Propolis is a natural flavonoid-rich resin produced by bees with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Use for: Propolis is used for diabetes, bacterial, fungal infections, intestinal parasitic infections, upper respiratory tract infections (URTI), urinary tract infection (UTI) and gastrointestinal disturbances and helicobacter pylori infection in peptic ulcer disease. Using propolis with Cranberry may potentiate effects on UTI.
It is also topically used for cold sores, genital herpes, burns, tinea pedis and diabetic foot ulcers.
As a mouth rinse, it is used for gingivitis, periodontitis, oropharyngeal candidiasis and wound healing after oral surgery.
Safety: Propolis is mostly safe in appropriate doses. Avoid using in pregnancy.
Possibly safe in lactating mothers when used appropriately.
Concerns: Propolis is mostly well tolerated in appropriate doses. For the patients who have allergies on bees or bee products may cause allergic reactions. Topical propolis may cause eczematous contact dermatitis or other dermatological reactions.
Propolis may increase the effect of anticoagulants or herbs that have anticoagulating effects such as angelica, clove, garlic, ginger, panax ginseng, etc., which may increase the risk for bleeding. Please consult with health care providers when on concomitant use of propolis with anticoagulants or these herbs.
Available products: Bee Propolis 500 mg oral capsule, Bee propolis tincture 65%, Bee propolis throat spray.