Propolis: The multiple benefits, properties and what to look out for

What is propolis?

As its name implies, the word propolis comes from the synthetics “pro” and “polis”, i.e. it is the shield of protection of the hive against external enemies.

Propolis is the building material of the hive, which is used to protect and disinfect it, as well as to seal the various cracks. At the same time it provides antimicrobial activity and does not allow the growth of germs inside the hive.

Bees produce propolis from plant resins secreted by some trees. Among the most common plants used in its production are poplar, birch, willow, oak, horse chestnut and various coniferous trees.

Composition and types of propolis

An important role in the chemical composition of propolis is played by the geographical location, the time of year, the genetics of the bees, as well as the species of the plant. The resulting products have, therefore, different properties and different colors (brown-yellow, green & red propolis). [2] [4]

Propolis is classified into different types based on its geographical and plant origin. New Zealand and Brazil green propolis are the two main species that have been extensively studied in recent years. [2]

 The polyphenol content is often used as a criterion for evaluating the quality of propolis. The main polyphenols contained are flavonoids, phenolic acids, phenolic acid esters and phenolic aldehydes & ketones. [2]

Despite the many differences in the chemical composition of propolis collected around the world, they all show antioxidant and antimicrobial activity. [4] [5] [6]

Properties of propolis

Propolis has been extensively studied in recent decades and its beneficial properties are associated with more and more pathological conditions. [3]

Numerous studies have confirmed its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial and healing properties, while the fields of use are constantly expanding. [3]

From ancient times, bee products have been used on many occasions due to their beneficial properties. References to the healing and antimicrobial action of propolis have been made since ancient Greece and Egypt. [3]

The traditional use of propolis by various populations around the world, offers substantial support in its therapeutic value. [2]

Today, propolis is available in a variety of forms, such as capsules, lozenges and propolis tincture, in mouthwashes & toothpastes, as an ingredient in cosmetics and various foods. [3]

The widespread use of propolis in everyday life is due to the various actions it has been associated with, the most basic of which are listed below: [1] [2] [3] [5] [7] [9]

• antibacterial-antifungal-antiviral
• antioxidant
• anti-inflammatory
• wound healing
• analgesic
• immunomodulatory
• neuroprotective
• hepatoprotective.

Immune System

According to recent research, it appears that propolis and / or its components (alone or in combination) are very likely to be involved in the function of the immune response and lead to immunomodulation. [5] [7]

Propolis is often used to prevent & treat pathological conditions, especially of the upper respiratory tract (e.g. pharyngitis, sore throat), as it is considered to stimulate the immune system and soothe symptoms. [5]

Furthermore, it is combined perfectly with vitamin C, pollen and royal jelly, ingredients with which it is found in combination in various nutritional supplements to strengthen the immune system, especially during the winter.

Antimicrobial Action

Propolis is particularly known for its antimicrobial action. It has been shown to work against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, as well as aerobic & anaerobic bacteria. [9]

All types of propolis, regardless of origin and, consequently, the compounds they contain, have a strong antimicrobial activity, indicating that all propolis compounds always have in common the strong action against bacteria, fungi and viruses. [5] [9]

Oral Health

Propolis is used in various forms to enhance oral health, mainly through its antimicrobial action. In recent years, its beneficial effect in cases of periodontal disease has been widely studied. [8]

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease affects a significant proportion of adults and, according to research, is likely to be the most common chronic infection in the adult population. [8]

According to a review published in 2021, it seems that periodontal disease is significantly associated with oxidative stress as well as with a number of pathological conditions. [8]

There is evidence that most forms of periodontal disease are due to the overgrowth of certain – mainly anaerobic – bacterial species (eg Porphyromonas gingivalis, Bacteroides forsythus, Treponema denticola) and it is believed that propolis is able to protect and contribute to addressing the problem. [8]

It is considered, therefore, that propolis is a safe choice that can act supportively in the treatment of periodontal disease or potentially be an alternative treatment option. [8]

Oral Hygiene

As mentioned above, the strong antimicrobial action of propolis has led to its widespread use – in various ways – in maintaining oral hygiene. [2] [8]

A typical example is the use of toothpaste with green propolis which seems to help treat gingivitis due to dental plaque.

In addition, propolis products in the form of mouth spray are used by many people to reduce inflammation in the mucous membranes and to prevent or faster remove aphthae.

Cold Sores

According to studies, propolis inhibits the proliferation of the virus that causes cold sores and helps to better manage it, if it has already been developed. It creates a protective layer on the lips and reduces pain & healing time.

