Propolis

What is it?

Propolis is a resinous substance produced by bees from the sap on needle-leaved trees or evergreens. Bees mix this sap with their own discharges and beeswax to create a sticky, greenish-brown product used as a coating to build their hives. This substance has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its various health benefits.

How does it work for medicinal purposes?

Propolis contains a complex mix of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and terpenes, which provide its medicinal properties. It works as an antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting agent. Propolis helps to fight infections, heal wounds, and protect against oxidative stress.

What are the active ingredients that are important for its medicinal properties?

The primary active ingredients in propolis include:

• Flavonoids: Antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.
• Phenolic Acids: Compounds with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Terpenes: Bioactive molecules that contribute to propolis's antibacterial and antiviral effects.

What forms does it come in?

• Raw propolis
• Propolis tinctures or liquid extracts
• Propolis capsules or tablets
• Propolis creams and ointments
• Propolis sprays

What if I have an imbalance or deficiency?

Propolis is not typically used to address specific nutrient deficiencies. However, its rich profile of bioactive compounds can support overall health and bolster the immune system, which can be beneficial for individuals with weakened immunity or frequent infections.

When was it first used for medicinal purposes?

Propolis has been used since ancient times, with records of its use by the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans for its healing properties. It was traditionally applied to wounds to fight infection and promote healing.

What does Propolis help with?

Propolis is a sticky resin. Bees gather it from tree buds and bark. They use it to seal and guard the hive.

Lab tests show it can slow many germs. Human trials are fewer, and many are small. The best human results so far are in blood sugar and mouth care.

• High blood sugar in type 2 diabetes
  Good evidence — several controlled human trials in adults with type 2 diabetes. Several controlled trials tested propolis in adults with type 2 diabetes. Fasting blood sugar went down a little. HbA1c, a three-month sugar score, also got better. Our file does not hold the doses or the trial sizes.
  Evidence grade B
• Sore gums, plaque and mouth ulcers
  Early evidence — clinical studies of propolis mouthwash and dental gel. In clinical studies, people used propolis as a mouthwash or a dental gel. Sore gums were less swollen, and mouth ulcers healed faster. Lab work shows it slows the germs behind plaque and tooth decay.
  Evidence grade C
• Catching colds again and again
  Early evidence — human studies in children and adults; sizes not on file. In human studies, children and adults who took propolis caught fewer colds. Their symptoms also cleared up sooner. Lab work shows it can block cold viruses from making copies of themselves.
  Evidence grade C
• Cold sores on the lips
  Early evidence — small human studies, some against acyclovir cream. In some studies, a propolis extract was put right on the skin. Cold sores healed faster and were less severe. In some of this work, healing time was as good as with acyclovir cream.
  Evidence grade C
• Wounds, burns and skin infections
  Early evidence — human studies in burns, surgical wounds and diabetic ulcers. Propolis has been tried on burns, surgery wounds and foot ulcers from diabetes. Results were hopeful: less swelling and faster repair. On the skin, it forms a layer that holds germs back.
  Evidence grade C
• Middle ear infections in children
  Early evidence — study in children with repeat middle ear infections. One study followed children who kept getting middle ear infections. Those given propolis extract had fewer new infections. The trial size and the dose are not on file.
  Evidence grade C
• Stomach germ H. pylori and gut lining
  Evidence doesn't support this — early human evidence, used alongside standard drugs. H. pylori is the germ behind most stomach ulcers and long-term gastritis. Early human work found propolis cut the amount of this germ. It was used next to standard drugs, not in place of them.
  Evidence grade D
• Thrush and repeat vaginal yeast infections
  Not yet tested in people — lab studies only; no human trials on file. In lab tests, propolis broke down the outer wall of Candida yeast cells, and growth slowed. Lab work also paired it with standard antifungal drugs, and the pair did more. Human trials for thrush or vaginal yeast are not on file.
  Evidence grade insufficient
• Daily immune support and low-grade swelling
  Not yet tested in people — lab work and long use by custom; no human trial on file. Some people take propolis each day to keep their defences steady. Lab work points to a calming effect on swelling. No human trial in our file backs this daily use.
  Evidence grade insufficient

What Propolis has not been shown to do

• It has not been shown to take the place of diabetes drugs; the trials found only small drops in blood sugar.
• It has not been shown to clear H. pylori on its own; it was studied next to standard drugs.
• It has not been shown to stand in for antifungal drugs, since the pairing work was done in the lab.
• It has not been shown to rid the body of the herpes virus; studies looked at healing time and severity only.
• It has not been shown to stop every cold; studies found fewer colds, not none.
• Relief for sore throat and tonsillitis rests on user reports, not on human trials in our file.
• No human trial in our file shows it lowers long-term illness risk from ongoing low-grade swelling.

How to read this:

These grades are about proof, not power. A means matched human trials agree. B means at least one good human trial. C means small, mixed or early human work. D means weak or clashing human results. Insufficient means lab, animal or custom only. This page sets out options, not advice, and it is not a plan of care. Talk with your doctor before you start anything new.

What can Propolis help prevent?

• Recurrent upper respiratory tract infections (children and adults)
• Dental cavities and enamel erosion when used as an adjunct to oral hygiene
• Recurrent otitis media (middle ear infections) in children

Which foods are rich in it?

Propolis is not found in foods and is typically consumed as a supplement or applied topically.

What are possible side effects?

Propolis is generally safe for most people when used appropriately, but possible side effects include:

• Common (10-30%): Mild digestive issues (e.g., stomach upset)
• Less Common (1-10%): Allergic reactions (e.g., rash, itching, especially in individuals allergic to bee products)
• Rare (<1%): Oral irritation or mouth ulcers when used in lozenges or sprays

What’s the recommended daily dose?

The recommended daily dose of propolis varies depending on its form and individual health needs, but common dosages are:

• Tinctures or liquid extracts: 10-30 drops, taken 1-3 times daily.
• Capsules or tablets: 500 mg to 1 gram per day, divided into doses.
• Topical applications: Apply as needed to the affected area.

How many days does it take to work?

Some benefits, such as improved oral health and wound healing, can be noticeable within a few days to weeks. Long-term benefits, such as enhanced immune function and reduced frequency of infections, may take several weeks to months of consistent use.

What time of day is best to take it?

Propolis can be taken at any time of day. For optimal absorption and effectiveness, it is often recommended to take it with meals.

Is it best to take it with or without food?

Propolis can be taken with or without food. Taking it with meals can help improve absorption and reduce the risk of gastrointestinal discomfort.