Overview

Propolis is a complex substance made by honeybees to build their hives. People use propolis for various reasons, but its effects are not well defined. It seems to be well tolerated by most people, although there is not enough research to know what the common side effects may be. Some people have skin reactions or serious allergic reactions to propolis. Before using propolis, make sure to tell your health care provider about any health conditions you have or medicines you are taking.

Uses

What is propolis used for?

Propolis is used for various reasons, but its benefits are not well defined. Some common reasons that people use propolis include the following.

• Diabetes
• Genital herpes
• Joint problems
• Mouth sores caused by chemotherapy
• Stomach ulcers

Note: The FDA has not reviewed propolis for safety and effectiveness. Learn more about dietary supplements here.

How does propolis work (mechanism of action)?

Propolis is a complex substance that honeybees use to build their hives. It is sometimes called bee glue or bee putty because it plays an important part in keeping the hive together. Propolis is usually a mixture of sap, bee pollen, and beeswax.

The chemicals and substances found in propolis depend on where the beehive is located and what local trees and flowers were used to build it. Propolis contains hundreds of different chemicals, some of which may have antibacterial, antiviral, or antioxidant activity. Some of these chemicals may also help reduce swelling (inflammation). But it is not clear how propolis may work for any use.

The amounts of each chemical in a specific propolis product may vary. Some, none, or all of these chemicals may have effects on the body. These effects may change depending how much of each chemical is found in the product you are using.

How should I store propolis?

You should store propolis according to the product label. Most dietary supplements should be kept in a cool, dry location that is out of the reach of children and pets and not in direct sunlight.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of propolis?

Propolis seems to be well tolerated. But there is not enough research to know what the common side effects may be. Tell your health care provider if you have any side effects that bother you.

There may be side effects of propolis that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a supplement. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.safetyreporting.hhs.gov or by calling 888-SAFEFOOD (888-723-3366). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of propolis?

While less common, the most serious side effects of propolis are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Propolis may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using propolis and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

• Breathing problems or wheezing
• Racing heart
• Fever or general ill feeling
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
• Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
• Itching or skin rash
• Bumps on the skin called hives that can be red, pink, white, or brown depending on your skin tone
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
• Stomach cramps
• Joint pain

Precautions

Who should not use propolis?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use propolis.

• Bee glue or bee putty
• Galangin
• Nivcrisol
• Propolin H
• Propolis
• Any of the ingredients in the specific product

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific propolis products they stock.

What should I know about propolis before using it?

Propolis is a dietary supplement. It cannot be marketed to treat or cure a disease.

Read and follow the directions on the specific product you are using, or use it as recommended by your health care provider.

Keep propolis out of the reach of children.

Propolis can cause allergic skin reactions (contact dermatitis) in some people. This reaction is more likely in people who have had allergic reactions (atopy), or who have allergic conditions like asthma or eczema. It may also be more likely in children. Before using propolis on a child, talk to your health care provider about this risk. Stop using any product that contains propolis and contact your health care provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms of contact dermatitis.

• Rash
• Itching or burning
• Blistering
• Redness, scaling, or crusting on your lips
• Peeling in your mouth, nose, throat, or genitals

Propolis is available in many different forms, including as a liquid, capsule, or tablet. It is also available as an ointment, cream, salve, or balm that can be applied to the skin or lips. Each of these forms may contain different amounts of the chemicals that are naturally found in propolis.

Propolis naturally contains hundreds of chemicals. Propolis products come from many different beehives, where the honeybees use various trees and flowers to build their hives. Each source of propolis may contain different types and amounts of chemicals. If you switch to a new product or a different brand, you may not have the same effects or side effects because of this variability. Talk to your health care provider if you have questions or concerns.

The FDA has not tested propolis products to confirm that they contain the ingredients stated on their labels. Some dietary supplements have been tested by third-party organizations to confirm that they contain the ingredients listed on their labels and do not contain any harmful chemicals. Learn more about how to choose a safe dietary supplement product here.

What should I tell my health care provider before using propolis?

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them know if propolis is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Allergic Conditions.People who have had allergic reactions (atopy), or who have allergic conditions like asthma or eczema, may be more likely to have an allergic reaction to propolis. This risk may also be higher in children. Talk to your health care provider if you have any of these conditions before using propolis.

Allergy to Peru Balsam.Propolis contains some of the same chemicals as another substance, called Peru balsam (or balsam of Peru). This substance, which comes from the Myroxylon balsamum pereirae tree, is used in many perfumes and skin care products. People who have an allergy to Peru balsam may be more likely to have an allergic reaction to propolis. If you have an allergy to Peru balsam, talk to your health care provider before using propolis.

Pregnancy. It is not known if or how propolis could affect pregnancy or harm an unborn baby. Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Breastfeeding. It is not known if propolis passes into breast milk. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.

Interactions

Does propolis interact with foods or drinks?

There are no known interactions between propolis and foods or drinks.

It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect propolis.

Does propolis interact with medicines (drug interactions)?

Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

The interactions between propolis and medicines are not fully understood. As with most dietary supplements, the research on drug interactions with propolis is incomplete. Always check with your health care provider before using propolis with any medicines.

Dosing

What should I do if I accidentally use too much propolis?

If you or someone else has used too much propolis, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

Propolis is a complex substance that contains many different chemicals. Read the product label closely and speak with a health care provider about how to use propolis safely. Do not use double or extra doses, even if you miss a dose.