Honeybees are amazing creatures.
In addition to honey, they are the source of several other products with a host of healthful properties. At Grand Central Honey, we are often asked about these products and their benefits and because of their powerful health and healing properties, we make sure we’re stocked with propolis, royal jelly, and pollen. These cousins of honey are lesser known, so here is a brief overview of each. Though they are all unique, all three have antioxidant, antibacterial, and nutritional properties.
A plethora of detailed information exists about them online – scientists, physicians, other health practitioners and others have weighed in, with differing opinions about the efficacy and benefits of these products for humans. At the store, we advise any clients who are unsure – for any reason – about using them, to consult their health practitioner before buying.
Propolis
Propolis is a waxy/resinous substance which is a mixture of beeswax, bee saliva, and other compounds. It is used in the hive like a super-nutritious “spackle” – it seals up any gaps so that it is difficult for any predators to sneak into the hive, and helps keep the bees safe from pathogens.
It has antioxidant properties – it is antifungal, antibacterial, aids in relief of dental issues, yeast infections, and cold sores, as well as lessening the misery of the common cold and sore throats. We carry propolis tincture as well as propolis and herb spray at the store, as well as raw honey with propolis.
Royal Jelly
Royal jelly has an incredibly nutritious composition. This is what worker bees feed the queen bee. Research also suggests that royal jelly also has properties that support health in humans. It is often used to lessen symptoms of menopause, and it is packed with vitamins, minerals, carbs and protein. Some evidence also indicates that royal jelly is effective to use for skincare. At Grand Central Honey, we stock royal jelly in its natural form (which needs to be refrigerated) and freeze dried in capsules. It is packed with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties.
Pollen
This is a hive product containing pollen from flowers, nectar, and bee salivary secretions. Pollen is a nutritional powerhouse – it contains plentiful carbs, proteins, lipids, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and is widely considered to be a “perfectly complete food.”
It is used to fight inflammation and, like propolis and royal jelly, has antioxidant properties. At Grand Central Honey, we carry jars of pollen (it is in the form of small sprinkles) as well as pollen encased in capsules. Use pollen sprinkled into a smoothie, in yogurt and oatmeal, and as a salad topper.
Consider this an invitation to come to Grand Central Honey – we will be happy to show you these products! Visit iherb.com for a quick reference chart for the properties of these three incredible gifts from the honeybee.
Cindy McCartney, owner of Grand Central Honey, invites you to experience a truly interactive, informative, and delicious experience with some fun tastings. Everything in the store is dedicated to the amazing contributions honeybees make to our world by pollinating our food sources. Grand Central Honey vets each brand they carry to ensure customers are buying pure honey. They are located in Naples at 4444 Tamiami Trail N., Suite 2, and open 11 am to around 5 pm Tuesday through Saturday.
Visit: grandcentralhoney.com and find them on Instagram and Facebook.