Reproductive Responses in Ewes Treated with eCG or Increasing Doses of Royal Jelly
Animal Reproduction Science, Volume 92, Issues 1-2 , March 2006, Pages 75-85
Abstract: This experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of administering increasing doses of royal jelly (RJ) on reproductive parameters in ewes. Additionally, this study compared using RJ vs. equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) in estrous cycle control. . .Lambing rate was higher (P < 0.05) in the RJ500 group compared with controls. . .
Results of the present study demonstrate that eCG but not RJ was effective in improving estrus expression in ewes during the transition between the non-breeding and breeding seasons. Royal jelly may be effective in improving pregnancy and lambing rates but further studies are required to confirm such findings.
Tuesday, January 31, 2006
Beekeeping as Manna for Nigeria
Vanguard (Nigeria), 1/31/2006
. . .Everything in a bee hive can give you money; from honey to propolis and even the bee sting that people run away from, provides good health for the bee keeper and his friends who appreciate the healing virtues of bee therapy.
Another unique feature of beekeeping is that unlike other aspects of agriculture like poultry which generate one or two products, in beekeeping you could get honey, propolis and pollen to sell. Then the good health which the beekeeper derives from the business is another reward for him. This is why I have described investment in beekeeping like investment that is close to manna. . .
. . .Everything in a bee hive can give you money; from honey to propolis and even the bee sting that people run away from, provides good health for the bee keeper and his friends who appreciate the healing virtues of bee therapy.
Another unique feature of beekeeping is that unlike other aspects of agriculture like poultry which generate one or two products, in beekeeping you could get honey, propolis and pollen to sell. Then the good health which the beekeeper derives from the business is another reward for him. This is why I have described investment in beekeeping like investment that is close to manna. . .
Monday, January 30, 2006
More Media Coverage of Honey as Diet Aid
Sleep Your Way Slim
By Victoria Kennedy, The Mirror (UK), 1/30/2006
DARK nights make it really tempting to slink off to bed early and miss out on that visit to the gym.
But there's good news. According to the Hibernation Diet, you can lose a pound a day - while you snooze.
A new book, by nutrition experts Mike and Stuart McInnes and Maggie Stanfield, says the body burns more fat asleep than in heavy aerobic exercise. . .
A key ingredient of the diet is a spoonful of honey. It's the food we can most easily convert into glycogen - and this allows the release of hormones that repair the body and burn fat. . .
By Victoria Kennedy, The Mirror (UK), 1/30/2006
DARK nights make it really tempting to slink off to bed early and miss out on that visit to the gym.
But there's good news. According to the Hibernation Diet, you can lose a pound a day - while you snooze.
A new book, by nutrition experts Mike and Stuart McInnes and Maggie Stanfield, says the body burns more fat asleep than in heavy aerobic exercise. . .
A key ingredient of the diet is a spoonful of honey. It's the food we can most easily convert into glycogen - and this allows the release of hormones that repair the body and burn fat. . .
Apitherapy Seminar in Toronto, Canada
Healing with Bee Products
When: Saturday, February 18, 2006, 2-3:30 p.m.
Where: Foodshare, 200 Eastern Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Topics covered will include healing with propolis, royal jelly, bee venom, honey, bee-collected pollen, and beeswax. Pamphlets and samples of bee products will be provided.
For more information, contact Oliver Couto, e-mail: imaginaryaxis@hotmail.com Tel: 416-232-2225
When: Saturday, February 18, 2006, 2-3:30 p.m.
Where: Foodshare, 200 Eastern Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Topics covered will include healing with propolis, royal jelly, bee venom, honey, bee-collected pollen, and beeswax. Pamphlets and samples of bee products will be provided.
For more information, contact Oliver Couto, e-mail: imaginaryaxis@hotmail.com Tel: 416-232-2225
Sunday, January 29, 2006
Photo of Indonesian Apitherapist
Reuters, 1/28/2006
Muntoyib, an Indonesian bee-sting therapist, places a live honeybee on to his patient's skin in Jakarta January 28, 2006. Although the therapy is scientifically unproven and needs more studying, the popularity of bee-sting therapy, the use of bee venom from live stinging bees to treat chronic pain, is on the rise.
Muntoyib, an Indonesian bee-sting therapist, places a live honeybee on to his patient's skin in Jakarta January 28, 2006. Although the therapy is scientifically unproven and needs more studying, the popularity of bee-sting therapy, the use of bee venom from live stinging bees to treat chronic pain, is on the rise.
BVT Used to Reduce Symptoms of MS
Relief Outweighs Stings for Area Woman
By Jeff Martin, Morning Journal (USA), 1/28/2006
Suffering from multiple sclerosis for more than a decade, Davis uses bee venom as medicinal therapy. And since 1996, after a car accident aggravated her MS symptoms, the use of bee venom three times per week has reduced her physical afflictions such as blindness, deafness and fatigue dramatically.
While the practice may sound alien to most, the act of treating various sicknesses and maladies like arthritis, MS and other aches and pains with bee venom has ancient origins. The venom contains 18 active substances, many of which contain significant potency to abate many physical conditions.
Most prevalent is the substance melittin, an anti-inflammatory agent significantly more potent that hydrocortisol. Helping with MS symptoms are the neurotransmitters Dophamine, Norepinephrine and Seratonin.
Organizations like The American Apitherapy Society support the practice, as do local beekeepers, some of whom have appeared before local governmental bodies asking that ordinances prohibiting beekeeping be modified or, at best, dismissed entirely. . .
By Jeff Martin, Morning Journal (USA), 1/28/2006
Suffering from multiple sclerosis for more than a decade, Davis uses bee venom as medicinal therapy. And since 1996, after a car accident aggravated her MS symptoms, the use of bee venom three times per week has reduced her physical afflictions such as blindness, deafness and fatigue dramatically.
While the practice may sound alien to most, the act of treating various sicknesses and maladies like arthritis, MS and other aches and pains with bee venom has ancient origins. The venom contains 18 active substances, many of which contain significant potency to abate many physical conditions.
Most prevalent is the substance melittin, an anti-inflammatory agent significantly more potent that hydrocortisol. Helping with MS symptoms are the neurotransmitters Dophamine, Norepinephrine and Seratonin.
Organizations like The American Apitherapy Society support the practice, as do local beekeepers, some of whom have appeared before local governmental bodies asking that ordinances prohibiting beekeeping be modified or, at best, dismissed entirely. . .
Saturday, January 28, 2006
Bee Venom Therapy Used for Muscular Dystrophy
Do 18 Stings a Day Heep the Doctors Away?
By Benjamin Malakoff, St. Cloud Times (USA), 1/15/2006
SAUK RAPIDS — By August 1999, muscular dystrophy had so severely sapped Kevin Lovitz's muscles that the Sauk Rapids teen-ager hadn't so much as rolled over in bed by himself for a year and a half.
Diagnosed at 6½, Lovitz, 18, was in a wheelchair by 11 and was expected to be gone by now.
But Kevin and his family believe he has been granted extra time by enduring more than 20,000 honeybee stings.
Yes, you read that correctly.
The Lovitzes practice apitherapy, the therapeutic use of bee products such as honey, pollen, beeswax and bee venom for health and healing.
While considered alternative medicine, apitherapy has grown in popularity in the past century. The first World Apitherapy Day is March 30. . .
Kevin has Duchenne muscular dystrophy, one of 36 types of the disease. It is caused by the body's inability to produce the protein dystrophin, which helps produce and maintain skeletal and cardiac muscle. While the bee stings he's endured for the past seven years never stop hurting, they have provided hope to a family who was told there was none. . .
In the spring, Kevin will graduate from Sauk Rapids-Rice High School. His plans thereafter are undecided, but he's grateful to be here. And he may owe a lot of it to the bees.
By Benjamin Malakoff, St. Cloud Times (USA), 1/15/2006
SAUK RAPIDS — By August 1999, muscular dystrophy had so severely sapped Kevin Lovitz's muscles that the Sauk Rapids teen-ager hadn't so much as rolled over in bed by himself for a year and a half.
Diagnosed at 6½, Lovitz, 18, was in a wheelchair by 11 and was expected to be gone by now.
But Kevin and his family believe he has been granted extra time by enduring more than 20,000 honeybee stings.
Yes, you read that correctly.
The Lovitzes practice apitherapy, the therapeutic use of bee products such as honey, pollen, beeswax and bee venom for health and healing.
While considered alternative medicine, apitherapy has grown in popularity in the past century. The first World Apitherapy Day is March 30. . .
Kevin has Duchenne muscular dystrophy, one of 36 types of the disease. It is caused by the body's inability to produce the protein dystrophin, which helps produce and maintain skeletal and cardiac muscle. While the bee stings he's endured for the past seven years never stop hurting, they have provided hope to a family who was told there was none. . .
In the spring, Kevin will graduate from Sauk Rapids-Rice High School. His plans thereafter are undecided, but he's grateful to be here. And he may owe a lot of it to the bees.
Bee Pollen Used for Back Pain
This Class is for the ‘Bees’
Robert Felton, Austin Weekly News (USA), 1/25/2006
Carl Johnson has suffered from back pain for a number of years. Nothing the 63-year-old did to try to ease his pain seemed to work.
As he was searching for something to help, he happened across an old book in his collection about Bees and how their pollen can be used to improve human’s health. Johnson took a shot, and started taking pollen.
"I read about all of the health benefits of bee pollen and about how it aids in the healing of injuries of this nature. I started taking bee pollen five years ago and now I feel as good as I ever have," said Johnson. " I certainly [don’t feel] 63 years old." . . .
Robert Felton, Austin Weekly News (USA), 1/25/2006
Carl Johnson has suffered from back pain for a number of years. Nothing the 63-year-old did to try to ease his pain seemed to work.
As he was searching for something to help, he happened across an old book in his collection about Bees and how their pollen can be used to improve human’s health. Johnson took a shot, and started taking pollen.
"I read about all of the health benefits of bee pollen and about how it aids in the healing of injuries of this nature. I started taking bee pollen five years ago and now I feel as good as I ever have," said Johnson. " I certainly [don’t feel] 63 years old." . . .
