Bee pollen is the composition of different substances such as honey, flower pollen, wax, nectar, enzymes, and bee secretions. Honeybees collect this substance from plants and carry it to the beehive, where it is put in storage to be used as food for the honeybee family or colony.

Propolis is a resinous material manufactured by bees from buds of cone-bearing and poplar trees. Honeybees use propolis to construct their hives. There are various commercial applications of propolis such as medicines, health therapies, cosmetics etc.

Royal Jelly is a glutinous or jelly-like substance produced by honeybees. It is used to feed the queen bees. The primary benefit of royal jelly is its usage in dietary supplements, where it is used to treat different chronic diseases and physical ailments.

Let’s now discuss the similarities and differences between these three bee products!

Similarities and Differences

Bee pollen, propolis and royal jelly are all ingredients derived from bees that are often marketed as traditional medicines. While the three come from hives, they are produced and used in different ways by bees. Affirmations about their effects on human health are controversial and research on their effectiveness is inconsistent.

Bee pollen is known as “Food of Life” because it contains eighteen different amino acids and essential vitamins. It also contains copper, calcium, potassium, iron, phosphorous, carbohydrates, fatty acids, and proteins. Likewise, the composition of royal jelly contains an internal membrane protein known as acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that enables the nervous system to transmit important messages from one nerve cell to another. One similarity between bee pollen, royal jelly and propolis is that they all contain a wide variety of essential compounds such as vitamins, proteins, carbohydrates, and proteins.

Royal jelly and propolis have indisputable benefits for a sore throat and cough. The first one produces more of a balsamic function, and the second one is more antibacterial, ensuring that it does not go any further. In the respiratory tract, it is a natural and anti-flu antibiotic thanks to its anti-inflammatory and anesthetic action. While Royal jelly and pollen is best taken in the morning, the propolis can be taken at any time of the day, and several times if necessary.

Bee pollen is promoted as a nutritional supplement that is said to improve athletic endurance. It is also used to treat a variety of conditions, including constipation, aging and wound healing. Propolis is marketed as an anti-inflammatory with anti-tumor and anti-oxidant characteristics. Royal jelly has been studied for many of the same uses as bee pollen and propolis and is also considered capable of effecting lipid profiles and has neurological and estrogen effects.

Claims for nutritional benefits of bee pollen have not been verified by scientific research. Royal jelly has been observed to have some of its purported affects, but it has not been vigorously tested in clinical trials. Propolis has presented antimicrobial and anti-tumor properties in laboratory tests but has not been subjected to large-scale clinical trials.

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Keep reading this article to know the chemical properties, uses, and manufacturing of propolis by bees.

First, let’s talk about the chemical composition of propolis. It contains 50% resins and balsams, 25-35% wax, 10-15% aromatic and essential oils, and 5-10% pollen. It is important to know that the chemical composition of this resinous substance is highly variable due to variation or variability of different plant species that grow around the hive. In addition, the chemical composition of the substance also varies depending on illumination, seasonality, food availability, collector type, and activities developed during propolis exploitation.

In addition, it is rich in the most valuable trace elements (calcium, iron, potassium, silicon, phosphorus, zinc, magnesium, selenium, etc.), essential amino acids, which are the main element for building animal and vegetable proteins. It also contains vitamins (A, E, B1, B2, B6), which in combination with glycosides contribute to the revitalization of all major body systems and restores their proper functioning.

The extraction methods can significantly change the chemical composition of the substance. Various commercial products such as syrups, ampoules, capsules, and tablets are made with ethanol extracts of propolis. Menthol is used in research, experimental, and clinical trial studies. A number of research studies have confirmed the disease-fighting properties of propolis. Propolis has the following beneficial properties:

• Disinfectants
• Antibacterial
• Antitoxic
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antioxidant

Thanks to research conducted in recent years, modern medicine has significantly expanded the boundaries of the use of propolis. As an anesthetic, propolis is 3.5 times as high as cocaine and 5 times as high as novocaine. Therefore, propolis is widely used in dentistry, where it is applied 0.25% alcohol solution of propolis. It has been established that ingestion of propolis improves mood, memory, attention of the elderly. Propolis, therefore, is widely used in gerontology.

