What is Apitherapy?
Honey is a natural product that bees produce from flower nectar or honeydew. In most cases, people use it for food. It is often used as a substitute for sugar, but honey is also valued for its extraordinary taste. Very importantly, however, it can also be used medicinally.
History of Apitherapy
The extraordinary properties of honey have been known to mankind for centuries. The ancients already knew that it was a product with great health-promoting benefits. The Egyptians, Assyrians, Greeks and Chinese commonly used honey. They used it externally to treat wounds, pus lesions, acne and burns of all kinds. In addition, honey was used internally for various ailments, such as those related to the liver. Interestingly, the ancient Egyptians even used honey to embalm corpses.
Modern Apitherapy
Nowadays, we know much more about the positive properties of bee products. This has resulted in the development of many methods for their use. A collection of these methods, categorised as natural medicine, is apitherapy. These methods make use of bee products, i.e. primarily honey, but also propolis, feather, royal jelly and bee venom. The modern idea of this type of treatment originated in what is now Russia and ancient China. The Austrian physician Philipp Terč popularised it when he began using bee products to treat rheumatism in 1888.
What products are used in Apitherapy?
Honey
The best known and most widely used bee product is honey. Apart from its taste, it also has a strong effect on the body. It has a very good effect on the circulatory, urinary, respiratory and digestive systems. The use of honey is recommended not only for food poisoning, but also for colds. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It participates in the formation of cellular immunity and T-lymphocyte responses. Enhances mitogenesis of peripheral lymphocytes, increases the ratio of T-helper cells and T-cytotoxic cells, and enhances macrophage antimicrobial and tumour cell counteractions. Reduces the number of Tc cells.
Bee venom
Bee venom is used to treat arthritis, rheumatic and autoimmune diseases, and stimulates the immune system by activating immune cells and stimulating cytokine production. Many studies also indicate that bee venom has anticancer properties, as it induces apoptosis (cell death) in cancer cells.
Propolis
Propolis, or bee putty, is one of the oldest bee products used for healing. It is a sticky, very thick substance that bees use to line the inside of the hive. This product has extremely powerful health-promoting effects. It prevents upper respiratory tract infections, has an antiseptic effect and helps to deal with urinary tract infections.
Royal jelly
Royal jelly is a nutrient-rich substance that bees produce to feed the queen. Many experts recommend using this substance prophylactically, as it strengthens the body and provides many important micronutrients.
Beeswax
Beeswax is used in cosmetics and skin care products for its moisturising and protective properties.
Mignonette
Feather is a real bomb of various nutrients and vitamins that comprehensively nourishes the human body. It has been proven that the use of moult has a very positive effect on brain function. It improves memory, concentration and general intellectual performance.
Honeys used in apitherapy
Bees produce many different types of honey, depending on where the apiary is set up and what plants are available to the insects. The different varieties have slightly different uses in apitherapy.
Multi-flower honey
It is used for circulatory problems. It protects the heart and the entire circulatory system.
Buckwheat honey
Has a strong detoxifying effect on the body. Counteracts atherosclerosis and significantly improves liver function. Has a high antioxidant content.
Manuka honey
It is known for its antibacterial and regenerative properties. It is often used to treat wounds and skin infections. It is recommended for stomach ulcers and inflammation of the digestive system.
Acacia honey
It is used to treat digestive problems and to strengthen the immune system.
Lavender honey
Has calming properties and has a positive effect on the quality of sleep.
Lime honey
Supports the immune system. Has an antipyretic and diuretic effect. Stabilises blood sugar levels.
Summary
Honey and other bee products are widely used in apitherapy. Thanks to their health-promoting properties, they can support the treatment of various ailments, strengthen the immune system and improve the overall condition of the body. Regular use of these natural remedies can provide numerous health benefits.