Egyptians used it for embalming. It is a preservative, antioxidant, antibacterial, anti inflammatory; so many benefits. The bees make it from resins of plants, pollen, beeswax. If a creature invades the hive, and the fastidious bees cannot drag it out (say, a mouse dies in the hive), the bees completely cover it in propolis. This is a way to keep the “ill humors” from damaging the brood, workers, queen, beeswax, and honey. Fascinating!