How Bees make Propolis?

Usually, a bee family collects 100-150 g of propolis per year. Bees capture resinous substances with their jaws and pull them up as a thread until it breaks. Then, with the claws of the legs, the bee removes a lump of gum from the jaws and places it in pollen baskets.

During the collection, the bee mixes resinous substances with the secretions of the maxillary glands. The collection of propolis lasts a long time, and the bees, the glue pickers, often interrupt it and return to the hive to replenish the honey goat. There is an opinion that in a beehive, a bee is never freed from propolis itself, it provides this work to beehives, sometimes waiting for them for a very long time (from an hour to two days).

The bulk of the propolis is collected from 10 to 15 hours, since at other times of the day, the surfaces from which the bees get resinous substances are too hard, brittle, and probably inaccessible for a mass gathering. The resinous substances that are exuded by plants contain volatile aromatic components (terpenes) that act on the hemo-receptors of the bee antennae.

Bees produce two forms of propolis: more liquid (70% resin of tree buds and bee gland secretions) of high quality and viscous (from pollen and wax) of low quality. Adding to the resin of plant buds the secret of their glands, the bees complicate the chemical composition of propolis, making it unique. Propolis is obtained during the initial digestion of bee pollen by bees.

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Hollywood is obsessed with the coconut oil. Many famous actresses are using the oil in different ways. Even Angelina Jolie starts her day with a spoonful of coconut oil every morning. You might have started using the oil in your kitchen, but you still do not know the amazing benefits coconut oil in cosmetics can bring. Here we have some of the amazing ways you can look more beautiful with the application of coconut oil.

Sooth dryness

If you have the parched hands because of continuous dishwashing, coconut oil can work wonders on your hands. After washing dishes, you can directly apply the organic coconut oil on your hands or keep a cream near the basic that has coconut oil in the ingredients. You will never have the dry, parched hands even after washing dishes.

Perfect cheekbone highlighter

A highlighter can make your tired face perk up. However, there is no need to invest in the chemical based products. There are many cosmetics with natural ingredients that use coconut oil has the main components. A little coconut oil on the cheekbone and you will never have to use the highlighter again. It will make your skin have a natural glow.

Shave your legs

For many years you have been using the conventional shaving creams to remove the hair from your legs and underarms. Guess what, it is time you start using coconut oil. It will provide the perfect greasy effect on the legs and antimicrobial properties will protect your skin from any side effects. There is no need to apply the chemicals to the body that you do not need.

Deep conditioner

Most of the shampoo manufacturing companies claim to have coconut oil in their products.

• The biggest reason behind it is that coconut oil has many beneficial effects and it can easily penetrate into your hair follicles and induce growth.
• You can even directly apply coconut oil to your hair and leave them overnight.
• Next day when you will shampoo your hair you will notice a visible difference.

Makeup remover

Waterproof makeup seems like a blessing but what to do when you have to remove it. with coconut oil, you will never have to struggle. It works perfectly on the waterproof mascara and the biggest advantage of the product is that it will help to improve the health and growth of the eyelashes that might have been damaged because of the mascara.

Body moisturizer

The coconut oil has special antiseptic and antimicrobial properties. When you will apply it to the body it will help to quickly heal the wounds. That is why coconut oil can be used as a natural moisturizer for the body.

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Just like coconut oil, butter in cosmetics is a famous ingredient. When both these items are combined the perfect soothing effects can be gained on the skin. It will make your skin baby soft and use the coconut oil in a decent quantity will help you keep your skin well hydrated and tight. In this way, the signs of aging will be delayed. There are many cosmetics that have coconut oil in them. While buying such items you have to assure that they have the recommended quantity of natural ingredient so you can have the benefits that come with it.