Friday, January 27, 2006
Excerpts from Wall Street Journal Article on Bee Venom Therapy
Aches & Claims: Now This May Sting a Bit...
By Laura Johannes, The Wall Street Journal, 1/24/2006
Can bee venom take the sting out of maladies ranging from arthritis to multiple sclerosis? Apitherapists -- who use bee products to treat ailments -- believe the venom from bee stings can alleviate pain and inflammation. So far, experts say scientific evidence for the claims is thin.
Bee venom has been used in medicine for thousands of years. Today, interest in venom as an arthritis treatment has intensified since the painkiller Vioxx was found to increase risks of heart attack and stroke and was pulled from the market in 2004. Venom is also used for pain from wounds or scars and for multiple sclerosis, an autoimmune disease. And it is used to treat the aftermath of shingles, a severe viral rash that can result in lingering pain. . .
Venom contains hundreds of components -- including about 20 large proteins, says Donald Hoffman, a scientist East Carolina University in Greenville, N.C. Some of the ingredients do have pharmacological effects, he says. For example, one component is widely known for its activity in blocking nerve centers. And studies have found that bee venom reduces inflammation in rats. . .
Many apitherapists seek to minimize risk by keeping epinephrine, an antidote to allergic reactions, on hand for emergencies. Theodore Cherbuliez, a South Freeport, Maine, psychiatrist who also performs bee-venom therapy, says that after therapy, many patients experience significant swelling. It is generally harmless and goes away within a week, say he and other experts. . .
Evidence that bee venom is useful for humans is scant. There are no major published U.S. human trials on arthritis. For multiple sclerosis, some hopes were dashed by a study published last month in the journal Neurology. The 26-patient test found that stings with up to 20 live bees three times a week for six months caused no serious side effects -- but they also didn't reduce disease activity, disability or fatigue. Apitherapists say the study results are meaningless because the researchers administered the stings on the upper leg, rather than at strategically placed locations as apitherapists do.
Another smaller study published last month found five of the nine multiple-sclerosis patients treated with bee venom injections appeared to improve while the others experienced a worsening in their condition. Senior study author Joseph Bellanti, director of the International Immunology Center at Georgetown University Medical Center in Washington, says he thinks venom merits further study, but says patients shouldn't try it on their own unless proven remedies, such as beta interferon, have failed.
Send comments to: feedback@wsj.com and wsj.ltrs@wsj.com
By Laura Johannes, The Wall Street Journal, 1/24/2006
Can bee venom take the sting out of maladies ranging from arthritis to multiple sclerosis? Apitherapists -- who use bee products to treat ailments -- believe the venom from bee stings can alleviate pain and inflammation. So far, experts say scientific evidence for the claims is thin.
Bee venom has been used in medicine for thousands of years. Today, interest in venom as an arthritis treatment has intensified since the painkiller Vioxx was found to increase risks of heart attack and stroke and was pulled from the market in 2004. Venom is also used for pain from wounds or scars and for multiple sclerosis, an autoimmune disease. And it is used to treat the aftermath of shingles, a severe viral rash that can result in lingering pain. . .
Venom contains hundreds of components -- including about 20 large proteins, says Donald Hoffman, a scientist East Carolina University in Greenville, N.C. Some of the ingredients do have pharmacological effects, he says. For example, one component is widely known for its activity in blocking nerve centers. And studies have found that bee venom reduces inflammation in rats. . .
Many apitherapists seek to minimize risk by keeping epinephrine, an antidote to allergic reactions, on hand for emergencies. Theodore Cherbuliez, a South Freeport, Maine, psychiatrist who also performs bee-venom therapy, says that after therapy, many patients experience significant swelling. It is generally harmless and goes away within a week, say he and other experts. . .
Evidence that bee venom is useful for humans is scant. There are no major published U.S. human trials on arthritis. For multiple sclerosis, some hopes were dashed by a study published last month in the journal Neurology. The 26-patient test found that stings with up to 20 live bees three times a week for six months caused no serious side effects -- but they also didn't reduce disease activity, disability or fatigue. Apitherapists say the study results are meaningless because the researchers administered the stings on the upper leg, rather than at strategically placed locations as apitherapists do.
Another smaller study published last month found five of the nine multiple-sclerosis patients treated with bee venom injections appeared to improve while the others experienced a worsening in their condition. Senior study author Joseph Bellanti, director of the International Immunology Center at Georgetown University Medical Center in Washington, says he thinks venom merits further study, but says patients shouldn't try it on their own unless proven remedies, such as beta interferon, have failed.
Send comments to: feedback@wsj.com and wsj.ltrs@wsj.com
Royal Jelly Now Produced in Italy
Made in Italy: Royal Jelly, 100 Pct Guaranteed
AGI, 1/26/2006
(AGI) - Rome, Jan. 26 - The first real royal jelly that can claim "Italian Nationality", guaranteed by Mielizia and Alce Nera, is produced entirely in our country by selected beekeepers, without antibiotics. A new product, the only real royal jelly present on European territories today is that of Chinese origin, much more economic than the Italian one but also much less natural. It does not follow hygiene and conservation regulations and uses gross quantities of cloramfenicolo, a damaging antibiotic long banned in our country. To protect consumers, our law bans the presence of antibiotic residuals, even trace. Despite this, current national production of royal jelly is equal to just 3 pct of Italian consumption, estimated in 400 kilograms, that come almost totally from China. . .
AGI, 1/26/2006
(AGI) - Rome, Jan. 26 - The first real royal jelly that can claim "Italian Nationality", guaranteed by Mielizia and Alce Nera, is produced entirely in our country by selected beekeepers, without antibiotics. A new product, the only real royal jelly present on European territories today is that of Chinese origin, much more economic than the Italian one but also much less natural. It does not follow hygiene and conservation regulations and uses gross quantities of cloramfenicolo, a damaging antibiotic long banned in our country. To protect consumers, our law bans the presence of antibiotic residuals, even trace. Despite this, current national production of royal jelly is equal to just 3 pct of Italian consumption, estimated in 400 kilograms, that come almost totally from China. . .
Thursday, January 26, 2006
Honey, Propolis Recommended for Animal Wounds
Treating Horse Wounds, Aging Dogs
By Jo Bighouse, Clarke Times-Currier, 1/25/2006
Q: My horse recently cut her leg. Is there a natural way to treat her wound?
A: In her book, “Homeopathic First Aid for Horses” Joyce Harman DVM, MRCVS recommends washing the wound first with plain water and soft cotton. Then rinse with a solution of 1 ounce Calendula Officianalis with 9 ounces of bottled water. Dress the wound with Calendula Officianalis ointment applied one or two times a day. Raw, unpasteurized honey can also be used as a dressing. It has enzymes that increase the oxygen next to the wound. Bee propolis can be given internally to aid healing. Research shows propolis offers antiseptic, antibiotic, antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties.
By Jo Bighouse, Clarke Times-Currier, 1/25/2006
Q: My horse recently cut her leg. Is there a natural way to treat her wound?
A: In her book, “Homeopathic First Aid for Horses” Joyce Harman DVM, MRCVS recommends washing the wound first with plain water and soft cotton. Then rinse with a solution of 1 ounce Calendula Officianalis with 9 ounces of bottled water. Dress the wound with Calendula Officianalis ointment applied one or two times a day. Raw, unpasteurized honey can also be used as a dressing. It has enzymes that increase the oxygen next to the wound. Bee propolis can be given internally to aid healing. Research shows propolis offers antiseptic, antibiotic, antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties.
Up to 6.6% of Patients Are Sensitive to Propolis
Allergic Contact Dermatitis from Propolis
Susan E. Walgrave; Erin M. Warshaw; Lynn A. Glesne, Dermatitis, 1/19/2006
Abstract: Propolis is commonly used in cosmetic and medicinal preparations because of its antiseptic, antiinflammatory, and anesthetic properties. Its therapeutic qualities have been well documented. However, 1.2 to 6.6% of patients who are patch-tested for dermatitis are sensitive to propolis. The main allergens are 3-methyl-2-butenyl caffeate and phenylethyl caffeate. Benzyl salicylate and benzyl cinnamate are less frequent sensitizers. Propolis is found in a number of "natural" products, including lip balms, cosmetics, lotions and ointments, shampoos, conditioners, and toothpastes. Dermatologists should consider patch testing with propolis in users of such remedies.
Also in this article:
* Composition of Propolis
* Responsible Allergens
* Potential Medical Uses and Biologic Properties of Propolis
* Type IV Contact Dermatitis Reactions to Propolis
* Type I Immunoglobulin E–Mediated Reactions to Propolis
* Reactions to Ingested Propolis
* Patch Testing
* Summary
Susan E. Walgrave; Erin M. Warshaw; Lynn A. Glesne, Dermatitis, 1/19/2006
Abstract: Propolis is commonly used in cosmetic and medicinal preparations because of its antiseptic, antiinflammatory, and anesthetic properties. Its therapeutic qualities have been well documented. However, 1.2 to 6.6% of patients who are patch-tested for dermatitis are sensitive to propolis. The main allergens are 3-methyl-2-butenyl caffeate and phenylethyl caffeate. Benzyl salicylate and benzyl cinnamate are less frequent sensitizers. Propolis is found in a number of "natural" products, including lip balms, cosmetics, lotions and ointments, shampoos, conditioners, and toothpastes. Dermatologists should consider patch testing with propolis in users of such remedies.
Also in this article:
* Composition of Propolis
* Responsible Allergens
* Potential Medical Uses and Biologic Properties of Propolis
* Type IV Contact Dermatitis Reactions to Propolis
* Type I Immunoglobulin E–Mediated Reactions to Propolis
* Reactions to Ingested Propolis
* Patch Testing
* Summary
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
India to Diversify Honey Industry with Apitherapy Products
Honey Prices Nosedive as Supply Exceeds Demand
Financial Express, 1/23/2006
MUMBAI - Domestic honey prices in India have dropped precipitously last year in the major honey producing states as the supply has far exceeded the demand in absence of a proper pricing formula and unorganised retailing. . .
