Propolis

Overview

Propolis is a resin-like material made by bees from the buds of poplar and cone-bearing trees. Propolis is rarely available in its pure form. It is usually obtained from beehives and contains bee products. Bees use propolis to build their hives.

Propolis is used for diabetes, cold sores, and swelling (inflammation) and sores inside the mouth (oral mucositis). It is also used for burns, canker sores, genital herpes, and other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Classification

Is a Form of:

Resin-like material

Primary Functions:

Diabetes, cold sores, swelling

Also Known As:

Acide de Cire d'Abeille, Baume de Propolis, Bee Glue, Bee Propolis, Beeswax

How Does It Work?

Propolis seems to have activity against bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It might also have anti-inflammatory effects and help skin heal.

Uses

  • Diabetes. Research shows that taking propolis may improve blood sugar control by a small amount in people with diabetes. But it doesn't seem to affect insulin levels or improve insulin resistance.
  • Cold sores (herpes labialis). Most research shows that applying an ointment or cream containing 0.5% to 3% propolis five times daily helps cold sores to heal faster and reduces pain.
  • Swelling (inflammation) and sores inside the mouth (oral mucositis). Most research shows that rinsing the mouth with a propolis mouth rinse helps heal sores caused by cancer drugs or dentures.

Recommended Dosing

The following doses have been studied in scientific research:

BY MOUTH:

  • For diabetes: 500 mg of propolis three times per day for 8 weeks. 900 mg of propolis daily for 12 weeks. 400 mg of propolis daily for 6 months.
  • For swelling (inflammation) and sores inside the mouth (oral mucositis): 80 mg of propolis (Natur Farma S.A.S.) 2-3 times daily has been used along with rinsing with bicarbonate solution.

APPLIED TO THE SKIN:

  • For cold sores (herpes labialis): Creams or ointments containing propolis 0.5% or 3% applied to the lips 5 times per day at the start of cold sore symptoms.

AS A RINSE:

  • For swelling (inflammation) and sores inside the mouth (oral mucositis): 5 mL of propolis 30% mouth rinse (Soren Tektoos) for 60 seconds three times daily for 7 days has been used. 10 mL of a mouth wash has been used as a gargle 3 times daily in addition to chlorhexidine mouthwash and fluconazole for 14 days. Propolis 2% to 3% (extract EPP-AF) has been applied to dentures 3-4 times daily for 7-14 daily.

Propolis Supplements Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of taking propolis?

Propolis and its extracts have numerous applications in treating various diseases due to its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, antimycotic, antifungal, antiulcer, anticancer, and immunomodulatory properties.

Can propolis kill virus?

It can be considered to be a potent chemical weapon against bacteria, viruses, and other pathogenic microorganisms that may invade the bee colony. Also, bees use propolis as an embalming substance, to mummify invaders such as other insects, that have been killed and are too heavy to remove from the colony.

How do you take propolis?

Propolis comes in easy to swallow capsule or liquid form. Take internally for general wellbeing, or dilute Propolis liquid into water as a gargle or mouthwash for throat and mouth health. You can also apply Propolis liquid directly to the skin to aid healing.

Can I take propolis everyday?

How should I take Bee Propolis, can I take Propolis everyday? At Comvita, we have a variety of Bee Propolis products with different PFL® levels such as drops, oral sprays, and capsules. It should be taken once a day to support a healthy immune system.

Does propolis boost immune system?

Conclusion. Propolis is a complementary and alternative agent that promises to achieve a more effective immune system when the immune response is not sufficient to control a specific infection or pathological condition and a pathologically decreased/compromised condition.

Is propolis an antiviral?

The pharmacological properties of propolis are related to its chemical composition, which is highly complex and varies from region to region. Phenolics are well known propolis compounds with numerous pharmacological properties, such as antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal effects.

Does propolis have side effects?

Side Effects & Safety

Lozenges containing propolis can cause irritation and mouth ulcers. When applied to the skin: Propolis is POSSIBLY SAFE when applied to the skin appropriately. It can cause allergic reactions, especially in people who are allergic to bees or bee products.

Does propolis kill good bacteria?

Propolis has been shown to kill H. pylori, which is implicated in gastric ulcers and colitis; also MRSA, as in the potentially fatal bug. It acts on these pathogens without destroying your probiotic flora. I'd still take probiotics, but it's good to know propolis doesn't harm your gut like conventional antibiotics.

