Propolis
Natural Standard evidence-based flashcard. Copyright © 2008 (www.naturalstandard.com). Commercial distribution prohibited. This flashcard is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions. 		Image
While some complementary and alternative techniques have been studied scientifically, high-quality data regarding safety, effectiveness, and mechanism of action are limited or controversial for most therapies. Whenever possible, it is recommended that practitioners be licensed by a recognized professional organization that adheres to clearly published standards. In addition, before starting a new technique or engaging a practitioner, it is recommended that patients speak with their primary healthcare provider(s). Potential benefits, risks (including financial costs), and alternatives should be carefully considered. The below monograph is designed to provide historical background and an overview of clinically-oriented research, and neither advocates for or against the use of a particular therapy.

Summary:
Propolis is a natural resin created by bees to make their hives. Propolis is made from the buds of conifer and poplar tress and combined with beeswax and other bee secretions. Historically, propolis was used by the ancient Greeks to treat abscesses, by the Assyrians to heal wounds and tumors, and by the Egyptians for mummification. Today, propolis is commonly found in chewing gum, cosmetics, creams, cough drops, and ointments.

Uses
These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
Grade*
Acute cervicitis C
Burns C
Dental analgesia (and wound healing) C
Dental plaque and gingivitis (mouthwash) C
Genital herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection C
Helicobacter pylori C
Infections (bacterial, parasitic, fungal) C
Legg-Calve-Perthes disease/avascular hip necrosis C
Post-herpetic corneal complications C
Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (mouth wounds) C
Rheumatic diseases C
Rhinopharyngitis prevention (children) C
Upper respiratory tract infection (children) C
Vaginitis C
*Key to grades: A: Strong scientific evidence for this use; B: Good scientific evidence for this use; C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use; D: Fair scientific evidence against this use (it may not work); F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likely does not work).

Safety:
Avoid if allergic or hypersensitive to propolis, black poplar (Populas nigra), poplar bud, bee stings, bee products, honey, and Balsam of Peru. Severe allergic reactions have been reported. Use cautiously with asthma or gastrointestinal disorders. Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding because of the high alcohol content in some products.

Possible side effects:
Allergic reactions, anaphylactic shock, burning, contact dermatitis, erythematous vesicular lesions (skin wounds), fever, gastrointestinal side effects, hyperkeratotic dermatitis, itching, laryngeal edema (swelling), lip and oral wounds, mucositis, nasal abrasion, perioral eczema, kidney failure, stomatitis (mouth sores), swelling, vesiculitis, vulval eczema.

Possible interactions:
Agents eliminated through the kidneys, antibacterials, antifungals, anti-inflammatory agents, antineoplastic (anticancer) agents, antiparasitics, blood thinners, HIV medications, immunostimulants, immunosuppresants, numbing agents, pain relievers, radioprotective agents, vasorelaxant agents, and herbs and supplements with similar effects.

Dosing:

Adults (18 years and older):
There is no proven safe or effective medicinal dose of propolis.

Children (younger than 18 years):
There is no proven safe or effective medicinal dose of propolis.
Natural Standard Monograph (www.naturalstandard.com)
Copyright © 2008 Natural Standard Inc. Commercial distribution or reproduction prohibited.
The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.