Propolis: What Is It, What Does It Do, What Are Its Benefits, and How Is It Used?

Propolis is formed when the secretion of bees mixes with substances obtained from plants and trees, as well as beeswax.

Propolis, also known as bee glue, is a resinous material that bees normally use to seal the walls of their hive, reinforce the edges of the honeycomb, and strengthen the entrance to the hive.

What Is Propolis?

The word "propolis" originates from Greek. "Pro" means "for defense," while "polis" means "city." Propolis is produced by bees to ensure the safety of their hive and colonies. Typically dark brown in color, propolis can sometimes be green, red, black, or white. The change in color is due to the different sources of resin found in specific areas of the hive. Propolis has a unique and pleasant aromatic smell. Unlike bee pollen, propolis has a much richer composition, and numerous studies have been conducted over the years. These studies have revealed many health benefits related to propolis.

Properties of Propolis

Propolis has antiseptic (prevents infection), antibacterial (prevents bacteria formation), antiviral (prevents virus formation), antifungal (prevents fungus formation), and bacteriostatic (stops bacteria development) properties. This helps bees protect their colonies from diseases.

Nutritional Value of Propolis

Raw propolis generally contains 50% tree and plant resin, 30% beeswax, 10% volatile and aromatic oils, 5% pollen, and 5% other organic components. Propolis also contains 12 different flavonoids with antioxidant properties and 2 types of phenolic acids. Bioflavonoids, also known as P vitamins, contribute to strengthening the immune system and have many health benefits. In addition to propolis, bioflavonoids can be found in many fruits and vegetables, especially in oranges. However, the amount of bioflavonoids in propolis is about 500 times higher than in oranges.

Propolis also contains B1, B2, B6, C, and E vitamins, as well as minerals like zinc, iron, copper, manganese, sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Raw propolis contains beeswax, which makes it harder to digest, so it needs to be processed to separate the resin-like nourishing parts. During the processing of propolis, plant and larvae residues are also removed, making it easier to digest.

What Does Propolis Do?

Studies have found that propolis is effective for simple injuries, oral health, inflammation, and cold sores. People with diabetes generally experience slow wound healing, but propolis stimulates new cell formation and accelerates the healing process by promoting the growth of new skin. During wound healing, propolis also kills bacteria, preventing infections.

Studies have shown that propolis prevents the formation of calcium phosphate, which causes dental plaque. Propolis and honey, both with antibacterial properties, are effective ingredients in dental care products. In individuals with periodontitis (gum disease), using propolis significantly reduces the amount of bacteria in saliva.

The antioxidants in propolis reduce inflammation caused by conditions like arthritis. Studies have shown that propolis reduces swelling caused by arthritis-related inflammation and impacts the formation of inflammation. Propolis is also effective for cold sores, which are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). HSV-1 typically causes cold sores in the mouth, while HSV-2 causes painful, fluid-filled blisters in the genital area. Studies have found that propolis is effective in healing skin lesions caused by HSV.

Benefits of Propolis

Studies on propolis collected from many trees and plants, such as poplar, oak, beech, acacia, eucalyptus, and conifer trees, have shown numerous benefits. Propolis’s antimicrobial, antiviral, and antibacterial effects help prevent the formation of disease-causing microorganisms. Additionally, due to its antioxidant content, propolis supports the immune system and contributes to the body’s resistance against disease-causing agents. Propolis has proven effects in treating colds, tonsillitis, laryngitis, pharyngitis, and other upper respiratory tract infections. It also has a protective effect against gum diseases. Propolis varieties in gargle form can be used to prevent problems in the mouth and throat mucosa.

Among other bee products like pollen, propolis has the highest antioxidant effect. It contributes to healing by being applied topically for the treatment of acne and cold sores. Research has shown that propolis also aids in the healing of ulcers, burns, and inflammatory diseases. Although some studies suggest propolis has anticancer effects, its protective properties against cancer are still under investigation.

How to Use Propolis?

Raw propolis has an irritating effect, so it must be diluted and processed before use. Processed propolis can be made into capsules or tablets for use. It is also available in powder, concentrated liquid, syrup, and gum forms. Due to its antimicrobial properties, propolis is used in the form of gargles and lozenges for throat infections and upper respiratory diseases. Propolis, which is also effective in wound healing, can be applied topically as an ointment. It is also used in toothpaste for the prevention of tooth decay.

For cold sore treatment, propolis is included in creams or ointments in concentrations of 0.5% or 3%. It should be applied to the lips 5 times a day, starting from the day the symptoms appear. Propolis in gargle form is recommended to be used 3 times a day for 7 days.

What to Consider Before Using Propolis?

Orally consumed propolis, such as tablets, capsules, or syrups, is safe when used correctly. However, it may cause allergic reactions, especially in people who are allergic to bees and bee products, so caution is necessary. Propolis-containing lozenges may cause irritation and mouth ulcers, so they should be used carefully. Topical products containing propolis, such as ointments or drops, can be used safely on the skin. However, people who are allergic to bees, honey, or pollen should be cautious when using propolis on their skin as it may cause allergic reactions.

There is not enough information about the safe use of propolis during pregnancy, so it is advised to consult a doctor before use. Oral propolis, such as tablets or capsules, can be safely used by breastfeeding individuals. Studies have shown that propolis at a daily dose of 300 mg can be safely used for up to 10 months. Therefore, breastfeeding mothers should avoid using higher doses.

Some experts and researchers suggest that propolis use may be dangerous for people with asthma. Certain substances in propolis are said to exacerbate and trigger asthma symptoms. Therefore, propolis is not recommended for individuals with asthma. Asthma patients should undergo allergy testing before using propolis and should follow the results when deciding whether to use it.

People with bleeding disorders may face an increased risk of bleeding when using propolis. Some chemicals in propolis may slow down blood clotting. Therefore, propolis should be used cautiously in individuals with bleeding disorders. Also, for patients scheduled for surgery, propolis may increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgery, so it should be discontinued at least 2 weeks before the procedure.

Patients allergic to honey, conifer trees, poplar trees, Peru balsam, or salicylates (aspirin) should avoid using propolis. As a general rule, propolis and other bee products should not be used in children under the age of 2.