Propolis

Propolis is used for infections and gastrointestinal conditions. Do not use propolis if you have had an allergic reaction to bees or bee products.

Propolis Overview

Reviewed: July 25, 2014
Updated: 

Propolis is a resin-like substance that bees collect from plants and use in the construction of bee hives. Propolis is also known as bee glue.

Propolis is used most often for infections, gastrointestinal conditions, and as an antioxidant.

Propolis is thought to work in several different ways, but more evidence is needed to determine how propolis produces its effects.

When used topically or as a lozenge, propolis can cause skin irritation or allergic reaction.

Propolis Cautionary Labels

precautions

Propolis is used most often for infections, cold sores, the common cold, gastrointestinal conditions, and high blood pressure. Propolis is also used as an anti-cancer agent, anti-inflammatory agent, and antioxidant.

Propolis has not been proven effective for all of the uses listed above. Propolis may be used for other conditions. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

 

Side Effects of Propolis

When taken orally, there are no reports of significant side effects with propolis in non-allergic individuals.

When used topically or as a lozenge, propolis can cause skin irritation or allergic reaction. 

This is not a complete list of propolis side effects. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Tell your doctor if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

Propolis Interactions

No drug interactions have been determined by the manufacturer. However, you should tell your doctor about all the medicines you take including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Not all interactions are known or reported and new drug interactions are continually being reported.

Propolis Precautions

Special precautions & warnings:

  • Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using propolis if you are pregnant, breast-feeding, or trying to become pregnant.
  • Propolis intake can cause asthma and other allergic reaction symptoms (eczema, runny nose, or hives) in individuals allergic to bees or bee products.
  • There has been a case report of acute renal failure induced by propolis. Talk to your doctor before taking propolis if you have a history of kidney problems.