Propolis forms a protective layer on the gastric mucosa, soothing inflammation and accelerating healing in cases of gastritis and stomach ulcers.
Its selective antibacterial action makes it an excellent supportive therapy in the fight against the stubborn bacterium Helicobacter pylori, while its antifungal properties effectively suppress the excessive growth of the fungus Candida albicans.
It is best taken in the form of drops diluted in lukewarm water, on an empty stomach, before meals.
How does propolis act on the stomach and digestive system?
Propolis is rich in polyphenols, particularly flavonoids, which have a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect. A comprehensive review of the pharmacological properties of propolis confirms that flavonoids such as quercetin and kaempferol inhibit key inflammatory pathways in the mucosa of the digestive tract.
The gastric mucosa is not a passive lining that protects the stomach from acid. It is a living, dynamic, and constantly renewing protective layer: every few days its cells are replaced with new ones in order to withstand one of the most acidic environments in the human body.
Let us return to the hive and the importance of propolis in protecting the bee colony: if this substance is important for preserving the environment and is considered the key to safety, we can view our gut microbiota in the same way — as the key to the safety of our immune system.
The balance and health of our digestive system is increasingly being researched and linked to the overall immune system of the organism. However, when inflammation, infection, prolonged stress, or certain medications disrupt this sensitive system, the mucosa becomes irritated and vulnerable — which then manifests in various ways and complaints.
This is precisely where the potential of propolis is being explored. When introduced into the body, its bioactive compounds are associated with a reduction in oxidative stress and inflammatory processes that can contribute to tissue damage.
Unlike synthetic antibiotics that often destroy both good and bad bacteria in the gut, propolis acts selectively — it targets pathogenic microorganisms while simultaneously preserving and promoting the growth of a healthy gut microflora.
A review in Molecules (Zullkiflee et al., 2022) highlights the immunomodulatory effect of propolis on gut immunity, which accounts for nearly 80% of the entire immune system.
Does propolis help with stomach ulcers and gastritis?
Gastritis is an inflammation of the gastric mucosa that causes pain, heartburn, nausea, and a feeling of heaviness in the stomach. If left untreated, it can lead to the development of an ulcer. People suffering from gastritis often describe the feeling as if their stomach is "burning" or "scratched from the inside".
Propolis directly reduces the inflammatory process on the stomach walls. Its regenerative properties promote epithelialisation, i.e. the renewal of damaged mucosal cells, thereby accelerating the healing of ulcers.
A review of wound healing with propolis documents accelerated epithelialisation and reduced inflammation in tissues treated with propolis.
Propolis also gently regulates gastric acid secretion, reducing the sensation of burning and heartburn.
How to use propolis for the stomach?
For stomach complaints, it is recommended to take 15 to 20 drops of propolis diluted in half a glass of lukewarm water or mild tea (e.g. chamomile or yarrow), 2 to 3 times daily.
It is best taken on an empty stomach, about 30 minutes before meals, so that the solution can coat the gastric mucosa unhindered.
Many people notice the greatest comfort precisely at that moment. Before food and digestive processes take over, the stomach is calmer and more rested — and that is the moment when propolis is traditionally used as part of a routine for supporting the digestive system.
For people with a very sensitive stomach, the use of alcohol-free propolis drops or native propolis in capsules is recommended.
*Please note that propolis is not a substitute for therapy prescribed by a doctor.
Fighting Helicobacter pylori — can propolis help?
It is no coincidence that we used the word "fight" — Helicobacter pylori is an extremely resilient bacterium that survives in the acidic environment of the stomach and is the main cause of chronic gastritis and stomach ulcers. While most microorganisms would perish very quickly in the highly acidic environment of the stomach, H. pylori manages to settle there and survive for years.
A comprehensive review of the mechanisms of action of propolis on H. pylori shows that propolis acts in two ways:
- It directly inhibits the growth and reproduction of the bacterium
- while simultaneously reducing inflammation of the gastric mucosa.
Propolis prevents the bacterium from binding to the stomach wall and disrupts the formation of its protective biofilm, as confirmed by a study on the inhibitory effect of propolis on H. pylori and urease.
Due to the challenges of treatment and the persistent return of the bacterium to the stomach, a growing number of experts and phytotherapists view propolis as a potential supportive therapy alongside prescribed treatment or as part of a preventive approach after successful recovery.
Propolis as a remedy for Candida (Candida albicans)?
Candidiasis is an infection caused by the excessive proliferation of the fungus Candida albicans, which is otherwise a normal inhabitant of our gut. It is not an enemy in itself, but becomes a problem when it overgrows — which most commonly occurs after a drop in immunity, prolonged antibiotic use, or a diet rich in refined sugars.
Propolis has a strong antifungal action. A study on the antifungal activity of propolis on clinical Candida isolates shows that propolis inhibits the virulence factors of Candida, preventing the fungus from transforming from its harmless form into an invasive form that penetrates the intestinal wall.
In addition, a study on the antifungal activity of propolis extract confirms the effectiveness of propolis in the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis.
To combat intestinal Candida, taking propolis drops (approx. 20 drops, 3 times daily) in combination with a strict anti-Candida diet (without sugar and white flour) yields excellent results.
However, it is important to emphasise that symptoms such as bloating, fatigue, or digestive disorders are not in themselves proof of intestinal candidiasis, and it is always advisable to consult a doctor before self-treating.
Note: This text is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. For the diagnosis and treatment of health problems, particularly chronic gastritis, Candida, and H. pylori infections, always consult your doctor.
