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
- Honeycomb
- Beeswax
- Hive
Usage Notes
Propolis has antimicrobial properties and is also used by humans in various traditional medicines and health supplements.