With all the above-mentioned therapeutic properties, propolis is thus an effective natural aid in many situations. It is used for:

• Increasing the body’s immune defences.
• Boosting resistance to aggressors, free radicals and germs.
• Fighting infection of all kinds and inflammatory reactions.
• Helping to combat ENT problems, particularly sore throat, nasopharyngitis and sinusitis.
• Enhancing the effects of commonly prescribed anti-fungal treatments and antibiotics.

1) Holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum)

Holy basil, also known as Ocimum tenuiflorum or tulsi, is referred to in Ayurveda as the ‘Queen of Herbs’. It has been shown to be useful for treating various forms of stress, overcoming feelings of exhaustion, relieving depression and improving memory. This ‘Queen of Herbs’ also has an antimicrobial effect. (14) (15) (16) (17)

2) Astragalus

Astragalus is a medicinal plant which has been used for thousands of years. Adaptogenic and particularly invigorating, astragalus offers immunomodulatory, antioxidant, anti-cancer, energising and stimulating benefits. Various studies have shown that it helps combat fatigue, stress and anxiety. This perennial herb can also help you top energy. (18) (19) (20) (21) (22) (23) (24) (25)

3) Black elderberry (Sambucus nigra)

Adaptogenic Potion also contains extract of black elderberry, or Sambucus nigra. The flowers, berries and leaves of this shrub have been used therapeutically for centuries in Europe and what was Asia Minor. Black elderberry, which has antiviral and antimicrobial properties, provides excellent support against colds and flu. (26) (27)

4) Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

With its distinctive yellow-orange colour, the adaptogen Curcuma longa is native to India and south-east Asia. It’s one of the key spices used to make curries. This important Ayurvedic plant is recognised as having antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-infectious properties which are believed to be related to its main polyphenolic pigment: curcumin. (28) (29)

5) Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Also used for hundreds of years in traditional Hindu medicine, ginger is recognised as an adaptogen with powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-tumour effects. Some studies have suggested it may also help reduce cholesterol levels and improve lipid metabolism. Taking a ginger extract supplement will optimise your intake of gingerols, shogaol and other paradols, the key substances in ginger. (30) (31) (32) (33)

1. Propolis has an acrid, bitter taste and can cause an unpleasant burning sensation when it is chewed.
2. The lyophilised form of propolis (found in capsules) preserves its properties almost indefinitely, which is not the case with the standard preservation of fresh propolis. You therefore don’t have to worry about how to use or take it.
3. All the above-mentioned therapeutic properties depend on the quality of standardisation (the main reference in this respect is undoubtedly the work of Professor Volpi of the University of Modena [volpi@unimo.it]), as well as collecting the selected species. Commercially available propolis in its raw form is not always of high quality.

With rigorously checked botanical sources, and standardised extracts supported by conclusive, clinical trials, green propolis constitutes an essential, natural product offering multiple synergistic ingredients which should be considered a high priority supplement. Using propolis to maintain and improve your health has never been easier than with green propolis. Concentrated and free from all impurities, this is the wonder bee product – the beehive’s secret to good health.

Buy Green Propolis capsules for immunostimulant benefits.

1) Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)

Indigenous to Asia, this adaptogenic mushroom (also called Ganoderma lucidum) was for a long time reserved only for Japanese and Chinese emperors and dignitaries. We now know that reishi is able to boost the immune system. Indeed, it helps increase production of B and T lymphocytes and macrophages. It also helps relieve fatigue. (34) (35) (36) (37)

2) Cordyceps

A mushroom that grows in the mountainous region of the Himalayas, cordyceps has been used for more than 3000 years in traditional Asian medicine. A number of studies have demonstrated its efficacy at increasing physical energy, stimulating sexual function and improving liver, kidney and lung health. (38) (39) (40)

3) Coriolus versicolor

Less well-known, Coriolus versicolor, is nonetheless an invaluable ally for maintaining good health, with several studies having confirmed its immunostimulant properties. This adaptogenic mushroom is used, amongst others, as an adjuvant treatment for certain types of cancer. (41) (42) (43) (44) (45)

4) Shiitake (Lentinula edodes)

Shiitake, or black mushroom, has been cultivated for millennia. Rich in antimicrobial compounds (such as lentinan, lenthionine and oxalic acid) which enable it to survive in its natural environment, shiitake is known for stimulating the immune system. It is used in Asia, for example, as an adjunct to chemotherapy. Shiitake also contains phenolic compounds with significant antioxidant potency. (46) (47) (48)

5) Chaga (Inonotus obliquus)

This adaptogenic mushroom was used as a tonic by nomadic peoples of the Siberian taiga who consumed it in the form of a tea. We now know that chaga’s polysaccharides boost the body by triggering the release of interferon and interleukin immune cells. (49) (50)

Bonus ingredient: olive leaf (Olea europaea)

And if 10 herb and mushroom extracts weren’t enough, Adaptogenic Potion includes a bonus ingredient. Perhaps you’ve heard about the benefits of olive leaf extract, derived from the classic Mediterranean tree? Studies show that taking Olea europaea leaf supplements reduces hypertension and cholesterol levels. Olive leaf is also an important source of antioxidants and flavonoids. (51) (52) (53)