray a few squirts directly into the throat. The kids enjoy it as well because it tastes good and is sweet! This spray is also useful when traveling or anytime you need an extra immune boost. I always carry some on flights to help reduce inflammation.
Have you ever tried propolis before? What are your favorite bee products to keep on hand? Leave a comment and let me know!
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