S. A.

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Argan oil

Argan oil is obtained from the kernels of the Argan tree. It is commonly found in Morocco. The fruit of the tree is very small and it consists of pulp and nut inside. The fruit is dried to assure that the pulp can be easily removed. The nuts are then broken to obtain the kernels. These are pressed by machines to extract the oil. Argain oil is called “زيت أركان” (zeit arkan) in arabic and huile d’argane in French. Here are some of the amazing benefits that you can get from Argan oil.

• A single drop of Argan oil on your face and hands can work as an excellent night moisturizer
• Use 2 to 4 drops of oil as a toner for the skin
• If you want to exfoliate the skin, you few drops of Argan oil in the brown sugar and apply it to your hands and face
• You can use it as the perfect remedy for acne. Apply a drop of Argan oil on the affected area and enjoy the amazing benefits
• Mix Argan oil with a carrier oil and use it as a whole-body moisturizer after a long bath
• One of the amazing benefits of Argan oil is that it can be used to treat burned parts of the body
• Take 2 to 3 drops of Argan oil and apply it on the areas of thighs and stomach as a remedy for the stretch marks.

Argan oil vs Coconut oil vs Jojoba oil

Most of the people are often confused that whether they should use Argan oil. coconut oil or jojoba oil for the hair. These three oils have shown many amazing benefits and here we have the complete comparison that will help you select the best item

Argan oil

• It is the perfect conditioner for the hair
• The biggest attraction of Argan oil is that you can leave it in your hair and it will not create a messy look
• Use 2 to 3 drops of oil to keep your hair in place. It can be used as the hair styling product
• Argan oil is the perfect frizz controller

Jojoba oil

• Jojoba oil can be used to control dandruff
• Hair loss prevention
• Frizz controller

Coconut oil

It is mostly used for its conditioning properties, but they are nothing as compared to the deep conditioning properties of Argan oil.

Different individuals get different results from the oils. It is important that you select the one that can suit your skin perfectly. Make sure you are not allergic to any of these.

How to select Argan oil

As you already know that several fake types of products are available in the market. So here we have few things you have to consider if you want to buy pure Argan oil.

Certified

The most important thing you have to consider is the certification. The items that have been certified as pure by authorities are real. Remember that if they will sell you fake items you can easily file a claim against them. Buying the certified Argan oil means that you are not investing your money in a fake item.

Dark bottle

While buying the Argan oil one of the most important things to remember is that it is never sold in the light bottle. There are certain chemicals in the oil that can be disturbed with light. This is the reason oil is always stored in dark bottles. If the retailer has light bottles it might be fake or diluted.

Cost

Do not forget to pay attention towards the cost of the product. Argan oil is very expensive. You cannot have the pure oil at a cheap price. So if there is a retailer claiming to provide you pure Argan oil at a cheap price remember that it is fake. If it is hard for you the afford the item, you can wait for the discount offers because you can buy the best items and save some money.

Scent

The best way to know that the Argan oil is pure is through its smell. It has a natural nutty smell. The aroma of the oil will go away after few minutes of contact with the skin. Argan oil absorbs quickly into the skin.

Remember that when the oil is deodorized it loses its aroma and most of the nutritional properties. You should never buy the product that has a strong smell because there are chances that it will not provide you the same benefits as the original Argan oil.

Texture and color

The texture of pure Argan oil is non-sticky, smooth and not too watery. When you apply it to the skin it will give you a soothing effect and the oil will disappear within seconds. The Argan oil used for a cosmetic purpose has golden yellowish shade and the one used for a culinary purpose has golden brown shade. If the color of the oil is extra light it has been mixed with other oil. you have to be extra careful with the selection of the oil.