Industry experts project the industry’s potential to be 10 times current levels through diversification of bee products such as honey, beeswax, royal jelly, pollen, propolis and venom for both home consumption as food stuff and medicine.
Financial Express, 1/23/2006
MUMBAI - Domestic honey prices in India have dropped precipitously last year in the major honey producing states as the supply has far exceeded the demand in absence of a proper pricing formula and unorganised retailing. . .
Industry experts project the industry’s potential to be 10 times current levels through diversification of bee products such as honey, beeswax, royal jelly, pollen, propolis and venom for both home consumption as food stuff and medicine.
Propolis Effective Against Giardia
In Vitro Effects of Propolis on Giardia Duodenalis Trophozoites
Phytomedicine, Volume 13, Issue 3, 13 February 2006, Pages 170-175
Abstract: In order to improve the current chemotherapy of Giardia infection, potential antigiardial agents have been screened, including natural products. Propolis, a resinous hive product collected by bees, has attracted attention as a useful and popular substance with several therapeutic activities. The present study was carried out aiming to evaluate the in vitro effects of an ethanolic extract of propolis on the growth and adherence of Giardia duodenalis trophozoites.
Propolis inhibited the growth of trophozoites and the level of inhibition varied according to the extract concentration and incubation times. The highest reduction of parasite growth was observed in cultures exposed to 125, 250 and 500 μg/ml of propolis, in all incubation periods (24, 48, 72 and 96 h). Growth reduction by 50% was observed in 125 μg/ml propolis-treated cultures, while the concentrations of 250 and 500 μg/ml were able to inhibit growth by more than 60%. Propolis also inhibited parasite adherence and all assayed propolis concentrations promoted the detachment of trophozoites. Light microscope observations revealed changes of the pear-shaped aspect of the cell and reduction of flagellar beating frequency in the great part of the trophozoites. Our results hold the perspective for the utilization of propolis as an antigiardial agent.
Contact: sgviana@ibb.unesp.br
Phytomedicine, Volume 13, Issue 3, 13 February 2006, Pages 170-175
Abstract: In order to improve the current chemotherapy of Giardia infection, potential antigiardial agents have been screened, including natural products. Propolis, a resinous hive product collected by bees, has attracted attention as a useful and popular substance with several therapeutic activities. The present study was carried out aiming to evaluate the in vitro effects of an ethanolic extract of propolis on the growth and adherence of Giardia duodenalis trophozoites.
Propolis inhibited the growth of trophozoites and the level of inhibition varied according to the extract concentration and incubation times. The highest reduction of parasite growth was observed in cultures exposed to 125, 250 and 500 μg/ml of propolis, in all incubation periods (24, 48, 72 and 96 h). Growth reduction by 50% was observed in 125 μg/ml propolis-treated cultures, while the concentrations of 250 and 500 μg/ml were able to inhibit growth by more than 60%. Propolis also inhibited parasite adherence and all assayed propolis concentrations promoted the detachment of trophozoites. Light microscope observations revealed changes of the pear-shaped aspect of the cell and reduction of flagellar beating frequency in the great part of the trophozoites. Our results hold the perspective for the utilization of propolis as an antigiardial agent.
Contact: sgviana@ibb.unesp.br
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
Raw Honey Recommended for Animal Allergies
Animal Doctor
The Washington Post, 1/24/2006
“Giving my Weimaraner a 1/4 teaspoon of local raw honey (that contains pollen), twice daily after meals, stopped him from developing the usual seasonal allergy (swollen/itchy paws and ears).”
The Washington Post, 1/24/2006
“Giving my Weimaraner a 1/4 teaspoon of local raw honey (that contains pollen), twice daily after meals, stopped him from developing the usual seasonal allergy (swollen/itchy paws and ears).”
Bee Venom Allergy Vaccine Developed
Vaccine with Reduced IgE Binding and Preserved T Cell Epitopes Prevents Allergy Attacks
Physician Law Weekly, 1/25/2006
A recombinant multi-allergen vaccine with reduced IgE binding and preserved T cell epitopes prevents allergy attacks.
According to recent research published in the European Journal of Immunology, "Novel approaches for the prevention of allergy are required, because of the inevitably increasing prevalence of allergic diseases during the last 30 years."
Fariba Karamloo at the Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research and collaborators throughout the world announced, "A recombinant chimeric protein, which comprises the whole amino acid sequences of three bee venom major allergens has been engineered and used in prevention of bee venom sensitization in mice."
"Phospholipase A (Api in 1), hyaluronidase (Api m 2) and melittin (Api in 3) fragments with overlapping amino acids were assembled in a different order in the Api in (1/2/3) chimeric protein, which preserved entire T cell epitopes, whereas B cell epitopes of all three allergens were abrogated," the scientists explained. "Accordingly, IgE cross-linking leading to mast cell and basophil mediator release was profoundly reduced in humans. Supporting these findings, the Api in (1/2/3) induced 100 to 1000 times less type-1 skin test reactivity in allergic patients."
"Treatment of mice with Api in (1/2/3) led to a significant reduction of specific IgE development towards native allergen, representing a protective vaccine effect in vivo," the authors noted. . .
Karamloo and associates published their study in the European Journal of Immunology (Prevention of allergy by a recombinant multi-allergen vaccine with reduced IgE binding and preserved T cell epitopes. Eur J Immunol, 2005;35(11):3268-3276).
For additional information, contact Fariba Karamloo, Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), Obere Strasse 22, CH-7270 Davos, Switzerland. E-mail: karamlooflory@compuserve.de.
The publisher's contact information for the European Journal of Immunology is: Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH, PO Box 10 11 61, D-69451 Weinheim, Germany.
Physician Law Weekly, 1/25/2006
A recombinant multi-allergen vaccine with reduced IgE binding and preserved T cell epitopes prevents allergy attacks.
According to recent research published in the European Journal of Immunology, "Novel approaches for the prevention of allergy are required, because of the inevitably increasing prevalence of allergic diseases during the last 30 years."
Fariba Karamloo at the Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research and collaborators throughout the world announced, "A recombinant chimeric protein, which comprises the whole amino acid sequences of three bee venom major allergens has been engineered and used in prevention of bee venom sensitization in mice."
"Phospholipase A (Api in 1), hyaluronidase (Api m 2) and melittin (Api in 3) fragments with overlapping amino acids were assembled in a different order in the Api in (1/2/3) chimeric protein, which preserved entire T cell epitopes, whereas B cell epitopes of all three allergens were abrogated," the scientists explained. "Accordingly, IgE cross-linking leading to mast cell and basophil mediator release was profoundly reduced in humans. Supporting these findings, the Api in (1/2/3) induced 100 to 1000 times less type-1 skin test reactivity in allergic patients."
"Treatment of mice with Api in (1/2/3) led to a significant reduction of specific IgE development towards native allergen, representing a protective vaccine effect in vivo," the authors noted. . .
Karamloo and associates published their study in the European Journal of Immunology (Prevention of allergy by a recombinant multi-allergen vaccine with reduced IgE binding and preserved T cell epitopes. Eur J Immunol, 2005;35(11):3268-3276).
For additional information, contact Fariba Karamloo, Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), Obere Strasse 22, CH-7270 Davos, Switzerland. E-mail: karamlooflory@compuserve.de.
The publisher's contact information for the European Journal of Immunology is: Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH, PO Box 10 11 61, D-69451 Weinheim, Germany.
Monday, January 23, 2006
Honey, Royal Jelly Used in 'Edible' Skincare Line
Korean Range of Make-Up, Skincare is Made with Edible Ingredients
By Pearlyn Tham, Today (Singapore), 1/23/06
From a career in banking, Judy Yuen is now dabbling in herb salad, red ginseng, white chocolate, red wine and black bean. But the well-groomed woman is not in the food business. Well, not really, though her Marina Square shop is named Skin Food. Set up last November, the shop stocks Korean brand Skin Food, which is an extensive line of skincare and body care products made from food extracts. The more common food ingredients used would include green tea, honey and royal jelly, milk and avocado. . .
By Pearlyn Tham, Today (Singapore), 1/23/06
From a career in banking, Judy Yuen is now dabbling in herb salad, red ginseng, white chocolate, red wine and black bean. But the well-groomed woman is not in the food business. Well, not really, though her Marina Square shop is named Skin Food. Set up last November, the shop stocks Korean brand Skin Food, which is an extensive line of skincare and body care products made from food extracts. The more common food ingredients used would include green tea, honey and royal jelly, milk and avocado. . .
Video Report on Brazilian Green Propolis
TV Globo, Brazil
Excellent 20-minute online video report on the collection, processing, export, and medicinal qualities of Brazilian green propolis. In Portuguese with English subtitles.
Excellent 20-minute online video report on the collection, processing, export, and medicinal qualities of Brazilian green propolis. In Portuguese with English subtitles.
Sunday, January 22, 2006
Raw Millefiori Honey is Packed Full of Antioxidants
Istituto di Chimica Biologica “Giorgio Fornaini”
Abstract: Total polyphenols, flavonoids and antioxidant power of raw honey samples from two of the most common Italian varieties, i.e., Millefiori and Acacia, were evaluated. Phenolic content, expressed as caffeic acid equivalents, ranged from 12.5 to 17.5 mg/100 g and from 3 to 11 mg/100 g in Millefiori and Acacia honeys, respectively. All Millefiori samples exhibited the highest flavonoid concentration being between 1.23 and 2.93 mg catechin equivalents (CE)/100 g honey. Total flavonoids in 100 g Acacia honeys were in the range of 0.451.01 mg CE. Acacia honeys had lower total antioxidant power, as assessed by ferric reducing/antioxidant power assay, than Millefiori. The relationship between phenolic content and antioxidant power was discussed. Comparative experimental analysis was performed with an artificial honey and processed honeys. Raw Millefiori honey is rich in both amount and variety of antioxidant substances, and its inclusion in the diet may be recommended to complement other polyphenol sources.
Corresponding author. Tel.: +39 0722 305242; fax: +39 0722 320188.
