By Melissa, formulation chemist, Lone Tree Tallow
Short answer: Propolis is the resin bees make to seal and protect their hive. People have put it on their skin for thousands of years. In a modern balm, it helps hold moisture in on dry, cracked skin and brings antioxidant compounds along with it.
Part of our Ancient Remedies series.
What is bee propolis?
Bees gather sticky resin from tree buds and bark. They blend it with wax and use it to seal every crack in the hive.
It keeps the hive protected. Beekeepers call it bee glue.
The name is Greek. Pro means before. Polis means city. The defense in front of the city.
How was propolis used in ancient times?
- Egypt: used in embalming.
- Greece and Rome: physicians and writers described it for the skin.
- Europe: folk traditions kept it in use for centuries.
We did not invent this. We just stopped subtracting it from skincare.
What does propolis do for skin?
- Helps a balm hold moisture in.
- Comforts rough, dry, chapped skin.
- Brings antioxidant support.
The because: propolis is rich in flavonoids and phenolic compounds, the same antioxidant families found in plants. Researchers study it for exactly those compounds.
Is propolis the same as honey or beeswax?
No. Three different things from the same hive.
- Honey comes from flower nectar.
- Beeswax is made by the bees themselves.
- Propolis is tree resin the bees collect and work.
Who should skip propolis?
Anyone allergic to bee products or tree resins. If you are not sure, patch test on your inner arm first.
Where do we use propolis?
In Field Repair Tallow Balm. Propolis works with pine resin and beeswax to form a breathable seal over tallow and mango butter.
The benefit: soft hands after a day in the wind.
More in Bee Propolis + Pine Resin for Working Hands.
Frequently asked questions
What is bee propolis? A resin bees collect from trees and use to seal and protect the hive.
What are the skin benefits of propolis? It helps balms hold moisture in, comforts dry and chapped skin, and brings antioxidant compounds.
Is propolis good for cracked hands? In a rich balm, yes. It helps form a breathable seal so moisture stays put on hard-working hands.
Is propolis vegan? No. It is a bee product.
Who should avoid propolis? People allergic to bee products or tree resins. Patch test first if unsure.
Honoring the balance of nature, craft, and chemistry.
Lone Tree products are cosmetics intended to support the look and feel of skin. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