Bottom line

It is important that when you are planning to buy Argan oil you should select your retailer wisely. Make sure that the person is providing your quality and pure product. you should check his reviews and contact the previous customers to get the perfect idea about his products and performance. Remember that if you truly want to enjoy the benefits that come with Argan oil it is better that you buy the purest form of the product.

S. A.

The post The Remarkable Wonders of Argan Oil You Should Know appeared first on Food Converter.

Oil and butter are considered the enemies when it comes to diet. We do not understand that butter and coconut oil are naturally produced and, so they have fewer side effects as compared to hydrogenated oils we are using. Here are some of the amazing benefits that you can get by including butter in food.

Lose all the extra pounds

Most of the people have a misconception that butter and coconut oil increase their weight. In a recent study, it has been demonstrated that using 15 to 30 grams of coconut oil (1-2 tablespoons) in diet will increase the calorie consumption of the body by 5%. It means that you will burn more fats and lose all the extra pounds.

Protection against diseases

The coconut oil is 12 carbon lauric acid that makes 50% of the fatty acids in the body. It is digested as the monolaurin. Both the elements work together to kill all the dangerous microorganisms in the body. In this way, you will be able to feel stronger and you will not have to deal with the diseases caused by microorganisms.

Reduce inflammation

In a recent study, it has been proved that the people who consume coconut oil have reduced inflammation and pain in the joint. It has a special ability to produce heat due to which chemicals that cause inflammation are removed from the body. That is why for many years coconut oil has been used to massage the tired bodies.

Boost immunity system

We prefer to consume sugar and sweet items that causes the growth of bad bacteria in the body. On the other hand, coconut oil has special antibacterial properties that will kill the bacteria that might be harmful to your body. In this way, it will make your immune system grow stronger, so you can easily fight off diseases.

Improve memory and brain function

In a recent study, it has been proved that coconut oil has a special element called MCAFs. It helps to improve the functionality of the brain. The element is easily absorbed by the body and enhances the memory in the older people. It will improve the efficiency of the brain and help you to concentrate on the given tasks.

Shield against cancer

There are two reasons why coconut oil is considered as the best source to prevent cancer.

1. It has ketones and cancer cells are glucose dependent. So they cannot generate energy
2. MCAFs in the coconut oil can kill the bacteria in the stomach that causes stomach cancer.

Bottom line

In the market, there are different varieties of coconut oil available. Some of them are natural and others have been artificially prepared. Make sure that the item you select is original because only then you will enjoy the benefits that come with it. Select essential coconut oil because it is available in the original form. Make sure that you add the recommended dose of butter in food.

S. A.

The post Use Coconut Oil in Food for Better and Healthy Future appeared first on Food Converter.

Chia seeds has become a popular superfood and its trending among health fanatics. Chia seeds are an edible plant (Sci.Salvia hispanica) that was originally grown in Mexico back in the Aztec and Mayan cultures. It was also quite an important food for these cultures. Chia actually means “strength”.

The Health Benefits

These seeds have many health benefits to offer. They are great for boosting energy levels and even improving metabolism. This makes it beneficial for weight loss and building muscles. Chia seeds are also perfect for the skin and have great anti-aging properties. They also help with promoting strong bones and good dental health. They are also great for digestion, this is because they’re a rich fiber source. They also help with balancing the sugar levels, which makes it beneficial for diabetics. You can also protect your cardiovascular health by including chia seeds in your diet.

Chia seeds are paleo-friendly and can be eaten by people who follow a paleo diet. However, it should be consumed in small doses and kept to a minimum.

The Best Ways To Enjoy them in Your Meal

There’s plenty of ways that you can use chia seeds. The most popular use for them is to add them to smoothies, they go perfectly with smoothies and smoothie bowls; even as a garnish. Another way to use them is to sprinkle over salads. Another popular recipe is chia puddings. To make chia puddings, the seeds need to be soaked in almond milk, coconut milk or any milk of your choice.

Allergies?

