What is propolis and what is it good for?

Known since ancient times as the "natural antibiotic", propolis is one of the most precious gifts from the hive. Although honey is the most well-known bee product, it is propolis that is the silent guardian of the bee colony: its shield, protector, and natural disinfection system.

Its uses range from relieving the common cold and sore throat, to caring for problematic skin and supporting the digestive system.

Today it is used by millions of people around the world, and scientific research increasingly confirms its effectiveness and importance.

Science is at its best when it confirms that nature's gifts, treated in the right way, are the greatest help for ailments that each of us has encountered many times in life.

What is propolis and how is it made?

Propolis is a resinous substance that bees produce to protect the hive, and it is known for its powerful antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties.

It has been known for centuries as a true gift of nature, and a growing number of households rely on its benefits in all seasons, not just in winter. It is most commonly used for supporting immunity, soothing an irritated throat, caring for problematic skin, and supporting the digestive system.

It comes in various forms, including alcohol-based drops, sprays, ointments, and native (alcohol-free) propolis, making it adaptable for children, pregnant women, and adults.

The very name "propolis" (from the Greek words pro = in front of and polis = city, meaning "defence of the city") is remarkably precise and gives us insight into the workings of this magical product of tireless bee labour.

If we imagine the hive as a well-organised city, propolis is its defensive wall, disinfection service, and public health system all in one. Without it, the bee colony would be far more vulnerable to bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other environmental threats.

It is a resinous, sticky substance that worker bees collect from buds, bark, and leaves of trees, most commonly poplar, birch, and conifers. Bees mix this plant resin with their own enzymes and beeswax, creating a unique substance rich in biologically active compounds.

What is propolis used for inside the hive?

Bees use it as a building material to seal cracks in the hive, but its primary role is sterilisation.

Propolis coats the interior of the hive, protecting the bee colony from the invasion of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites by creating an almost sterile environment despite the humidity and heat — conditions in which microorganisms would otherwise spread easily.

Interestingly, bees also use propolis to "mummify" larger intruders, such as insects or small rodents that die inside the hive and cannot be carried out. By covering them with propolis, they prevent decomposition and the development of harmful microorganisms — a fascinating example that further demonstrates how powerful its natural protective function truly is.

What is propolis made of?

Its composition is extremely complex and depends on its geographic origin and the plant species from which it was collected.

On average it contains 50% resin, 30% wax, 10% essential oils, 5% pollen, and 5% other organic substances. Scientists have so far identified more than 300 different compounds in propolis, among which flavonoids and phenolic compounds hold a special place, responsible for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as confirmed by a comprehensive review published in the journal Molecules.

Medicinal properties: What is propolis good for?

Propolis is unique in nature because it acts simultaneously as an antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory agent. According to a review of the pharmacological properties of propolis published in Chinese Medicine, propolis has proven effective in treating a wide spectrum of health conditions.

Its uniqueness lies in the fact that it does not act on just one organ or one symptom. Instead, propolis supports the body's natural defence mechanisms, which is why it has been used for centuries as part of traditional medicine in Europe, Asia, and South America.

Its most important properties include:

• Boosting immunity: Regular consumption of propolis can stimulate the immune system and increase the body's resistance to seasonal infections. A systematic review in the journal Nutrients confirms the immunomodulatory effect of propolis in adults. Many people reach for propolis precisely during transitional periods of the year — autumn and winter — when the immune system faces its greatest challenges. Its advantage is that it does not act only when symptoms appear, but can also be part of a preventive daily routine.

 

• Respiratory tract and throat: It quickly soothes throat inflammation, relieves cough, and helps with hoarseness and sinus inflammation. A study on the antiviral and immunomodulatory activities of propolis documents its effectiveness against respiratory infections. It is no coincidence that propolis is one of the most common ingredients in throat sprays and lozenges. Its ability to form a protective layer on the irritated mucous membrane often brings rapid relief from burning and scratching in the throat.

• Oral hygiene: It prevents dental plaque build-up, soothes gum inflammation (periodontitis), and accelerates the healing of mouth ulcers. A systematic review and meta-analysis records a significant reduction in gum inflammation. Due to its antimicrobial properties, propolis is increasingly found in natural toothpastes and mouthwashes.

It is important to know that alcohol-based propolis is not recommended for application to open wounds and mouth ulcers due to possible irritation — but nature has shown its power here too through native propolis, which is indicated for oral complaints, and many confirm that external compresses applied to the cheeks help with inflammation in the oral cavity!

• Skin health: It accelerates the healing of wounds, burns, and acne, and is highly effective in combating herpes. A clinical study shows that propolis outperforms antibiotic creams in the treatment of acne. Its anti-inflammatory action and ability to stimulate tissue regeneration are the reasons it has long been used in ointments and creams for sensitive and problematic skin, and it is increasingly popular for skincare among adolescents dealing with pimples and acne.

• Digestive system: It helps restore the gastric mucosa in cases of gastritis and fights the bacterium Helicobacter pylori. A comprehensive review in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences confirms the inhibitory effect on H. pylori.

Research suggests that its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may play an important role in preserving the integrity of the digestive tract mucosa and reducing oxidative stress.

Antiviral and antibacterial action of propolis

Propolis acts as a natural shield against pathogens. Flavonoids in propolis interfere with viral replication and destroy bacterial cell walls, as documented by a review of the antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic properties of propolis (Foods, Zulhendri et al., 2021).

This is why propolis is often described as a natural response to the challenges of the modern age, in which bacterial resistance to antibiotics is becoming an increasingly serious global problem.

Unlike synthetic antibiotics that destroy both good and bad bacteria, propolis acts selectively, does not disrupt the natural gut flora, and is not associated with the same pattern of resistance development. This is precisely why scientists in recent years have been intensively researching its potential as a complementary natural remedy, as highlighted by a review in MDPI International Journal of Molecular Sciences (Martinotti et al., 2025).

It is important to emphasise that propolis is not a substitute for antibiotics prescribed by a doctor, but it can represent a valuable addition to general health care and support for the body.

Which form of propolis should you choose?

Several forms of propolis are available on the market today, and the choice depends on your specific needs and the complaints you wish to treat.

 

When choosing a product, also pay attention to the quality of the raw material and the origin of the propolis. Since its composition depends on the plant life surrounding the bees, propolis from different regions may contain different concentrations of bioactive compounds.

Allergies and side effects: Who should be cautious?

Although propolis is generally very safe to use, it is important to know that it can cause allergic reactions in people who are already allergic to bee products (honey, pollen, bee stings). Cleveland Clinic (2026) and WebMD (2025) list contact dermatitis and mucosal irritation as the most common side effects.

Symptoms of a propolis allergy most commonly include redness, itching, or a rash on the skin (with external use) and swelling of the lips and a burning sensation in the mouth (with oral use).

Tip: Before first use, perform a simple test. Apply one drop of propolis to the inner side of your forearm. If no redness appears after 24 hours, propolis is most likely safe for you.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to exercise caution and consult a doctor before use.

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, always consult your doctor or pharmacist.