PROPOLIS

---

Propolis is thought to have antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. As research suggests, propolis has many benefits. 

Propolis is a resin-like material made by bees from the buds of poplar and cone-bearing trees. It is also derived from the sap of needle-leaved or evergreen trees.  

Centuries ago, propolis was used by ancient civilizations for its medicinal properties. For instance, Greeks used it to treat abscesses. Assyrians put it on wounds and tumors to fight infection and help the healing process. Egyptians also used the extensive treatment properties of propolis in their medical practices. 

Researchers have identified more than 500 trusted Source compounds in propolis. The majority of these compounds are forms of polyphenols which are antioxidants specializing in preventing the spreading of disease or damage in the body.

Propolis specifically contains a polyphenol, flavonoid, which is produced in plants as a form of protection. 

Propolis also contains other potential healing components, such as resin, pollen, and wax. Other natural components include minerals such as magnesium and potassium, amino acids, vitamins A, C, and E. 

Wounds

Pinocembrin, an antibacterial flavonoid, is found in propolis as an anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agent. These properties allow propolis to help treat wounds.

Possible stimulation of collagen production can also drive propolis to be a significant help regarding wounds. 

Cold sores and genital herpes

Ointments that contain a few percentage of propolis, may help speed healing time and reduce symptoms in sores such as  cold sores and sores from genital herpes.

One study found propolis to be effective in treating sores faster than no treatment. The researchers found the propolis cream  reduced the amount of herpes virus present in a person’s body and protected the body against future cold sores.

Oral Health

Another review found that propolis may also help treat cavities, throat infections, and mouth infections due to its anti- inflammatory and antibacterial effects.

Cancer

Propolis has been suggested to have a role in treating certain cancers as well. According to one 2021 studyTrusted Source, propolis may:

• keep cancerous cells from multiplying
• reduce the likelihood cells will become cancerous
• block pathways that keep cancer cells from signaling to each other
• reduce side effects of certain cancer treatments, such chemotherapy and radiation therapy

Researchers also suggested that propolis could be a complementary therapy — but not a sole treatment — for cancer.

Chronic diseases

Research suggests that some of the anti-oxidative effects of propolis may have potential cardiovascular, neurological, and anti-diabetic benefits.

According to a review in 2019, polyphenol-rich foods and supplements like propolis may reduce the risk of high cholesterol, stroke, and heart disease.

The same review also noted that propolis may possibly contain neuroprotective effects against multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s disease, and dementia. However, as with other benefits of propolis, more research is needed to confirm the help that may be provided by such supplements in  preventing neurological disorders.

Additionally, a 2022 review suggests that propolis may also have implications in the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes due to its flavonoids, which could potentially help control insulin release. 

However, it’s unclear whether propolis alone could offer any of the above benefits.

Suggested use and dosage for adults: 20-30 drops (1 ml., one full squeeze of dropper), up to 3 times a day. Shake well before use.

If you have an allergy to honey, pollen, bees, or any other bee byproduct you’ll also likely have a reaction to products containing propolis. Propolis may also cause its own allergic reaction when used for a long time.