Abstract: Total polyphenols, flavonoids and antioxidant power of raw honey samples from two of the most common Italian varieties, i.e., Millefiori and Acacia, were evaluated. Phenolic content, expressed as caffeic acid equivalents, ranged from 12.5 to 17.5 mg/100 g and from 3 to 11 mg/100 g in Millefiori and Acacia honeys, respectively. All Millefiori samples exhibited the highest flavonoid concentration being between 1.23 and 2.93 mg catechin equivalents (CE)/100 g honey. Total flavonoids in 100 g Acacia honeys were in the range of 0.451.01 mg CE. Acacia honeys had lower total antioxidant power, as assessed by ferric reducing/antioxidant power assay, than Millefiori. The relationship between phenolic content and antioxidant power was discussed. Comparative experimental analysis was performed with an artificial honey and processed honeys. Raw Millefiori honey is rich in both amount and variety of antioxidant substances, and its inclusion in the diet may be recommended to complement other polyphenol sources.
Corresponding author. Tel.: +39 0722 305242; fax: +39 0722 320188.
Antimicrobial Activity of Flavonoids in Propolis, Honey
Flavonoids Represent Novel Drug Development Leads Because of Antimicrobial Activity
Law & Health Weekly, 1/28/2006
"Flavonoids are ubiquitous in photosynthesising cells and are commonly found in fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds, stems, flowers, tea, wine, propolis and honey," wrote T.P.T. Cushnie and colleagues, Robert Gordon University.
"For centuries, preparations containing these compounds as the principal physiologically active constituents have been used to treat human diseases," the scientists report in the International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents.
The authors explained, "Increasingly, this class of natural products is becoming the subject of anti-infective research, and many groups have isolated and identified the structures of flavonoids possessing antifungal, antiviral and antibacterial activity.
"Moreover, several groups have demonstrated synergy between active flavonoids as well as between flavonoids and existing chemotherapeutics."
They continued, "Reports of activity in the field of antibacterial flavonoid research are widely conflicting, probably owing to inter-and intra-assay variation in susceptibility testing. However, several high-quality investigations have examined the relationship between flavonoid structure and antibacterial activity and these are in close agreement.
"In addition, numerous research groups have sought to elucidate the antibacterial mechanisms of action of selected flavonoids. The activity of quercetin, for example, has been at least partially attributed to inhibition of DNA gyrase." . . .
Cushnie and colleagues published their study in International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents (Antimicrobial activity of flavonoids. Int J Antimicrob Agents, 2005;26(5):343-356).
For more information, contact A.J. Lamb, Robert Gordon University, School Pharmacy, School Hill, Aberdeen AB10 1FR, Scotland.
Publisher contact information for the International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents is: Elsevier Science BV, PO Box 211, 1000 AE Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Law & Health Weekly, 1/28/2006
"Flavonoids are ubiquitous in photosynthesising cells and are commonly found in fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds, stems, flowers, tea, wine, propolis and honey," wrote T.P.T. Cushnie and colleagues, Robert Gordon University.
"For centuries, preparations containing these compounds as the principal physiologically active constituents have been used to treat human diseases," the scientists report in the International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents.
The authors explained, "Increasingly, this class of natural products is becoming the subject of anti-infective research, and many groups have isolated and identified the structures of flavonoids possessing antifungal, antiviral and antibacterial activity.
"Moreover, several groups have demonstrated synergy between active flavonoids as well as between flavonoids and existing chemotherapeutics."
They continued, "Reports of activity in the field of antibacterial flavonoid research are widely conflicting, probably owing to inter-and intra-assay variation in susceptibility testing. However, several high-quality investigations have examined the relationship between flavonoid structure and antibacterial activity and these are in close agreement.
"In addition, numerous research groups have sought to elucidate the antibacterial mechanisms of action of selected flavonoids. The activity of quercetin, for example, has been at least partially attributed to inhibition of DNA gyrase." . . .
Cushnie and colleagues published their study in International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents (Antimicrobial activity of flavonoids. Int J Antimicrob Agents, 2005;26(5):343-356).
For more information, contact A.J. Lamb, Robert Gordon University, School Pharmacy, School Hill, Aberdeen AB10 1FR, Scotland.
Publisher contact information for the International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents is: Elsevier Science BV, PO Box 211, 1000 AE Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Saturday, January 21, 2006
Honey and Onion Cough Cure
The Times (UK), 1/21/2006
Chop an onion finely, put it with a tablespoon of clear honey in a screw-top jar and leave overnight. In the morning, drinking a teaspoonful of the juice produced will ease a cough.
This home remedy is typical of the genre in that it contains a mixture of ingredients. As a result, scientific analysis is fraught with difficulties: is the active component the onion, the honey, the screw-top jar or some magical combination of all three?
It is true that both onion and honey have been shown to have anti-microbial properties. But this effect is restricted to bacteria, whereas the vast majority of simple coughs are the result of infection with viruses. So the suggested concoction will not sort out the cause. But could it at least alleviate the symptoms? After all, honey has been shown to have a beneficial effect on the airways.
For example, studies of honey inhalation have demonstrated increased “peak flow” readings, a measure of how open the airways are. Air flow is characteristically reduced in asthma, a cardinal symptom of which is a cough. QED, say the enthusiasts.
Chop an onion finely, put it with a tablespoon of clear honey in a screw-top jar and leave overnight. In the morning, drinking a teaspoonful of the juice produced will ease a cough.
This home remedy is typical of the genre in that it contains a mixture of ingredients. As a result, scientific analysis is fraught with difficulties: is the active component the onion, the honey, the screw-top jar or some magical combination of all three?
It is true that both onion and honey have been shown to have anti-microbial properties. But this effect is restricted to bacteria, whereas the vast majority of simple coughs are the result of infection with viruses. So the suggested concoction will not sort out the cause. But could it at least alleviate the symptoms? After all, honey has been shown to have a beneficial effect on the airways.
For example, studies of honey inhalation have demonstrated increased “peak flow” readings, a measure of how open the airways are. Air flow is characteristically reduced in asthma, a cardinal symptom of which is a cough. QED, say the enthusiasts.
Friday, January 20, 2006
Japanese Drink Maker Promises Energy Boost from Propolis, Royal Jelly
Square Pops Cap on FFXII Energy Drink
GameSpot News, 1/19/2006
TOKYO--Quaffing potions in role-playing games that boost stamina are nothing new. But why should in-game characters have all the fun? In December, Square Enix and Japanese beverage maker Suntory announced plans to release a new drink inspired by magical mixings from the Final Fantasy series.
Suntory today revealed that the drink will be named Final Fantasy XII Potion and will flow into Japanese stores on March 7, nine days before Square Enix's release of the anticipated RPG. The drink will be available for a limited time.
Suntory says that Final Fantasy XII Potion has been developed to deliver a "mythical" taste that captures the essence of the game. To create the distinct flavor, the drink uses 10 herbs, including elder flower, chamomile, rosemary, and lemon balm. It also includes royal jelly and propolis to give the drinker a boost of energy, to keep a spring in the step of cosplayers everywhere.
GameSpot News, 1/19/2006
TOKYO--Quaffing potions in role-playing games that boost stamina are nothing new. But why should in-game characters have all the fun? In December, Square Enix and Japanese beverage maker Suntory announced plans to release a new drink inspired by magical mixings from the Final Fantasy series.
Suntory today revealed that the drink will be named Final Fantasy XII Potion and will flow into Japanese stores on March 7, nine days before Square Enix's release of the anticipated RPG. The drink will be available for a limited time.
Suntory says that Final Fantasy XII Potion has been developed to deliver a "mythical" taste that captures the essence of the game. To create the distinct flavor, the drink uses 10 herbs, including elder flower, chamomile, rosemary, and lemon balm. It also includes royal jelly and propolis to give the drinker a boost of energy, to keep a spring in the step of cosplayers everywhere.
Thursday, January 19, 2006
Columnist Claims Bee Products Have No Medicinal Value
Be Sweet on Honey Despite its Limited Nutritional Value
By Patricia Aaron, Albuquerque Journal (USA), 1/18/2006
Honey is the nectar of flowers that is collected, modified and concentrated by the honeybee. During the summer months, bees store more honey than they can use and beekeepers harvest this surplus.
For every pound of honey harvested, the hive uses eight pounds for everyday activities. It's estimated that the bee must fly the equivalent of three orbits around the Earth to gather enough nectar for a pound of honey.
Honey, like table sugar (sucrose), contains glucose (dextrose) and fructose (fruit sugar). Honey is composed of 17 percent water, 38 percent fructose, 31 percent glucose and smaller amounts of other sugars, like sucrose. In table sugar, two monosaccharides are bonded together, and in honey, some of them are free. Whether you eat monosaccharides individually, as in honey, or linked together, as in table sugar, they end up the same way in the body - as glucose and fructose. . .
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that honey not be given to infants under 1 year. Honey may contain the spores of Clostridium botulinum, which can cause botulism. Bees may pick up environmental pollutants.
The significant difference between sugar sources is not between "natural" honey and "refined" sugar. Be wary of exaggerated nutrition claims that one product is more nutritious than another because it contains honey. Although pollen and royal jelly do wonders for bees, there is no evidence that they do anything out of ordinary for humans. There are plenty of reasons for liking honey, but nutrition and medicinal value are not two of them.
Patricia Aaron is the Extension Home Economist and a professor with the Bernalillo County Cooperative Extension Service and New Mexico State University.
Comments may be sent through: http://www.abqjournal.com/letters_form.htm and speakup@abqjournal.com
By Patricia Aaron, Albuquerque Journal (USA), 1/18/2006
Honey is the nectar of flowers that is collected, modified and concentrated by the honeybee. During the summer months, bees store more honey than they can use and beekeepers harvest this surplus.
For every pound of honey harvested, the hive uses eight pounds for everyday activities. It's estimated that the bee must fly the equivalent of three orbits around the Earth to gather enough nectar for a pound of honey.
