Unveiling the Potential Health Benefits of 'Bee Glue'
A Sweet Discovery: Unlocking Nature's Secrets
In a fascinating collaboration, scientists and a Māori land trust have joined forces to explore the hidden health advantages of propolis, commonly known as 'bee glue.' This partnership, led by Manawa Honey NZ, a Māori-owned business, aims to uncover the unique properties of propolis derived from native New Zealand plants.
The Science Behind Bee Glue
Apicultural scientist Michelle Taylor explains that propolis is a plant resin collected by honeybees. These industrious insects mix the resin with their own salivary enzymes, beeswax, and pollen to create a versatile substance. "It's a far cry from honey," Taylor says, "essentially functioning as bee glue." Bees use propolis to seal holes in their hives, regulating airflow and protecting their homes from intruders, including insects, lizards, hedgehogs, and even humans.
Research in Action
Last autumn, honeybee hives were strategically placed on Tuawhenua Trust lands near Ruatāhuna, nestled in the heart of Te Urewera. The team from Manawa Honey supported scientists in collecting native plant samples within a 1500-meter radius and propolis from the hives. The analysis revealed a diverse range of compounds in both plant and propolis samples, with many major compound peaks in propolis also present in the plant samples.
Unraveling the Complexity
Taylor and her team analyzed an impressive 33 native plant species, including miro, rimu, and totara. The chemical composition's complexity was a delightful surprise, as previous studies had identified New Zealand propolis as poplar-type. "We aim to truly understand our propolis's identity," Taylor explains. "When you observe beehives, you'll notice they're often surrounded by native bush, not poplar. They're collecting native plant resins, and we wanted to explore if there was a difference. Our research confirms there is."
The Healing Potential of Propolis
Research on New Zealand propolis is still in its infancy, but its healing properties are well-recognized, particularly in wound care, as an antimicrobial agent, and as a natural immune function booster. Taylor is particularly intrigued by propolis's potential to improve glycemic control and reduce insulin resistance. "New Zealand has a high prevalence of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes," she says, "and we're eager to determine if the properties of propolis from our native plants could be a therapeutic option for these conditions."
A Māori Perspective
Brenda Tahi, chief executive of Manawa Honey, shares their motivation for propolis research, rooted in their kaupapa, a vision of a future where people are in harmony with nature, leading to improved health outcomes. Tahi (Ngāti Porou) highlights a long tradition of wild honey gathering in Ruatāhuna, where each whānau had their hive location on their lands, often in the holes of matai trees in the forest. The process involved climbing up using a rope system and a kerosene tin as a container.
Beyond Mānuka Honey
Tahi emphasizes that while mānuka honey is well-known, it is not the only type produced in New Zealand's forests. Early in the season, hinau honey is produced from a major tree in the forest canopy, followed by rātā honey, which is more sporadic, appearing every few years. Other native plants that bees collect honey from include kānuka, rewarewa, tawhero or kāmahi, and tāwari, often the bees' preferred choice.
A Connection to Nature
"We're content with what Te Urewera provides us," Tahi says. "We're grateful for the unique honeys our region offers each year. It's a testament to our connection with nature and the forest's bounty."
This collaboration between science and tradition opens a new chapter in our understanding of nature's gifts, inviting further exploration and discussion. What do you think about the potential health benefits of propolis? Could it be a game-changer in diabetes management? Share your thoughts in the comments!