Can I put propolis on my face?

Propolis is commonly used for its healing, antiseptic and restorative capabilities. Propolis will assist in balancing, healing and soothing problematic skin. It also accelerates the rate of cell growth and decongests pores. Propolis protects against bacteria and functions as a great anti-inflammatory agent.

Does propolis really work?

Propolis has a special compound called pinocembrin, a flavonoid that acts as an antifungal. These anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make propolis helpful in wound healing. One study found that propolis can help people who have had traumatic burns heal faster by speeding up new healthy cell growth.

Is propolis good for stomach?

The main defense against this bacterium is to prevent it from adhering to the gastric mucosa by urease inhibition; urease inhibitors are particularly important in the treatment of gastric ulcers11. Propolis is a good pharmaceutical agent that has antibiotic, antitumor, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory proper- ties.

Is propolis good for hair growth?

Japanese scientists confident bee propolis can help hair re-growth. Propolis, a resin-like substance used by honeybees to seal small crevices in their hives, has been found to encourage hair growth in mice. "P​ropolis could promote the growth of cells that contribute to hair growth,​" says lead author Ken Kobayaski.

How many drops of propolis should I take?

Directions. Internal use: Can be used to drink or gargle, 4-5 drops in half a glass of warm liquid once or twice a day, External use: Apply to the skin where necessary using a cotton bud or piece of linen moistened with liquid. May stain. Do not exceed stated dose if you are pregnant.

What is the difference between propolis and honey?

Honey is a sweet liquid processed by the honey bee. Additionally, honey is well known for its biological, physiological, and pharmacological activities. Propolis is generally known as the “bee glue”, which is a generic name that refers to the resinous substance accumulated by the bees from different types of plants.

Is propolis good for sinus?

Propolis, known for its antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties, is proven to work best in the mucous linings of the body. Propolit Propolis Nasal Spray comes to the rescue in clearing the nasal passageway of sinusitis and other nasal conditions. Stop sinusitis and attack the germs before they multiply.

Is propolis good for kidney?

Cumulative evidence suggests that propolis may have anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, antioxidant, antihepatotoxic, and antitumor properties. This case indicates that propolis can induce acute renal failure and emphasizes the need for vigilance and care when propolis is used as a medicine or dietary supplement.

Is propolis good for sore throat?

Natural Factors Bee Propolis Throat Spray offers targeted support to relieve a sore throat and/or other mouth and throat infections. Created by bees to protect hives against microbes and bacteria, propolis is a unique substance that enhances immune function and offers antioxidant activity.

What foods contain propolis?

  • Lip balm/lipstick.
  •  Lip liner.
  • Cough Syrups.
  • Honey.
  • Lip protectant.
  • Cold sore treatment.

What is propolis good for health wise?

Propolis has a special compound called pinocembrin, a flavonoid that acts as an antifungal. These anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make propolis helpful in wound healing. One study found that propolis can help people who have had traumatic burns heal faster by speeding up new healthy cell growth.

How do you know if you are allergic to propolis?

What are the clinical features of propolis allergy?

  • hand dermatitis – common presentation. eczematous. ...
  • eczematous rash around the mouth (perioral eczema)
  • cheilitis – redness, scaling and crusting of the lips.
  • stomatitis – including mouth ulcers.
  • fiddler's neck.
  • facial redness, itch and swelling if due to airborne contact.

Is propolis an antibiotic?

Propolis is a significant antimicrobial bee product. It acts both against Gram-positive and Gram-negative, as well as aerobic and anaerobic bacteria. The activity of propolis depends on chemical composition and is different in individual countries.

Is propolis good for flu?

Propolis is used for canker sores and infections caused by bacteria (including tuberculosis), by viruses (including flu, H1N1 "swine" flu, and the common cold), by fungus, and by single-celled organisms called protozoans. Propolis is also used as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent.

Is propolis good for tonsillitis?

Natural Factors Bee Propolis Throat Spray offers targeted support to relieve a sore throat and/or other mouth and throat infections. Created by bees to protect hives against microbes and bacteria, propolis is a unique substance that enhances immune function and offers antioxidant activity.

Clinical Studies