Honey, like table sugar (sucrose), contains glucose (dextrose) and fructose (fruit sugar). Honey is composed of 17 percent water, 38 percent fructose, 31 percent glucose and smaller amounts of other sugars, like sucrose. In table sugar, two monosaccharides are bonded together, and in honey, some of them are free. Whether you eat monosaccharides individually, as in honey, or linked together, as in table sugar, they end up the same way in the body - as glucose and fructose. . .
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that honey not be given to infants under 1 year. Honey may contain the spores of Clostridium botulinum, which can cause botulism. Bees may pick up environmental pollutants.
The significant difference between sugar sources is not between "natural" honey and "refined" sugar. Be wary of exaggerated nutrition claims that one product is more nutritious than another because it contains honey. Although pollen and royal jelly do wonders for bees, there is no evidence that they do anything out of ordinary for humans. There are plenty of reasons for liking honey, but nutrition and medicinal value are not two of them.
Patricia Aaron is the Extension Home Economist and a professor with the Bernalillo County Cooperative Extension Service and New Mexico State University.
Comments may be sent through: http://www.abqjournal.com/letters_form.htm and speakup@abqjournal.com
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
French Study: Bees Reared in Cities 'Healthier'
BBC News, 1/17/2006
Bees reared in cities are healthier and more productive than their country cousins, a study by French beekeepers' association Unaf has found.
Urban bees enjoy higher temperatures and a wider variety of plant life for pollination, while avoiding ill-effects of pesticides, the study said.
At the same time they can filter out city pollution such as exhaust fumes.
The study prompted Unaf to start a campaign promoting beekeeping in urban parks, on balconies and on roofs.
Beekeepers say urban bees' productivity can be up to four times that of their rural counterparts. . .
Bees reared in cities are healthier and more productive than their country cousins, a study by French beekeepers' association Unaf has found.
Urban bees enjoy higher temperatures and a wider variety of plant life for pollination, while avoiding ill-effects of pesticides, the study said.
At the same time they can filter out city pollution such as exhaust fumes.
The study prompted Unaf to start a campaign promoting beekeeping in urban parks, on balconies and on roofs.
Beekeepers say urban bees' productivity can be up to four times that of their rural counterparts. . .
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
Translate Apitherapy News Into Your Native Language
FREE translations of Apitherapy News content may be obtained by going to: http://www.freetranslation.com/free/web.htm
Select the appropriate language and then enter the web address: http://apitherapy.blogspot.com/
The translations may not be entirely accurate, but they will give you a better idea of an article's content.
Select the appropriate language and then enter the web address: http://apitherapy.blogspot.com/
The translations may not be entirely accurate, but they will give you a better idea of an article's content.
Spanish Apitherapy Congress
The 2nd Spanish Apitherapy Congress will be held May 19-21, 2006, in Madrid.
Researcher Who Studied Dental Use of Propolis Wins Award
Work on Microbes Earns Honors for Two Dental Researchers
University of Rochester Medical Center, 1/17/06
Two University of Rochester Medical Center scientists who study ways to stop the microbes that cause cavities have been awarded international prizes for their research.
Oral biologist Hyun (Michel) Koo, D.D.S., Ph.D., and microbiologist Robert Marquis, Ph.D., both researchers in the Center for Oral Biology, will receive Distinguished Scientist Awards at a meeting in Australia in June of the International Association of Dental Research, the largest organization of dental researchers in the world. The awards recognize outstanding and innovative achievement in dental research worldwide. . .
Koo is a dentist who became interested in food science and has used his knowledge of both fields to try to stop bacteria like Streptococcus mutans that cause cavities. Such bacteria munch on the sugars that we eat and then secrete acids that dig holes in our teeth. Koo, who has been honored four times previously by IADR and has been with the University since 1999, seeks to identify specific compounds in foods and other natural products that help prevent cavities. He has identified compounds in propolis, a sticky substance made by honeybees to protect their hives, that inhibit the activity of a key enzyme that forms dental plaque. . .
University of Rochester Medical Center, 1/17/06
Two University of Rochester Medical Center scientists who study ways to stop the microbes that cause cavities have been awarded international prizes for their research.
Oral biologist Hyun (Michel) Koo, D.D.S., Ph.D., and microbiologist Robert Marquis, Ph.D., both researchers in the Center for Oral Biology, will receive Distinguished Scientist Awards at a meeting in Australia in June of the International Association of Dental Research, the largest organization of dental researchers in the world. The awards recognize outstanding and innovative achievement in dental research worldwide. . .
Koo is a dentist who became interested in food science and has used his knowledge of both fields to try to stop bacteria like Streptococcus mutans that cause cavities. Such bacteria munch on the sugars that we eat and then secrete acids that dig holes in our teeth. Koo, who has been honored four times previously by IADR and has been with the University since 1999, seeks to identify specific compounds in foods and other natural products that help prevent cavities. He has identified compounds in propolis, a sticky substance made by honeybees to protect their hives, that inhibit the activity of a key enzyme that forms dental plaque. . .
Monday, January 16, 2006
New 'Hibernation Diet' Features Use of Honey
Taste of Honey to Make Winter Diet More Palatable
By Julia Horton, The Sctosman, 1/16/2006
The bookshelves groaning under the weight of diet tomes, are about to get heavier with the arrival this month of The Hibernation Diet, which has been devised by Edinburgh pharmacist and sports nutritionist Mike McInnes and his son Stuart.
Basically it promises you can lose weight while you sleep. Oh and that you shouldn't exercise much but you should eat late and eat a lot of honey...
The Hibernation Diet, by Mike and Stuart McInnes with Maggie Stanfield, priced £7.99, is published this month by Souvenir Press.
Hibernation basics
The best time to burn fat is while you are asleep - you burn more fat sleeping than doing anything else, including exercising
• When you eat fructose, like honey, it is converted to glucose in the liver. This goes on to stabilise blood sugar levels and allows the body to activate recovery hormones which rebuild muscle and skin cells.
• Honey is the best source of fructose because it contains fructose in its natural form, in a one-to-one ratio with glucose, which is the right balance for the body to use.
• The recovery hormones are fuelled by fat, so rather than working to regulate blood sugar, when you eat honey before going to bed the body burns more fat.
• You can also increase the amount of fat you burn by doing what is known as resistance exercise.
• Instead of having to spend hours on the treadmill and in aerobics classes, this can be done with 15-minute weights sessions three times a week, according to the diet...
By Julia Horton, The Sctosman, 1/16/2006
The bookshelves groaning under the weight of diet tomes, are about to get heavier with the arrival this month of The Hibernation Diet, which has been devised by Edinburgh pharmacist and sports nutritionist Mike McInnes and his son Stuart.
Basically it promises you can lose weight while you sleep. Oh and that you shouldn't exercise much but you should eat late and eat a lot of honey...
The Hibernation Diet, by Mike and Stuart McInnes with Maggie Stanfield, priced £7.99, is published this month by Souvenir Press.
Hibernation basics
The best time to burn fat is while you are asleep - you burn more fat sleeping than doing anything else, including exercising
• When you eat fructose, like honey, it is converted to glucose in the liver. This goes on to stabilise blood sugar levels and allows the body to activate recovery hormones which rebuild muscle and skin cells.
• Honey is the best source of fructose because it contains fructose in its natural form, in a one-to-one ratio with glucose, which is the right balance for the body to use.
• The recovery hormones are fuelled by fat, so rather than working to regulate blood sugar, when you eat honey before going to bed the body burns more fat.
• You can also increase the amount of fat you burn by doing what is known as resistance exercise.
• Instead of having to spend hours on the treadmill and in aerobics classes, this can be done with 15-minute weights sessions three times a week, according to the diet...
Sunday, January 15, 2006
Propolis as a UV Protector
Photoacoustic Spectroscopy to Evaluate the Potentiality of Bee-Propolis as UV Protector
Journal de Physique IV, Vol. 125 (June 2005)
Abstract: In this work, the Photoacoustic Spectroscopy was employed to evaluate the potentiality of bee-propolis as UV protector. The experiments were performed to obtain the creams optical absorption spectra in the UV spectral region and also to evaluate in vivo the penetration rate of the obtained product in humans. The results showed the spectral response of the developed bee-propolis creams, and also revealed that two hours after the application about 40% of the cream signal was still detected on the skin surface.
Journal de Physique IV, Vol. 125 (June 2005)
Abstract: In this work, the Photoacoustic Spectroscopy was employed to evaluate the potentiality of bee-propolis as UV protector. The experiments were performed to obtain the creams optical absorption spectra in the UV spectral region and also to evaluate in vivo the penetration rate of the obtained product in humans. The results showed the spectral response of the developed bee-propolis creams, and also revealed that two hours after the application about 40% of the cream signal was still detected on the skin surface.
Determination of Sugars in Royal Jelly by HPLC
Giulio Sesta, Apidologie, Jaunaury-February 2006, 84-90
Abstract - A HPLC method with refractive index detection (RID) was developed for sugar determination in royal jelly (RJ). The method enables the determination of the three main sugars of royal jelly (fructose, glucose and sucrose), and maltose, which is sometimes present in RJ. The method ensures adequate sensitivity, quantitative recoveries, does not suffer from matrix interferences and shows good repeatability. It was used for the analysis of 97 RJ samples of different origin and the results were found to be in agreement with those reported in literature. The method is simple and suitable for a routine quality control of RJ sugar composition and represents an alternative to gas chromatographic methods, which require more complex purification and derivatisation steps.
E-Mail: giulio.sesta@apicoltura.org
Abstract - A HPLC method with refractive index detection (RID) was developed for sugar determination in royal jelly (RJ). The method enables the determination of the three main sugars of royal jelly (fructose, glucose and sucrose), and maltose, which is sometimes present in RJ. The method ensures adequate sensitivity, quantitative recoveries, does not suffer from matrix interferences and shows good repeatability. It was used for the analysis of 97 RJ samples of different origin and the results were found to be in agreement with those reported in literature. The method is simple and suitable for a routine quality control of RJ sugar composition and represents an alternative to gas chromatographic methods, which require more complex purification and derivatisation steps.
E-Mail: giulio.sesta@apicoltura.org
Products: Honey and Propolis Elixir for Children
Comforting Comvita
Community Pharmacy, 1/12/2006
For children, Comvita markets the Comvita Children's Herbal Elixir (pounds 8.70, 200ml).
