Propolis

Common names: Propolis also is known as Propolis balsam, propolis resin, propolis wax, bee glue, hive dross.

Efficacy-safety rating:

●●...Ethno or other evidence of efficacy.

Safety rating:

What is Propolis?

Propolis is a natural resinous product collected from the buds of conifers and used by honeybees to fill cracks in their hives. It is a sticky mass that is greenish brown in color with a slight aromatic odor. The composition of propolis is not fully known and appears to vary with its vegetation source.

What is Propolis used for?

Propolis displays strong antimicrobial activity and has been used as a chemotherapeutic agent since ancient times. It was used in folk medicine as early as 300 BC for medical and cosmetic purposes, and as an anti-inflammatory drug and wound-healing agent. More recently, it has been reported to possess antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Propolis has shown local anesthetic, anti-ulcer, anti-inflammatory, immunostimulant, and hypotensive properties. It also shows tumor-inhibiting properties in laboratory tests. Proponents of the use of propolis suggest that it stimulates the immune system, thereby raising the body's natural resistance to infection. It has been advocated for both internal and external use.

In laboratory tests, studies have shown broad spectrum antimicrobial activity of various propolis extracts, although activity was highest in gram-positive bacteria and yeasts. Synergism with certain antibiotics has been demonstrated.

In human clinical studies, propolis has been investigated for its activity against Helicobacter pylori, chronic vaginitis, genital herpes, and periodontal and respiratory tract infections. A clear therapeutic role for propolis is difficult to validate because of variations in antimicrobial action, which are dependent on geographical origin and extraction methods employed.

Animal studies show propolis to have anti-inflammatory effects. A clinical study of the effect of propolis in patients with asthma demonstrated a reduction in the frequency of asthma attacks, and an increase in breathing function.

Propolis extracts have been investigated for their antioxidant properties. Study results have been inconsistent. The antioxidant activity of propolis is one of the rationales for its proposed antitumor and liver protective activity. Clinical studies on the antitumor and liver-protective activities of propolis are lacking. Animal studies show some immunostimulatory and modulatory effects.

Propolis is used as a mouthwash, toothpaste, and throat lozenge because of its purported antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities.

In a small clinical study, propolis mixed with mulberry leaf decreased blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes.

What is the dosage of Propolis?

There is no clinical evidence to support specific dosage recommendations for propolis.

Is Propolis safe?

Contraindications have not yet been identified.

Information regarding safety and efficacy in pregnancy and lactation is lacking.

None well documented.

Allergic reactions with skin and mucous membrane irritations have been reported. Sensitization to propolis also has been reported.

Information regarding toxicology is lacking.

References

Copyright © 2006 Wolters Kluwer Health

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