Propolis is a resinous substance collected by honeybees, often called “bee glue,” which they use to seal and protect their hives. This natural material is created by combining tree sap and other botanical compounds with beeswax and bee secretions. Raw propolis is a complex mixture, typically composed of about 50% resins, 30% waxes, 10% essential oils, and 5% pollen, with the remaining portion consisting of various organic compounds. Due to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, propolis is widely incorporated into various consumer products intended for health and wellness.
Propolis in Dietary Supplements and Extracts
Products designed for internal consumption aim to deliver propolis’s beneficial compounds for systemic effects within the body. The most common forms are capsules and tablets, which offer a convenient way to ingest standardized, measurable doses of purified propolis extract. These solid supplements are often taken daily to support general wellness, including immune function and antioxidant intake.
Liquid extracts, frequently referred to as tinctures, provide another popular method for internal use. These extracts are typically prepared using alcohol or glycerin as a solvent, which effectively draws out the active components like flavonoids and phenolic acids from the raw propolis. Tincture concentrations, such as 10% or 20%, represent the ratio of propolis to the solvent. Users commonly mix a few drops with water or juice for consumption. Raw propolis itself is also available, usually in chunk or powder form, which some consumers may chew directly or blend into foods and drinks.
Oral and Mucosal Care Products
A large segment of propolis-containing items is dedicated to localized application within the mouth, throat, and upper respiratory passages. Throat sprays and lozenges are widely used for the direct application of propolis to the throat and pharynx, often marketed for use during cold or flu-like symptoms. These products deliver the propolis directly to the mucosal tissues, leveraging its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties for localized relief.
Propolis is frequently incorporated into mouthwash and dental products, offering an alternative to standard oral hygiene ingredients. Toothpastes and mouth rinses containing propolis extract are used to inhibit the growth of oral pathogens that contribute to dental plaque, gingivitis, and stomatitis. Research suggests that propolis can slow the formation of calcium phosphates, which are precursors to dental calculus, making it a promising ingredient for preventive care. Concentrated solutions of propolis are also available for use as gargles.
Topical Applications for Skin Health
Products applied to the skin utilize propolis for its healing, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory characteristics. Propolis is a common ingredient in creams and ointments, which are semi-solid preparations used for general moisturizing or targeted application to specific skin conditions. These formulations are sometimes used to help manage concerns like acne, due to propolis’s ability to inhibit bacteria and reduce inflammation.
Balms and salves, which generally have a thicker, more occlusive consistency than creams, often use propolis to create a protective barrier on the skin. These highly concentrated preparations are frequently applied to minor cuts, burns, or areas of irritation to promote tissue repair and prevent infection. Propolis is also a component in a variety of cosmetics, including specialized facial serums, soaps, and shampoos, where its antioxidant content may help protect the skin from free radicals and support a healthy complexion.