Combining propolis extract and active manuka honey, the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory elixir can help relieve colds, coughs and sore throats. Comvita has also now acquired the New Zealand Natural Food Co.
Community Pharmacy, 1/12/2006
For children, Comvita markets the Comvita Children's Herbal Elixir (pounds 8.70, 200ml).
Combining propolis extract and active manuka honey, the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory elixir can help relieve colds, coughs and sore throats. Comvita has also now acquired the New Zealand Natural Food Co.
Saturday, January 14, 2006
Pakistan Now Self-Reliant in Honey
Daily Times (Pakistan), 1/15/2006
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has attained self-sufficiency in honey production and is now able to export prime quality produce at competitive price in the open global markets. According to official sources, around 240,000 colonies of honeybee in all four provinces and Azad Kashmir were working with advanced technology. Women can easily adopt the profession as an income generating activity, as it does not require big investments or infrastructure. . .
Bees for Development 2006 Safari to Trinidad & Tobago
Trinidad & Tobago, 13 – 23 March 2006
Join us on our award winning Safari to Trinidad & Tobago and experience beekeeping Caribbean style! Spectacular beaches, local cuisine and a warm welcome await you from your host, Gladstone Solomon, President of the Tobago Apicultural Society.
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has attained self-sufficiency in honey production and is now able to export prime quality produce at competitive price in the open global markets. According to official sources, around 240,000 colonies of honeybee in all four provinces and Azad Kashmir were working with advanced technology. Women can easily adopt the profession as an income generating activity, as it does not require big investments or infrastructure. . .
Bees for Development 2006 Safari to Trinidad & Tobago
Trinidad & Tobago, 13 – 23 March 2006
Join us on our award winning Safari to Trinidad & Tobago and experience beekeeping Caribbean style! Spectacular beaches, local cuisine and a warm welcome await you from your host, Gladstone Solomon, President of the Tobago Apicultural Society.
Contaminants of Bee Products
By Stefan Bogdanov, Apidologie, Vol. 37, January-February 2006
Agroscope Liebefeld Posieux, Swiss Bee Research Centre, Liebefeld, 3003 Bern, Switzerland
Abstract - Bee products can be contaminated from different sources. The contamination can arise from beekeeping practices or from the environment. Environmental contaminants are covered in the first part of the review. They are: the heavy metals lead, cadmium and mercury, radioactive isotopes, organic pollutants, pesticides (insecticides, fungicides, herbicides and bactericides), pathogenic bacteria and genetically modified organisms. The second part of the review discusses contaminants from beekeeping. The main ones are acaricides: lipophylic synthetic compounds and non-toxic substances such as organic acids and components of essential oils; and antibiotics used for the control of bee brood diseases, mainly tetracyclines, streptomycine, sulfonamides and chloramphenicol. Other substances used in beekeeping play a minor role: para-dichlorobenzene, used for the control of wax moth and chemical repellents. The degree of contamination of honey, pollen, beeswax, propolis and royal jelly by the different contaminants is reviewed.
E-Mail Stefan Bogdanov at: stefan.bogdanov@alp.admin.ch
Agroscope Liebefeld Posieux, Swiss Bee Research Centre, Liebefeld, 3003 Bern, Switzerland
Abstract - Bee products can be contaminated from different sources. The contamination can arise from beekeeping practices or from the environment. Environmental contaminants are covered in the first part of the review. They are: the heavy metals lead, cadmium and mercury, radioactive isotopes, organic pollutants, pesticides (insecticides, fungicides, herbicides and bactericides), pathogenic bacteria and genetically modified organisms. The second part of the review discusses contaminants from beekeeping. The main ones are acaricides: lipophylic synthetic compounds and non-toxic substances such as organic acids and components of essential oils; and antibiotics used for the control of bee brood diseases, mainly tetracyclines, streptomycine, sulfonamides and chloramphenicol. Other substances used in beekeeping play a minor role: para-dichlorobenzene, used for the control of wax moth and chemical repellents. The degree of contamination of honey, pollen, beeswax, propolis and royal jelly by the different contaminants is reviewed.
E-Mail Stefan Bogdanov at: stefan.bogdanov@alp.admin.ch
Friday, January 13, 2006
Bee Attack Kills One, Injures Three in India
Mason killed, Three Injured in Honey Bees Attack in Uttar Pradesh
New Kerela (India), 1/13/06
Jaunpur: A mason has been killed and three others injured in an attack by honey bees in this district of East Uttar Pradesh, police said today. Police said here that Shiv Ram Rajgir was killed in the attack in Mirganj area last evening while three others who tried to save Rajgir were injured and have been admitted to the hospital.
New Kerela (India), 1/13/06
Jaunpur: A mason has been killed and three others injured in an attack by honey bees in this district of East Uttar Pradesh, police said today. Police said here that Shiv Ram Rajgir was killed in the attack in Mirganj area last evening while three others who tried to save Rajgir were injured and have been admitted to the hospital.
Reseachers Solve Riddle of How Bees Fly
Official: Bees Can Fly
Iain Thomson, vnunet.com (Netherlands), 1/12/06
Scientists at the California Institute of Technology have finally solved the riddle of how honey bees manage to fly.
French etymologist August Magnan wrote in the introduction of his book Le Vol Des Insects published in 1934 that it was aerodynamically impossible for a honey bee to fly.
The incident passed into urban legend and is commonly used by creationists to point out the deficiencies of science in explaining the natural world.
The researchers used robotic simulators with sensors built in to mimic the movement of a bee's wings in flight.
They also filmed bees flying in a mix of helium and oxygen that is less dense than air in order to make the insects work harder and thus amplify their actions.
The team found that bees flap their wings much faster than similarly sized insects and use short, choppy wing strokes to generate the required power.
When loaded down with pollen, bees increase the arc of their wing strokes rather than speeding up the number of beats. . .
Iain Thomson, vnunet.com (Netherlands), 1/12/06
Scientists at the California Institute of Technology have finally solved the riddle of how honey bees manage to fly.
French etymologist August Magnan wrote in the introduction of his book Le Vol Des Insects published in 1934 that it was aerodynamically impossible for a honey bee to fly.
The incident passed into urban legend and is commonly used by creationists to point out the deficiencies of science in explaining the natural world.
The researchers used robotic simulators with sensors built in to mimic the movement of a bee's wings in flight.
They also filmed bees flying in a mix of helium and oxygen that is less dense than air in order to make the insects work harder and thus amplify their actions.
The team found that bees flap their wings much faster than similarly sized insects and use short, choppy wing strokes to generate the required power.
When loaded down with pollen, bees increase the arc of their wing strokes rather than speeding up the number of beats. . .
Thursday, January 12, 2006
Antibacterial Activity in Selected Honeys
By Randy W. Worobo, Ph.D., The Nucleus, National Honey Board (USA)
Honey Use Up in UK
Marmalade is Dropped for a Taste of Honey
Tim Hall, Telegraph (UK), 1/10/06
Sales of honey have soared in the past year while those of marmalade and jam continue to fall, according to new figures.
A generation ago honey came in just two varieties: clear and set. But shoppers are now able to choose from dozens of types, including Australian, South American, sunflower, eucalyptus and lavender.
Experts said yesterday that the new choice was largely responsible for persuading an extra 490,000 households to buy honey in the past year - an increase of 4.5 per cent. . .
Tim Hall, Telegraph (UK), 1/10/06
Sales of honey have soared in the past year while those of marmalade and jam continue to fall, according to new figures.
A generation ago honey came in just two varieties: clear and set. But shoppers are now able to choose from dozens of types, including Australian, South American, sunflower, eucalyptus and lavender.
Experts said yesterday that the new choice was largely responsible for persuading an extra 490,000 households to buy honey in the past year - an increase of 4.5 per cent. . .
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
Honey at Bedtime Helps Burn Fat, Increase Stamina
Sweet Dreams of a New Slimline Start to the Year
By Ruth Armstrong, Edinburgh Evening News, 1/10/06
It advocates the two things that most dieters avoid - eating at bedtime and ducking the gym. But the hibernation diet promises to help people lose weight while they sleep.
The strategy, developed by an Edinburgh pharmacist and sports nutritionist, is said to be used by champion boxer Alex Arthur and endorsed by Olympic gold-winning cyclist Chris Hoy.
The diet, hailed as the new Atkins, advises eating a couple of teaspoons of honey before bedtime and training with weights instead of gruelling aerobic workouts.
While Mike McInnes and his son Stuart were helping athletes with nutrition, they discovered that eating fructose-rich food such as honey, helped burn fat and increase stamina.
They also found that the best time to burn fat is while you are asleep - you burn more fat sleeping than doing anything else, including exercising.
When you eat fructose, it is converted to glucose in the liver. This stabilises blood sugar levels and allows the body to activate recovery hormones which rebuild muscle and skin cells.
These hormones are fuelled by fat, so rather than working to regulate blood sugar, when you eat honey before going to bed the body burns more fat. . .
By Ruth Armstrong, Edinburgh Evening News, 1/10/06
It advocates the two things that most dieters avoid - eating at bedtime and ducking the gym. But the hibernation diet promises to help people lose weight while they sleep.
The strategy, developed by an Edinburgh pharmacist and sports nutritionist, is said to be used by champion boxer Alex Arthur and endorsed by Olympic gold-winning cyclist Chris Hoy.
The diet, hailed as the new Atkins, advises eating a couple of teaspoons of honey before bedtime and training with weights instead of gruelling aerobic workouts.
While Mike McInnes and his son Stuart were helping athletes with nutrition, they discovered that eating fructose-rich food such as honey, helped burn fat and increase stamina.
They also found that the best time to burn fat is while you are asleep - you burn more fat sleeping than doing anything else, including exercising.
When you eat fructose, it is converted to glucose in the liver. This stabilises blood sugar levels and allows the body to activate recovery hormones which rebuild muscle and skin cells.
These hormones are fuelled by fat, so rather than working to regulate blood sugar, when you eat honey before going to bed the body burns more fat. . .
