I always like to keep certain supplements on hand around this time of year, like vitamin C and elderberry syrup. With the kids being active and the travel I do, we are often exposed to germs. Propolis throat spray is a great (and tasty!) way to get more immune support.
I always keep several bottles of propolis spray at home. This way, it’s always handy when I need it, like when I have a sore throat or a stuffy nose. I like to buy it. This brand, But you can also make it yourself.
What is propolis?
Bees make propolis by mixing resin, wax, sap, and other substances. It also contains antioxidants such as flavonoids and polyphenols. It is essential for the survival of bees, protects the hive, strengthens its structure, and protects against invaders such as diseases and parasites. It provides all these functions to bees, but also provides amazing properties to humans.
Benefits of Propolis
Propolis contains a huge number of biologically active compounds. In other words, there are so many beneficial compounds that we have yet to discover. Here is a long list of those that are thought to be helpful:
- Antidiabetic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antioxidant
- Anticancer drug
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
- Heart disease
- Digestive disorders
- Protects the brain and heart.
- Regulates the immune system
- And there’s much more!
This podcast guest recommends using propolis instead of raw honey for seasonal allergies. The good news is that you can get the benefits of both with this DIY propolis spray!
Where to buy propolis spray
I’ve probably already convinced you to try propolis, but you probably don’t want to make it yourself. The kids and I love it. Beekeeper’s Naturals Propolis Spray (Use code wellnessmama for 20% off). Naturally gluten-free, preservative-free, and made with New Zealand honey. The brand also sells other bee products, such as tablets. And if your little ones don’t like the taste of propolis, they also offer a milder, sweeter children’s propolis.
I usually buy their products online, but you can also find them at certain health food stores. I’ve even seen them at Whole Foods.
How to make propolis glycerite
There are two ways to make this throat spray. You can buy pre-made propolis glycerite or make it yourself. Glycerite is similar to herbal tinctures, but uses vegetable glycerin instead of alcohol. However, it takes 6 weeks to make, so if you are in a hurry, buying it may be a better option.
Glycerin is safe for children, naturally sweet, and doesn’t burn or irritate the throat like alcohol. Here’s how to make bee propolis extract with glycerin:
- Add 2/3 cup Propolis Powder Pour into a 16 ounce glass bottle.
- In a separate bottle, combine 3/4 cup glycerin and 1/4 cup distilled water and stir well.
- Pour the glycerin/water mixture into the propolis powder and mix well.
- Cover the bottle and shake daily for 6 weeks.
- Strain the liquid through a coffee filter into a clean jar (this will take some time!). 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. If you have propolis glycerin, or purchased it, you are ready to make your throat spray!
DIY Propolis Throat Spray
This propolis honey throat spray is great for soothing an itchy throat. You can also use it daily to help your immune system perform at its best!
Produce: 1 oz.
-
Combine propolis, water, and honey in a small spray bottle and shake to mix.
-
If necessary, add more water, 1/8 teaspoon at a time, to reach the right consistency. The mixture should be thick enough to coat the neck, but thin enough to dispense from a spray bottle.
Store the mixture in the refrigerator. It will keep for several weeks.
If your honey is already thin, you may not need to add water. Try it without adding water first to see if it works. My honey came out of the spray bottle reluctantly, but it worked much better after adding a little water to thin it out. However, the more water you add, the shorter the shelf life, so use it sparingly!
How to use propolis throat spray
I like to use propolis spray at the first sign of illness. Just spray a few drops directly into the throat. Kids love it because it is delicious and sweet! This spray is great for traveling or whenever you need an immune boost. I always carry it with me on airplanes and it helps reduce inflammation.
Here’s how to stay healthy while flying:
Have you ever used propolis? What are your favorite bee products to keep on hand? Let us know in the comments!