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Propolis (Bee Propolis)
CAPE-rich bee resin with broad antimicrobial and antiviral activity — supports respiratory infections, wound healing, and oral health.
What the evidence says
Propolis appears to help in 8 of 8 studies with measurable effects — the evidence leans clearly favourable.
Most evidence is from high-quality meta-analyses and randomised trials published 1970–2026 with a typical study size of 199 participants.
Based on 35 studies · 17 meta-analyses · 5 RCTs · 11,851 total participants
Confidence
HighWhat the studies found
By outcome
Propolis has an evidence score of 8/10 — strong evidence based on 35 indexed studies, including 19 meta-analyses. CAPE-rich bee resin with broad antimicrobial and antiviral activity — supports respiratory infections, wound healing, and oral health.
The commonly studied dose of Propolis is 300-1000mg daily (standardized extract). Research points to an estimated optimal dose around 750mg, with a minimum effective dose near 300mg. Individual response varies — start low and adjust.
Timing is flexible for Propolis — consistent daily use matters more than the time of day. Propolis is a resinous substance produced by honeybees containing flavonoids (pinocembrin, galangin, chrysin), phenolic acids (caffeic acid phenethyl ester/CAPE), and terpenoids.
Luteolin
Likely helpsCrosses the blood-brain barrier to reduce neuroinflammation and inhibits mast cell activation — useful for allergies and brain health.
Beta-Glucans
Likely helpsPolysaccharides from yeast, mushrooms, or oats that train innate immune cells to respond faster to infections and pathogens.
Last reviewed May 2026 · evidence from 40 studies · how we score
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or medication.
Propolis is a resinous substance bees create from tree buds and sap, used to seal and protect their hives. It's rich in flavonoids (especially CAPE - caffeic acid phenethyl ester), polyphenols, and aromatic compounds. It has been used for thousands of years for its antimicrobial, antiviral, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. Modern research supports its use for upper respiratory infections, wound healing, oral health, and immune support.
Kills bacteria, viruses, and fungi
Unique bioactive compound
Enhances immune cell activity
How Propolis works — from molecular targets to health outcomes. Click an edge to see supporting research.This visualization is in beta — pathways are being refined and expanded.
300-1000mg daily (standardized extract)
Loading: For acute infections: higher doses for 1-2 weeks
Take with food
| Form | Type |
|---|---|
| 💊Standardized extract (capsules or tincture) | Recommended |
| 💨Throat spray | Alternative |
| 💊Raw propolis | Alternative |
| 💊Propolis lozenges | Alternative |
Standardized extracts ensure consistent potency. Green Brazilian propolis is particularly researched. Tinctures may contain alcohol.
Minimum: 2 weeks
Optimal: 8 weeks
Cycling: Not required
Note: Available as capsules, tincture, spray, or raw. Tincture or spray is convenient for sore throat.
Based on meta-analyses showing significant reductions in IL-6, TNF-α, and CRP. Effect sizes were modest with WMD of -2.48 for IL-6 and -0.86 for TNF-α. Conservative effectiveness reflects variable study quality and heterogeneity between trials.
Reduced duration and severity of infections
Reduced oral bacteria and improved gum health
Faster healing of wounds and burns (topical)
Can cause allergic reactions
AVOID - risk of allergic reaction
May have mild anticoagulant effects — may affect platelet aggregation or vitamin K-dependent clotting factors, altering anticoagulant efficacy
May counteract immunosuppressive effects
Tip: Test small amount first; avoid if bee allergy
Tip: Dilute tincture; use lozenges or capsules instead
Both support immune function
Enhanced immune defense
Both support immune function
Comprehensive immune support
Both bee products support immunity
Comprehensive bee product immune support
Both bee products with different benefits
Comprehensive bee product support
Propolis is generally safe at recommended doses, with a few precautions worth noting. The most commonly reported side effects are allergic reaction, mouth irritation (topical). Use caution if any of these apply to you: Bee product allergy; Asthma (increased allergy risk).
Quercetin
Likely helpsFlavonoid with senolytic and anti-inflammatory properties — supports immune defense, allergy relief, and exercise performance.
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