Allergies that are caused by chia seeds are actually uncommon. Some allergic reactions to chia seeds can be rashes, watery eyes and hives. Other allergic reactions are vomiting, diarrhea, breathing problems and swelling of the tongue.

What Chia seeds are good for?

Chia is a great superfood for pregnant women. They make up for all the nutrients that are lost during pregnancy and they’re also great for the baby’s development. They are also great for boosting energy levels during pregnancy. They also a high source of Omega-3 and they help with controlling the blood sugar levels.

They’re great for lowering the cholesterol levels. This is because they contain soluble fiber, insoluble fiber and unsaturated fatty acids. The great news is, you also don’t need to eat them in large doses.

Chia is beneficial for weight loss. This is because of the fiber that they contain. The perfect recipe for weight loss is to soak two tablespoons in a glass of water. Stir the seeds in and leave it to stand for a few minutes. Avoid leaving it to soak for too long as they will start to bloat in the water.

Basil Seeds vs Chia Seeds

It’s undoubtedly that both these seeds are good for your health. However, they have different health benefits to offer. Between the two, chia is definitely the winner. Chia seeds have more benefits to offer. They’re a rich source of protein, calcium, antioxidants and other vital nutrients. Basil seeds, on the other hand, are a rich iron source. Basil seeds are also a lot larger than chia seeds. Basil seeds are also more difficult to find. Therefore, this makes them more expensive than chia seeds.

Nutritional Values for Chia Seeds vs Basil Seeds

Data from ndb.nal.usda.gov and Turkmaria seeds

S. M. V.

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Acai is pronounced as “ah-sigh-hee”. Acai berries have numerous benefits. These delicious berries have also become a popular superfood and great add-on to your smoothies and smoothie bowls. They’re also beneficial for weight loss and contain minimal sugar. Acai berries are also high in iron, vitamin A, calcium and fiber. They’re also rich anti-oxidants. They help with arthritis, obesity, erectile dysfunctions, neurological disorders, inflammation and allergies. Acai berries are most probably one of the healthiest berries in the world.

What Are Acai Berries and Where Do They Come From?

Acai are a reddish-purple like fruit, which are around an inch long. They are native to South America and they’re derived from the acai palm tree.

The Health Benefits of Acai Berries and How They Work As A Beauty Product

1. Skin Care:

Acai oil is actually used in a couple of cosmetics and beauty products. This is due to their richness in anti-oxidants. They have anti-aging properties. Some shampoos and conditioners also contain acai berries. They revive your skin and heal damaged cells. They also rich in vitamin A, B, C and E. They’re also great for treating acne. Acai berries also keep your skin hydrated and great news ladies, they also keep the lips soft!

2. Immune Booster:

Berries are immune booster because of their anti-oxidant properties. They also prevent cancerous cells from forming and progressing into cancer. They’re also great immune booster because they contain vitamin C.

3. Energy Boosters:

The great news about acai berries is they’re great energy boosters to help you get through the day and they help you sleep better at night! What makes them great energy providers is due to their richness in iron, Omegas 3, 6 and 9. At night it helps with the blood circulation, by doing this, it helps with improving the sleep.

4. Digestive Health:

Acai berries are great for digestion. This makes them the perfect ingredient to add to your breakfast. They help with both diarrhea and constipation. Also, if you’re planning to detox and cleanse, then you might want to add these berries to your diet.

Acai Supplements

Acai supplements are considered a superfood and they’re doing incredibly well on the market. There’s a variety of different acai powder and capsule supplements that you can purchase online from stores like Amazon. Acai powders are also a popular ingredient in acai bowls. Acai supplements still consist of the very same nutrients that the unprocessed berries have. During the process of the acai supplements, the berries are usually dehydrated and then left to freeze before they turned into powder.

Acai Berries Nutrition Facts

Data from NutritionData

Acai Berries vs. Blueberries vs. Goji Berries

All three berries have similar health benefits. They are rich anti-oxidants. However, blueberries are the winners. They contain a higher level of anti-oxidants. Blueberries are also less costly than acai berries. Goji berries are also excellent immune boosters and help with fighting off cancerous cells, but when it comes to weight loss, acai berries are definitely the winners.

