Bee Propolis & Menopause
According to Mayo clinic, menopause is a biological process that signals the end of menstruation and fertility. Reduced levels of estrogen during menopause can bring many discomforts including hot flashes, insomnia, anxiety, depression, osteoporosis and skin problems, among others. Bee propolis is used in alternative medicine to bring relief to some of these symptoms
-
Bee Propolis
-
Bees make bee propolis, a resinous mixture out of tree buds, sap flows, and bee secretion to build their hive.
Properties
-
Bee propolis is antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-carcinogic. It is often used in chewing gum, cosmetics, creams, lozenges, and as a natural sealant and enamel hardener in dentistry, according to Health Line.
-
Estrogenic Effects
-
According to the Journal of Ethnopharmocology, clinical tests suggest that bee propolis produce estrogenic effects, which can help to alleviate symptoms of menopause when the estrogen level falls.
Phytoestrogen
-
Phytoestrogen can reduce risks of osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and cancer and can ameliorate hot flashes. Since bee propolis contains phytoestrogen, incorporating bee propolis supplement into your diet can help to relieve symptoms of menopause, according to Bee Propolis.
Expert Advice
-
Even though Mayo clinic suggests eating a diet high in phytoestrogens (bee propolis included) to relieve symptoms of menopause, it also states that many studies found them ineffective.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit abeilles image by Claudio Calcagno from Fotolia.com
