What Is Propolis?

Propolis is a substance produced by honeybees to use in building their hives. It is a mixture of beeswax, various other bee secretions, and resins collected by the bees from plants such as leaf buds and flowers. Propolis is used by humans for various medical purposes, some of which are supported with scientific research and some of which are based on tradition.

Identification

Propolis is a sticky substance whose composition varies according to the type of plants available to the bees. Its color and odor also vary, depending on the source of resins and the season of the year. The color of propolis is often dark brown, but it can be yellow, red or green. There have even been some rare instances of transparent propolis.

History

According to MedlinePlus, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health, propolis has long been used for medicinal purposes. It is best known for its antibacterial properties. The Greeks used it to treat abscesses, the Assyrians used it to heal wounds and tumors and the Egyptians used it as a mummifying agent. Today, propolis can be found in cosmetics, skin creams, chewing gum and lozenges. It is often used in commercial foods and beverages that are marketed with claims of improving health.

Benefits

Much scientific study has been done on the use of propolis to treat various medical problems. Most studies have not produced convincing evidence, although some show promising results. Used as a cream or ointment, propolis may help heal inflammation of the cervix, the open lesions of genital herpes and minor burns. Propolis nasal sprays are sometimes used to treat congestion, runny nose and fever associated with nose or throat infections in children. Propolis has several dental health applications. Used as a mouthwash, it may reduce bacteria in the mouth, reduce the formation of plaque and relieve dental pain and periodontitis (gum inflammation). Propolis may also be beneficial as a sealing agent after root canal surgery and in healing dental wounds.

Considerations

Propolis is used for many other health conditions, although there is no scientific research involving these applications. Among these conditions, according to Intelihealth.com, which publishes medical information compiled by Natural Standard and the Faculty of Harvard Medical School, are acne, blood clots, bowel diseases, eczema, eye infections and low blood pressure. Others are osteoporosis, prostate cancer, psoriasis, respiratory infections, thyroid disease, tuberculosis, leukemia, HIV and wound healing. Propolis is also used as an antibacterial and antifungal agent, an immune stimulant and to treat viral infections.

Warning

Use of propolis has been linked to allergic reactions, especially when used on the skin. People who are allergic to poplar bud, black poplar, bee stings and bee products may be at greater risk of having an allergic reaction to propolis. Allergic reactions may produce swelling, redness, fever or eczema. Skin irritations that may result include burning, lesions, peeling lips, swelling, itching, eczema or psoriasis. Propolis may irritate mucus membranes when used in the mouth. Propolis should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding because conclusive information is lacking in this area.