Propolis and Bird Flu
Bee Propolis May Provide Some Protection Against Bird Flu
Shop New Zealand, 1/10/2006
With the growing concern about Bird Flu there is increasing interest worldwide in alternative natural products that may help provide some added protection.
Bee Propolis is one product that may provide some protection. Propolis is used by honey bees to protect the bee hive against infections. It is a natural substance that may help protect people against infections such as the Bird Flu. . .
Shop New Zealand, 1/10/2006
With the growing concern about Bird Flu there is increasing interest worldwide in alternative natural products that may help provide some added protection.
Bee Propolis is one product that may provide some protection. Propolis is used by honey bees to protect the bee hive against infections. It is a natural substance that may help protect people against infections such as the Bird Flu. . .
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
'World Apitherapy Day' to Celebrate Health Benefits of Bee Products
First Annual Event Marks Birth of Scientist Who Studied Bee Venom
(MIAMI, FL, 1/10/2006) – March 30, 2006, will mark the first annual celebration of "World Apitherapy Day," an event designed to enhance international understanding of the therapeutic use and health benefits of bee products. . .
The use of bee products as 'green medicine" is growing worldwide. A recently-concluded program in Cuba, sponsored by the Apitherapy Commission of Apimondia, trained 600 medical personnel to treat conditions such as antibiotic-resistant infections, septicemia and burns. (Apimondia is the International Federation of Beekeepers' Associations. A similar program, co-sponsored by the United Nations, is being planned in Burkina Faso.
'Bee hive products offer tremendous benefits to developing nations in need of low-cost, indigenous and self-sustaining health care systems," said Dr. Moisés Asís, one of the international coordinators of Bees for Life - World Apitherapy Network Inc.
Moisés said March 30 was chosen for the first annual World Apitherapy Day because it is the birth date of Dr. Philipp Terc (formerly Filip Tertsch), the first scientific researcher to investigate the medical uses of 'apitoxin," or bee venom. Terc was born on March 30, 1844, in Praporiste, Bohemia (Czech Republic).
Terc's home town is also near Passau, Germany, the location of the upcoming 4th German Congress and Workshop on Apitherapy (March 24-29, 2006). Participants in that event will visit Praporiste to meet Czech beekeepers and apitherapists.
Dr. Stefan Stangaciu, a specialist in family medicine and president of the German Apitherapy Society, is the main presenter at the Apitherapy conference in Passau. Stangaciu has presented scientific papers on Apitherapy at more than 100 conferences, seminars and workshops in 34 countries.
Products promoting World Apitherapy Day are available at: www.cafepress.com/apitherapy (All proceeds will go to the World Apitherapy Network.) . . .
CONTACT: Dr. Moisés Asís, 305-349-1283, E-Mail: moisesasis@comcast.net; Dr. Stefan Stangaciu, E-Mail: drstangaciu@apitherapy.com
(MIAMI, FL, 1/10/2006) – March 30, 2006, will mark the first annual celebration of "World Apitherapy Day," an event designed to enhance international understanding of the therapeutic use and health benefits of bee products. . .
The use of bee products as 'green medicine" is growing worldwide. A recently-concluded program in Cuba, sponsored by the Apitherapy Commission of Apimondia, trained 600 medical personnel to treat conditions such as antibiotic-resistant infections, septicemia and burns. (Apimondia is the International Federation of Beekeepers' Associations. A similar program, co-sponsored by the United Nations, is being planned in Burkina Faso.
'Bee hive products offer tremendous benefits to developing nations in need of low-cost, indigenous and self-sustaining health care systems," said Dr. Moisés Asís, one of the international coordinators of Bees for Life - World Apitherapy Network Inc.
Moisés said March 30 was chosen for the first annual World Apitherapy Day because it is the birth date of Dr. Philipp Terc (formerly Filip Tertsch), the first scientific researcher to investigate the medical uses of 'apitoxin," or bee venom. Terc was born on March 30, 1844, in Praporiste, Bohemia (Czech Republic).
Terc's home town is also near Passau, Germany, the location of the upcoming 4th German Congress and Workshop on Apitherapy (March 24-29, 2006). Participants in that event will visit Praporiste to meet Czech beekeepers and apitherapists.
Dr. Stefan Stangaciu, a specialist in family medicine and president of the German Apitherapy Society, is the main presenter at the Apitherapy conference in Passau. Stangaciu has presented scientific papers on Apitherapy at more than 100 conferences, seminars and workshops in 34 countries.
Products promoting World Apitherapy Day are available at: www.cafepress.com/apitherapy (All proceeds will go to the World Apitherapy Network.) . . .
CONTACT: Dr. Moisés Asís, 305-349-1283, E-Mail: moisesasis@comcast.net; Dr. Stefan Stangaciu, E-Mail: drstangaciu@apitherapy.com
Monday, January 09, 2006
Beekeeping Relieves Stress
‘There’s nothing better than honey from your backyard’
The Island’s two leading beekeepers reveal the stress beating aspects of the sweet science
By Ruth O’Kelly-Lynch, The Royal Gazette (Bermuda), 1/8/06
The thought of tending to thousands of bees as a way to relieve stress might sound like an oxymoron to some, but to the Islands two leading beekeepers it makes perfect sense. . .
The Island’s two leading beekeepers reveal the stress beating aspects of the sweet science
By Ruth O’Kelly-Lynch, The Royal Gazette (Bermuda), 1/8/06
The thought of tending to thousands of bees as a way to relieve stress might sound like an oxymoron to some, but to the Islands two leading beekeepers it makes perfect sense. . .
Sunday, January 08, 2006
New Apitherapy Book
Apitherapy - Guidelines for More Effective Use
By Nailya Khismatullin (2005), International Bee Research Association
This book summarises the treatment schemes, giving short descriptions of the impact mechanisms of all known beekeeping products on the pathology of various diseases and illustrated them with examples from practice. It is hoped that the book will be of interest to a wide reading audience, as many methods and recipes in this book are easy to use.
Click on "Other Publications."
By Nailya Khismatullin (2005), International Bee Research Association
This book summarises the treatment schemes, giving short descriptions of the impact mechanisms of all known beekeeping products on the pathology of various diseases and illustrated them with examples from practice. It is hoped that the book will be of interest to a wide reading audience, as many methods and recipes in this book are easy to use.
Click on "Other Publications."
Seattle Apitherapy Course Postponed
The Charles Mraz Apitherapy Course scheduled for Feb. 16-19 in Seattle has been postponed.
Saturday, January 07, 2006
Order World Apitherapy Day Products Online
Products announcing the first annual World Apitheray Day are now available for purchase online. Shirts, tote bags and posters feature a 16th century woodcut of a beekeeper and "World Apitherapy Day" translated into the official languages of the United Nations, including Chinese, Spanish, Russian, French, and Arabic.
UK: GM Crops May Contaminate Honey
Government's GM Exclusion Zone 'Pathetic'
Friends of the Earth today described new quarantine zones around GM crops trials as “pathetically inadequate”.
The Government was forced to review the separation distances around GM crops following concerns that GM pollen might contaminate conventional and organic crops and honey. . .
Adrian Bebb, GM campaigner at Friends of the Earth said:
“Once again the Government has shown reckless arrogance over the dangers of GM crops.The public have made it perfectly clear that they do not want GM food. This announcement shows that the Government cares more about the interests of the biotech industry than it does about consumer choice. The livelihoods of conventional and organic farmers and beekeepers around the country who wish to produce GM-free food are now at risk.”
Friends of the Earth today described new quarantine zones around GM crops trials as “pathetically inadequate”.
The Government was forced to review the separation distances around GM crops following concerns that GM pollen might contaminate conventional and organic crops and honey. . .
Adrian Bebb, GM campaigner at Friends of the Earth said:
“Once again the Government has shown reckless arrogance over the dangers of GM crops.The public have made it perfectly clear that they do not want GM food. This announcement shows that the Government cares more about the interests of the biotech industry than it does about consumer choice. The livelihoods of conventional and organic farmers and beekeepers around the country who wish to produce GM-free food are now at risk.”
Friday, January 06, 2006
Research: Foraging Stimulates Bee Brains
Stimulation of Muscarinic Receptors Mimics Experience-Dependent Plasticity in the Honey Bee Brain
Nyla Ismail, Gene E. Robinson and Susan E. Fahrbach
PNAS, January 3, 2006, vol. 103, no. 1, 207-211
Honey bees begin life working in the hive. At 3 weeks of age, they shift to visiting flowers to forage for pollen and nectar. Foraging is a complex task associated with enlargement of the mushroom bodies, a brain region important in insects for certain forms of learning and memory. We report here that foraging bees had a larger volume of mushroom body neuropil than did age-matched bees confined to the hive. This result indicates that direct experience of the world outside the hive causes mushroom body neuropil growth in bees. We also show that oral treatment of caged bees with pilocarpine, a muscarinic agonist, induced an increase in the volume of the neuropil similar to that seen after a week of foraging experience. Effects of pilocarpine were blocked by scopolamine, a muscarinic antagonist. Our results suggest that signaling in cholinergic pathways couples experience to structural brain plasticity.
E-mail: nismail@life.uiuc.edu or generobi@life.uiuc.edu
Nyla Ismail, Gene E. Robinson and Susan E. Fahrbach
PNAS, January 3, 2006, vol. 103, no. 1, 207-211
Honey bees begin life working in the hive. At 3 weeks of age, they shift to visiting flowers to forage for pollen and nectar. Foraging is a complex task associated with enlargement of the mushroom bodies, a brain region important in insects for certain forms of learning and memory. We report here that foraging bees had a larger volume of mushroom body neuropil than did age-matched bees confined to the hive. This result indicates that direct experience of the world outside the hive causes mushroom body neuropil growth in bees. We also show that oral treatment of caged bees with pilocarpine, a muscarinic agonist, induced an increase in the volume of the neuropil similar to that seen after a week of foraging experience. Effects of pilocarpine were blocked by scopolamine, a muscarinic antagonist. Our results suggest that signaling in cholinergic pathways couples experience to structural brain plasticity.
