Propolis

Pronunciation
/PROH-puh-lis/
Category
Substance
Singular
Propolis
Plural
Propolises

Definition

A resinous mixture that honey bees collect from tree buds, sap flows, or other botanical sources, which they use to seal and protect their hives.

Etymology

From Greek 'pro-', meaning 'before' or 'in front of', and 'polis', meaning 'city' or 'community', referring to the substance's protective function at the hive's entrance.

Example

Bees use propolis to seal cracks in their hive, providing extra defense against predators and infections.

Synonyms

Related Terms

Usage Notes

Propolis has antimicrobial properties and is also used by humans in various traditional medicines and health supplements.