Apitherapy chambers and hive air inhalation
Today, there is a growing demand for natural approaches to improve well-being, which is why apitherapy chambers are becoming more and more popular. They allow a unique human contact with bees and their products, the effects of which on human psycho-physical well-being were unknown until recently. The beehive has taken on a new meaning and an innovative use that is attracting the interest of more and more beekeepers, apitherapists and medical practices. Not only respiratory diseases, but also anxiety, insomnia, exhaustion and other psychophysical conditions can be improved by this completely natural method. Man came from nature, so let us return to nature when we seek solutions for mind and body.
Slovenia is one of the few countries where apitherapy chambers (or apicomores for short) are a widespread and well-established method, and in recent years there has been a significant increase in other countries. Medikoel plays a major role here, as most apicomers in the wider and narrower region of our country have facilities for hive air inhalation therapy and propolis vapour inhalation – 16 European countries in total, and even New Zealand.
We also contribute to the dissemination of professional knowledge through a practical manual that guides users through the planning of an apiary therapy room and the safe, proper, and professional provision of apitherapy services.
Apitherapy innovation rooted in ancient knowledge
Apicomore and hive air inhalation are a promising natural health support method that combines ancient knowledge about bee products with modern therapeutic practices. Ancient beekeepers found that being in the apiary made them feel very well. They were more resistant to colds, and working with bees soothed and energised them. So it was beekeepers who came up with the idea of creating a place where people could hang out without being stung by bees. The apicomore is the most healing place to be during the bee grazing season, when the air is filled with essential oils from the ripening honey. More details on the composition of hive air in this article.
How hive air inhalation works
The apiary, the centre of beekeeping, is the perfect place to carry out aerosol therapies with the air from the beehive. This therapeutic approach is based on the belief that the air in the hive contains many beneficial substances that can have a beneficial effect on the human body. An apicomore is a special room connected to the beehive but separated by a net or filter that allows air to pass through but not the bees. Inhaling the air from the hive allows aerosols containing the volatile components of honey, propolis, pollen, royal jelly and wax to be inhaled. Breathing hive air helps improve respiratory health, while spending time in apiary therapy rooms and listening to the soothing buzzing of bees promotes relaxation. This is one form of apitherapy, a natural method for improving overall well-being. You can read more about beehive air inhalation, the planning and establishment of apiary therapy rooms, and practical solutions, including floor plans, in our professional manual.
The therapy is suitable for people of all ages, especially those who are exposed to any kind of stress and psychophysical strain, have symptoms of a weak immune system or any kind of respiratory inflammation.
In order to carry out hive air inhalation therapy, the Api Aerosol 2 apitherapy device, which we have developed ourselves, must be installed in the hive. For a close-up look at this innovative device and how to install it on an AŽ, you can watch two videos:
VIDEO 1: Preparing for installation
VIDEO 2: Installing Api Aerosol II on an AŽ hive – Full step-by-step demonstration
What are the benefits of visiting an apicomore?
Hive air has many health benefits:
- Aerosols from the hive contain antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal compounds that can help reduce respiratory tract infections.
- Inhaling these compounds can help reduce inflammation in the body, which is beneficial for conditions such as asthma and bronchitis.
- Contact with bee products strengthens the immune system and helps the body fight disease.
- Honey and propolis have a relaxing effect as aromatherapy, which also helps with stress management and general well-being.
- People with respiratory problems report an improvement in respiratory function after apicomore therapy.
Why is inhaling air from the hive becoming more popular?
While apitherapy is an ancient practice, there is relatively little scientific research in this field. Although more scientific research is needed to fully understand its effects, initial findings and user experiences are promising. Some studies have shown positive effects of inhaling aerosols from the hive on respiratory health and general well-being. One of these is a German study from l. 2017, which confirms the exceptional properties of hive air. Further research is needed to better understand the mechanisms and optimal conditions for therapy.
Today we know that a visit to the apicomore:
- boosts the immune system,
- helps respiratory conditions,
- it works against insomnia, depression, stress, migraines, restlessness in children … and
- improves psycho-physical well-being.
How is the therapy in apicomori?
The therapy usually involves sitting or lying in an apicomore and breathing in air from the hive for a set period of time, usually between 30 minutes and an hour. Sessions may be repeated several times a week, depending on the needs of the individual. The therapy is carried out during the warmer months (April to September) or depending on the weather conditions. Detailed guidelines for its implementation, all key steps, and the applicable regulations can be found in our professional manual.
Aerosol in the apicomore can be inhaled in two ways, either freely or using a special inhaler attached to an opening in the hive. The medicinal apiaerosol inhaled is dispersed by the bees using their wings.
Where to go for hive air inhalation therapy?
If you are a fan of natural methods and want to regenerate your body, if you suffer from acute or chronic respiratory diseases (asthma, bronchitis, laryngitis, etc.), or if you want to improve your general well-being (fatigue, stress, anxiety, etc.), take a look at the list of all the apitherapy chambers and their locations andbook an appointment. This list includes all apitherapy chambers that use our innovative apitherapy devices and most of them are certified to perform apitherapy with these devices.
Let’s say more – let’s breathe health!
For beehive air inhalation in an apiary therapy room, you will use the API AEROSOL II, a device fitted to the hive with an integrated fan that automatically draws in the hive air, requiring no effort from the user. Some apitherapy rooms offer an extended range of services, including inhalation of propolis vapour using the PropoSteam device, which can also be used anywhere, including at home. Inhaling propolis vapour has an antibacterial effect and is highly effective, as it can improve respiratory comfort after just a few breaths. It can also be used to disinfect the air in a room.
A third method used in some apitherapy rooms is aerosol therapy with an ultrasonic nebulizer, which can also be carried out independently at home. However, combining all three methods of apitherapy—the detailed protocol can be found in our manual—provides the most comprehensive support for the respiratory system. Each method contributes in its own way to the care of the respiratory mucosa, making a visit to an apiary therapy room a complete approach to respiratory care at the highest level.
Resources
https://www.dlib.si/details/URN:NBN:SI:doc-4ZJF4XHG
https://apiterapije.si/ponudba/apikomora
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1018364721001105
https://janjabee.si/apiterapija/
https://apipripravki.czs.si/
http://apikultura.si/?page_id=129