E-mail: nismail@life.uiuc.edu or generobi@life.uiuc.edu
Thursday, January 05, 2006
ASU Researchers Find Link Between Social Behavior, Maternal Traits in Bees
One of the puzzling questions in the evolution of bees is how some species developed social behaviors. Arizona State University Life Sciences associate professor Gro Amdam thinks part of the answer can be traced back to bee reproductive traits.
A paper describing Amdam's experiments, "Complex social behavior derived from maternal reproductive traits," is the cover story of the current issue (Jan. 5, 2006) of Nature. Additional authors include M. Kim Fondrk and Robert Page from Arizona State University, and Angela Csondes from the University of California, Davis.
Honeybees live in highly complex communal societies that include divisions of labor among worker bees. Workers are female bees whose jobs include cleaning, maintaining and defending the hive, raising the young and foraging for nectar and pollen.
Other species of bees, like carpenter bees, do not engage in social behavior and instead lead solitary lives. This has prompted researchers to look into how social structures and divisions of labor have arisen in bees from their solitary ancestors. Amdam's research supports the idea that elements of the reproductive behavior of those ancestors evolved to form a basis for social living and divisions of labor.
This insight provides evidence for how complex social behavior evolves--evidence that could have value for studies of social behavior in other animals, possibly even humans. (more)
A paper describing Amdam's experiments, "Complex social behavior derived from maternal reproductive traits," is the cover story of the current issue (Jan. 5, 2006) of Nature. Additional authors include M. Kim Fondrk and Robert Page from Arizona State University, and Angela Csondes from the University of California, Davis.
Honeybees live in highly complex communal societies that include divisions of labor among worker bees. Workers are female bees whose jobs include cleaning, maintaining and defending the hive, raising the young and foraging for nectar and pollen.
Other species of bees, like carpenter bees, do not engage in social behavior and instead lead solitary lives. This has prompted researchers to look into how social structures and divisions of labor have arisen in bees from their solitary ancestors. Amdam's research supports the idea that elements of the reproductive behavior of those ancestors evolved to form a basis for social living and divisions of labor.
This insight provides evidence for how complex social behavior evolves--evidence that could have value for studies of social behavior in other animals, possibly even humans. (more)
Wednesday, January 04, 2006
Treating Corneal Ulcers with Honey
In the December issue of the Journal of the American Apitherapy Society, Dr. Mamdouh AbulRhman, professor of pediatrics on the Faculty of Medicine at Ain Shams University in Egypt describes treating a corneal ulcer with topical honey. The patient had suffered from the ulcer, apparently caused by infection, for seven months. The ulcer failed to improve through the use of antibiotics, antiviral agents and corticosteroids.
Raw honey was applied twice daily. The article contains a series of photographs of the patient’s eye showing a marked improvement in his condition.
Raw honey was applied twice daily. The article contains a series of photographs of the patient’s eye showing a marked improvement in his condition.
Tuesday, January 03, 2006
Medicinal Properties of Honey Recognized in Uganda
ADB Pledges $9 Million to Support Honey Sector
Daily Monitor (Uganda), 12/2/2006
The African Development (ADB) has pledged a $5 million (about Shs9 billion) grant and $4 million (Shs7.9 billion) loan to honey producers in the country to boost their production capacity. . .
Honey has a variety of recognized and clinically proven medicinal properties. Disease including diarrhea, coughs, measles, sore throats, and burns/scalds among others have and continue to be widely treated either by the application of honey alone or honey-based mixtures.
However, the national honey production in the country is, by and large, still at or below the subsistence level, and domestic consumption is generally limited to usage of honey and its products as a 'natural' medicine. . .
Daily Monitor (Uganda), 12/2/2006
The African Development (ADB) has pledged a $5 million (about Shs9 billion) grant and $4 million (Shs7.9 billion) loan to honey producers in the country to boost their production capacity. . .
Honey has a variety of recognized and clinically proven medicinal properties. Disease including diarrhea, coughs, measles, sore throats, and burns/scalds among others have and continue to be widely treated either by the application of honey alone or honey-based mixtures.
However, the national honey production in the country is, by and large, still at or below the subsistence level, and domestic consumption is generally limited to usage of honey and its products as a 'natural' medicine. . .
Monday, January 02, 2006
Help Translate ‘World Apitherapy Day’ into the Official Languages of the UN
English: World Apitherapy Day
French: Journée mondiale de l'apithérapie
Arabic (modern standard): اليوم العالمي للعلاج بمنتجات النحل
Chinese (modern standard): 世界蜂針研究天
Russian: Mировой день апитерапии
Spanish: Día Mundial de la Apiterapia
Offer suggestions by clicking on the “comments” link below.
French: Journée mondiale de l'apithérapie
Arabic (modern standard): اليوم العالمي للعلاج بمنتجات النحل
Chinese (modern standard): 世界蜂針研究天
Russian: Mировой день апитерапии
Spanish: Día Mundial de la Apiterapia
Offer suggestions by clicking on the “comments” link below.
Help Edit the 'Apitherapy' Entry in Wikipedia
Wikipedia is a free-content encyclopedia, written collaboratively by people from all around the world. The site is a wiki, which means that anyone with access to an Internet-connected computer can edit entries simply by clicking on the "edit this page" link.
SEE: Apitherapy
SEE: Apitherapy
Drug Made from Beeswax Helps Lower Cholesterol
Joe Graedon and Teresa Graedon, The Bradenton Herald (Florida), 12/22/05
What can you tell me about policosanol? A friend has lowered her cholesterol by 50 points over the last year by taking it.
Policosanol is made from sugar cane wax, rice or beeswax. Studies have shown that this compound can lower bad LDL cholesterol. A new study published in the journal Clinical Drug Investigation (November 2005) confirms that policosanol lowers total cholesterol. Side effects are uncommon but may include digestive upset, skin rash and headache.
What can you tell me about policosanol? A friend has lowered her cholesterol by 50 points over the last year by taking it.
Policosanol is made from sugar cane wax, rice or beeswax. Studies have shown that this compound can lower bad LDL cholesterol. A new study published in the journal Clinical Drug Investigation (November 2005) confirms that policosanol lowers total cholesterol. Side effects are uncommon but may include digestive upset, skin rash and headache.
Sunday, January 01, 2006
Recipe for Beeswax Lip Balm
Give Your Lips a Treat
By Kathlyn Meskel, The Oregonian (US), 12/28/05
(Makes 8 individual lip balms)
Materials
- 4 tablespoons refined, natural or white beeswax, grated (available where natural beauty and quality soap-making supplies are sold)
- 2-quart double boiler (see note)
- 2 teaspoons sweet almond oil (available where natural beauty and quality soap-making supplies are sold)
- 4 teaspoons shea butter (see note)
- Metal spoon
- 1/2-teaspoon food-grade lemon, orange or mint oil, optional (available where specialty cooking supplies are sold)
- 8 clear, plastic cosmetic jars (1/4-ounce each), with tight-fitting lids
1. Place the grated beeswax in the top of a double boiler over simmering water on medium-low heat. Watch closely while the wax melts, 1 to 2 minutes.
2. Add the almond oil and shea butter to the melted beeswax. Use metal spoon to stir the mixture until it is melted and well blended. Remove from the heat and add the lemon oil, if desired.
3. Pour an equal portion of the mixture into each container. Let stand until completely set, about 20 minutes.
Note: To protect your cookware, consider using a used double boiler from a thrift or secondhand store.
Shea butter is a rich emollient that comes from the African shea tree. It is available where natural beauty products and quality soap-making products are sold. Other emollients such as kokum butter, mango butter or deodorized cocoa butter can also be used.
By Kathlyn Meskel, The Oregonian (US), 12/28/05
(Makes 8 individual lip balms)
Materials
- 4 tablespoons refined, natural or white beeswax, grated (available where natural beauty and quality soap-making supplies are sold)
- 2-quart double boiler (see note)
- 2 teaspoons sweet almond oil (available where natural beauty and quality soap-making supplies are sold)
- 4 teaspoons shea butter (see note)
- Metal spoon
- 1/2-teaspoon food-grade lemon, orange or mint oil, optional (available where specialty cooking supplies are sold)
- 8 clear, plastic cosmetic jars (1/4-ounce each), with tight-fitting lids
1. Place the grated beeswax in the top of a double boiler over simmering water on medium-low heat. Watch closely while the wax melts, 1 to 2 minutes.
2. Add the almond oil and shea butter to the melted beeswax. Use metal spoon to stir the mixture until it is melted and well blended. Remove from the heat and add the lemon oil, if desired.
3. Pour an equal portion of the mixture into each container. Let stand until completely set, about 20 minutes.
Note: To protect your cookware, consider using a used double boiler from a thrift or secondhand store.
Shea butter is a rich emollient that comes from the African shea tree. It is available where natural beauty products and quality soap-making products are sold. Other emollients such as kokum butter, mango butter or deodorized cocoa butter can also be used.
UK Concerned About 'Unhygienic' Honey
Taxman's Crackdown on Funny Honey
Telegraph (UK), 1/1/2006
Britain's customs men and sniffer dogs have a new target. It isn't drugs. It isn't booze. Actually, it's honey. HM Revenue & Customs officials seized nearly 15 tonnes of honey last year - 10 times the weight of heroin they snatched.
A curious change in priorities, perhaps? "We're concerned that in many countries it is not being produced in a hygienic way," a spokesman explains earnestly. Importing honey from more than 100 places - including Egypt and the Virgin Islands - is a criminal offence that can land you a £500 fine. . .
Telegraph (UK), 1/1/2006
Britain's customs men and sniffer dogs have a new target. It isn't drugs. It isn't booze. Actually, it's honey. HM Revenue & Customs officials seized nearly 15 tonnes of honey last year - 10 times the weight of heroin they snatched.
A curious change in priorities, perhaps? "We're concerned that in many countries it is not being produced in a hygienic way," a spokesman explains earnestly. Importing honey from more than 100 places - including Egypt and the Virgin Islands - is a criminal offence that can land you a £500 fine. . .
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