Thinking of Growing Acai Berries?

It’s totally possible. You can purchase fresh acai palm trees and when they’re clean, soak them into a container for about 24 hours before planting them. You can find full instructions here: how to grow acai fruit.

S. M. V.

Photos: Ministério do Desenvolvimento Social e Agrário Brasil (CC)

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The Best 15 Superfoods

1. Turmeric

One of the oldest superfoods around. They also possess many health benefits. They great inflammatory. They also help with arthritis and also prevent cancer.

2. Cinnamon

Probably the best one of all. They enhance and improve the taste of everything! From pancakes to smoothies, they go so perfectly. They are also a rich anti-oxidant and they are an anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic and an anti-septic.

3. Blueberries

So, delicious and good for you! They prevent cardiovascular diseases and improve the memory. They also assist with relaxing the walls of the blood vessels. By doing this it prevents the arteries from hardening.

4. Green Tea

Green tea has a wide variety of health benefits. They’re beneficial for cardiovascular health, neurological health and it’s even beneficial for dental health.

5. Broccoli

Broccoli is another great superfood. For people who suffer with high blood pressure, this is an ideal superfood for you. It’s also another great superfood for preventing any cardiovascular diseases.

6. Kale

Apparently, this green veggie is a richer anti-oxidant than the other green veggies. There’s also lots of different ways to use them.

7. Chia

Chia is loaded with the fatty acids that our bodies require and they’re a great source of calcium.

8. Strawberries

Strawberries are one of the richest sources of Vitamin C. They also improve your vision and they help with repairing and building the body tissues.

9. Almonds

These are great brain foods and they also a rich source of calcium, iron and magnesium. Need to weight almonds precisely, but you don’t have a scale?

10. Beets

Beets help with strengthening the organs. They’re also packed with nutrients, minerals and vitamins.

11. Garlic

Besides the fact that it helps with high blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases, it’s also great for sexual health; for both men and women.

12. Oatmeal

Oatmeal makes the perfect breakfast. It’s great for digestion and it also improves the metabolism.

13. Pistachios

They’re loaded with potassium, it’s even equivalent to a banana. They also high in fiber and protein.

14. Watermelon

The best summer fruit! They are high in vitamin C and great for keeping you hydrated.

15. Cranberries

Cranberries have anti-inflammatory properties and they also great for bladder issues and even oral health.

Can Superfoods Fight off Cancer?

Superfoods do generally help with the prevention of cancer and it assists with the cancer cells. However, its uncertain as to whether they actually help with curing and fighting off cancer completely.

Some More Superfood’s Benefits

Superfoods actually do aid in weight loss. If you’re looking to shed off some weight, then superfoods are the solution. Leafy greens, oatmeal, berries, chia and green tea are the best superfoods for weight loss.

Superfoods are great for diabetics. These superfoods are the best for diabetes: berries, watermelon, kale, nuts, seeds, oranges and other citrus fruits. Non-starchy vegetables are good for diabetics. People often see diabetes as a death sentence, which is in fact not true. Diabetes can be managed with the correct foods and a healthy lifestyle is essential for helping with it.

Smoothies – An Easy Way to Add Super Foods to your diet

Superfoods make the perfect ingredients in smoothies. Smoothies are also an easy and sneaky way to get these nutritious foods into your diet and they’re delicious! Chia seeds, nuts, leafy greens, berries etc, make the perfect smoothie ingredients. They enhance the taste of the smoothie and make it super nutritious.

What about Green Superfood?

Green superfood has become quite popular on the market. They are a blend of the most powerful and nutritious greens. These green superfoods have amazing health benefits. They’re great for detoxification, boosting the energy levels and also boosting the immune system.

S. M. V.

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