Skin Health

Propolis has been used for centuries both as a skin disinfectant and directly on wounds, for its healing properties. [5]

It seems to stimulate the growth of skin tissue, while also contributing to the production of collagen. At the same time, the combination of its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, actively protects the skin and makes it suitable for use in protection against acne, premature aging and the harmful effects of sunlight. [5]

Although various propolis cosmetics are available, for their anti-aging & soothing action, propolis’ most proven beneficial effect on the skin is its role in wound healing. [5]

Acne

As mentioned above, propolis has the property of inhibiting the proliferation of various anaerobic bacteria, including Propionibacterium. In particular, it appears to inhibit the proliferation of Propionibacterium acnes which is the most common cause of acne. [5]

In fact, in a study where topical ethanolic propolis extract was applied to people with acne, significant antibacterial activity was observed in Gram-positive aerobic & anaerobic bacteria (eg Staphylococcus epidermidis, Propionibacterium acnes).

Metabolic Diseases

A review published in 2021 and studying the potential benefit of taking propolis in the prevention & treatment of metabolic diseases (e.g. diabetes, dyslipidemia, obesity), showed a number of beneficial effects in all of the above conditions. [3]

Therefore, it is considered important that further research is conducted to determine the exact relationship between propolis and metabolic diseases and to investigate the potential benefit of taking propolis in preventing the occurrence of metabolic diseases, but also in their better management. [3]

Cardiovascular Health

The beneficial effects of propolis on the cardiovascular system have been widely studied, although its mechanisms of action are not yet completely clear. [5]

It is considered that the benefit it gives is mainly due to its antioxidant action and its individual valuable components. According to epidemiological studies, a diet rich in flavonoids is positively associated with longevity and a reduced incidence of cardiovascular disease, while oxidative stress appears to contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease. [5]

Gut Health

The polyphenols contained in propolis appear to support the intestinal microflora, inhibiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria and suppressing their attachment to intestinal cells. [5]

According to recent studies, the use of propolis may contribute positively to conditions such as inflammatory and ulcerative colitis. The relevant research, however, is still at an early stage. [5]

Neuroprotection

Numerous studies have dealt with the neuroprotective action of propolis. It has been shown to be beneficial in both neurodegenerative diseases (e.g. Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease) and in conditions such as epilepsy. [5]

The causes of neurological dysfunction in pathological conditions such as the above, are considered to be associated with increased oxidative stress in the body, the induction of inflammatory signaling and delayed immune responses. Propolis, thanks to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, therefore seems to contribute to neuroprotection. [5]

Propolis also seems to work against retinal damage. The use of propolis as a preventive treatment for various eye diseases, such as macular degeneration and myopia, needs further investigation as it would be of great importance. [5]

Veterinary Use

Many of the forms in which propolis is available to humans for its various benefits are also suitable for use in animals. [1]

Recent research, in fact, suggests that the benefits of veterinary use of propolis are likely to be many, so it would be good to do further research into products that would be useful to help improve animal health. [1]

Safety

The majority of the chemical components of propolis are considered harmless and well tolerated by the human body, as long as the doses are not extremely high. In particular, it is considered that taking 70 mg orally per day is completely safe, while exceeding the dose of 15 g per day can cause side effects. [3] [5]

The main compounds of propolis belong to the category of polyphenols (e.g. flavonoids, phenolic acids, phenolic acid esters). With the exception of caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), all other polyphenols have low toxicity. However, safety and potential toxicity have not been investigated for many of the propolis components alone. [3]

Side Effects

Although generally considered safe and well tolerated, often taking propolis orally or topically on the skin (e.g. on the skin, throat) can lead to moderate to severe side effects. [3]

As a direct result of the topical application of propolis cosmetics, dermatitis, urticaria, edema and ulcerative gingivitis can be observed, especially in people with atopic predisposition. It has been shown, in fact, that about 1-7% of people with dermatitis are sensitive to propolis. [3]

Although the side effects of propolis are usually mild to moderate, there have been occasional cases of people experiencing significant discomfort and even anaphylactic shock. [3]

Contraindications

Propolis is not recommended during pregnancy and lactation, while it is contraindicated – as is natural – in people with allergies to bees & bee products. It is also recommended to be taken with special caution by people with atopic predisposition.

Use in children is generally considered safe and beneficial, whether for internal or external use, provided that none of the above contraindications apply. [3]

At Vita4you.gr you will find a wide variety of products with propolis!

References

1. Propolis: types, composition, biological activities, and veterinary product patent prospecting
2. Experimental Evidence for Therapeutic Potentials of Propolis
3. Potential Role of Propolis in the Prevention and Treatment of Metabolic Diseases
4. Propolis in Metabolic Syndrome and Its Associated Chronic Diseases: A Narrative Review
5. Evidence on the Health Benefits of Supplemental Propolis
6. The use of propolis as a functional food ingredient: A review
7. Immune-boosting agent: Immunomodulation potentials of propolis
8. Effectiveness of Propolis in the Treatment of Periodontal Disease: Updated Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis
9. Antibacterial Properties of Propolis