Propolis Tincture
Also known as: Bee glue, Propolis tincture, Propolis extract, Propolis resin, Propolis
Overview
Propolis is a resinous substance collected by honey bees from botanical sources, primarily conifers and broad-leaved plants. It serves a crucial role as a sealant and protective barrier within the hive. Composed of flavonoids, phenolic acids, and terpenes, propolis is renowned for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. As a popular dietary supplement, it is utilized in traditional medicine for various health applications such as supporting cardiovascular health, enhancing oral hygiene, and reducing inflammation. Research has consistently indicated its health benefits, with many systematic reviews and meta-analyses documenting its efficacy and safety, although further standardized studies are warranted due to the heterogeneous nature of existing research.
Benefits
Propolis is linked to numerous evidence-based health benefits, notably in cardiometabolic health and the management of inflammatory conditions. A systematic review showed significant decreases in triglyceride levels (WMD: –10.44 mg/dl) and inflammatory markers like IL-6 and TNF-α. Propolis is beneficial for adults with cardiovascular risk factors and patients dealing with chronic conditions such as periodontitis and recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS), showing enhanced clinical and microbiological outcomes over treatment durations of 4 to 48 weeks. Its use as a long-term health management tool is supported by these findings.
How it works
Propolis exhibits its beneficial effects through potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial actions. It reduces levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-6 and TNF-α, thereby alleviating inflammation. Additionally, it positively influences cardiovascular health by improving lipid profiles and lowering blood pressure. The active constituents, particularly flavonoids and phenolic acids, participate in various biological pathways associated with inflammation and oxidative stress, thereby boosting the immune response and optimizing metabolic functions.
Side effects
Propolis is considered safe for most individuals, although allergic reactions can occur, especially in those sensitive to bee products, manifesting as skin rashes or itching in over 5% of users. Gastrointestinal issues, such as nausea or stomach discomfort, are less common, affecting 1-5% of users. Severe reactions like anaphylaxis are rare, occurring in less than 1% of cases. Due to limited studies on drug interactions, caution is warranted when using propolis concurrently with anticoagulants or immunosuppressive medications. Additionally, those with known bee product allergies, severe respiratory conditions, and pregnant or lactating women should consult healthcare professionals before use.
Dosage
The recommended dosage for propolis varies by health objective, with a baseline effective dose suggested at 500 mg daily for cardiometabolic benefits. Typical dosages range from 500 mg to 1,000 mg per day, applicable to both cardiovascular and oral health benefits. Propolis may be taken orally in capsule or tincture form or applied topically in gels or mouthwashes. Although a maximum safe dosage is not definitively established, exceeding 1,000 mg daily is uncommon in literature. Dosing can be either once or twice daily, and bioavailability may be affected by both the supplemental form and individual metabolic variations.
FAQs
Can I use propolis if I have allergies?
Individuals with allergies to bee products should avoid propolis due to potential allergic reactions.
Is propolis safe during pregnancy?
Consult your healthcare provider before using propolis during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to limited safety research.
Does propolis interact with medications?
Use caution with propolis if you take medications affecting blood clotting or immune function.
How often should I take propolis?
Propolis is typically taken once or twice daily, depending on the form and desired health benefits.
What results can I expect from using propolis?
Users may observe improvements in cardiometabolic health, reduced inflammation, and better oral health with consistent use.
Research Sources
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7035658/ – This systematic review evaluates the health benefits of propolis, specifically noting its effects on lipid levels and inflammatory markers. The review highlights significant findings on cardiovascular and oral health, emphasizing improvements over varying treatment durations.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26193216/ – A meta-analysis documenting the anti-inflammatory effects of propolis, supporting its use in managing chronic inflammatory conditions. The study provides statistical evidence of propolis's capacity to lower key inflammatory mediators.