How To Use Propolis For Skin Benefits
6 Benefits of Bee Propolis + DIY Tincture Recipe
Have you ever mixed up a simple homemade cough syrup with honey or massaged this healing salve into a strained muscle? If so, you’ve already experienced some of the benefits of an ancient healing modality called apitherapy – aka the use of bee products for therapeutic purposes.
Clinical research now supports many traditional apitherapy uses, which is why you can now find medical grade honey for wound healing, store-bought honey cough syrup, and healing balms that include honey, propolis extract, bee pollen and royal jelly. Even bee venom has been the subject of clinical research. (1)
Products that focus exclusively on propolis are growing in number, too, and for good reason. It was revered by ancient Greeks, Romans and Egyptians, who “were aware of the healing properties of propolis and made extensive use of it as a medicine.” (2)
Modern research supports many of its traditional uses for immune system vitality, oral and gut microbiome health, wound healing and more.
So what exactly is it and how is it used? We’ll dive into all that below, but first I want to mention that none of these statements have been evaluated by the FDA, this article is not medical advice, and it’s not meant to diagnose or treat any condition. If you have a question about whether any dietary supplement is right for you, please talk with a qualified healthcare professional. Okay, let’s dive in!
What is bee propolis?
Aristotle himself is said to have coined the word propolis, which combines the Greek words pro (“in front of” or “in defense of”) and polis (“city”) to mean “in defense of the city” . . . or more accurately, the hive. (3) (4)
To understand why hives need such strong defenses, it’s important to know that honeybees “have far fewer genes dedicated to immune response” than any other insects that have undergone genome mapping, yet they live in cramped quarters that would seemingly be vulnerable to all kinds of unwanted pathogens. (5)
So how . . .
does a colony of bees, usually of 50,000 or more, crowded into a virtually hermetically-sealed space, at a constant temperature of 35°C (95°F) and with moisture levels of 90 per cent, manage to survive? Surely these conditions are perfect for the growing of bacteria and the spreading of disease, and yet bees have not only survived but prospered in such conditions.” (6)
The answer, of course, is propolis. Sometimes called “bee glue,” it’s a sticky mixture of tree resins, enzymes, and beeswax that bees use as a building material to plug up gaps and coat the walls. They also use it to narrow the entrance of the hive so that it’s easier to defend.
In addition to providing structural protection, propolis helps maintain the sanitary state of the hive via several bioactive compounds.
Dramatic as this may sound it is hard to avoid the conclusion that propolis effectively provides a form of externalised immune defence mechanism for the beehive, fulfilling its role in a multitude of ways. It does this at times by using very simple, practical, structural mechanisms. At other times it involves highly complex, pharmacological processes, aspects of which are as yet not entirely understood.” (6)
Beekeepers often remove bits of propolis while caring for their hives, but harvesting larger amounts usually involves placing a flexible screen with cracks just inside the top of the hive cover. The bees will instinctively fill in all the cracks, which allows the beekeeper to remove the entire screen and harvest the propolis.
Researchers used to think that encouraging bees to increase production in this way might decrease the quality of the propolis, but analysis of samples hasn’t shown this to be true. (Yay bees!) (7)
Bioactive Compounds In Bee Propolis
Bees are basically alchemists – they use plants from all around the world to create propolis, and even though each batch is unique in its chemical composition the synergistic effect is roughly the same. Unlike many natural products, there is no single “active” compound or set of compounds in propolis that outshines all the rest. Each batch varies based on region, the species of honey bee and the season in which the propolis was created. (7) (8)
According to Dr. Antanas Gendrolis, a Lithuanian researcher and apitherapy expert, scientists “have identified more than 67 species of plants from which bees collect raw materials for propolis,” and each one uniquely influences the color, aroma and flavor of the final product. (7)
Birch trees create green propolis, while others yield yellow or dark brown varieties. Although less common, it can even be pink if resin is gathered mostly from poplars. (7)
One of the most popular types of propolis – Brazilian – is primarily made from the resin of the Baccharis dracunculifolia plant (a type of rosemary) and tends to be green in color.
High quality propolis contains up to 70% resin and enzymes, with the remaining part comprising of beeswax, essential oils, and pollen. The “amount of wax depends on the use of propolis in the beehive: if it is used to strengthen the combs and repair the cracks in the hive, it contains more wax, and if it is used to cover the walls of the hive, honeycomb polishing, it has a lesser amount of wax.” (7)
All in all, over 600 bioactive compounds have been identified, including:
Potent flavonoids (quercetin, pinobanksin, apigenin, chrysin, pinocembrin, and galangin)
(quercetin, pinobanksin, apigenin, chrysin, pinocembrin, and galangin) Phenolic acids and coumarins (caffeic, coumaric acid, ferulic, and isoferulic acids, and caffeic acid phenethyl ester)
(caffeic, coumaric acid, ferulic, and isoferulic acids, and caffeic acid phenethyl ester) Flavonols, flavones, and flavonones (galangin,kaempferol, isorhamnetin, apigenin, pinocembrin and pinobanksin)
(galangin,kaempferol, isorhamnetin, apigenin, pinocembrin and pinobanksin) Minerals (manganese, zinc, chromium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium and more)
(manganese, zinc, chromium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium and more) Amino acids (mostly arginine and proline)
(mostly arginine and proline) Small amounts of some vitamins (B1, B2, B6, C and E plus beta-carotene) (7)(9)
Together, these compounds form the complex and highly synergistic sticky substance we call propolis. Each constituent complements and reinforces the biological activity of the others, making it one of the most fascinating and useful substances we know of.
6 Health Benefits of Propolis
Aristotle was so fascinated by bees that he commissioned a beehive to be constructed out of glass so he could observe them. It would have been amazing if it had worked, but they covered the walls in dark, sticky propolis and thwarted his plans. (6)
Despite possibly coining the word, Aristotle was far from the only individual fascinated by bees and bee products. Prominent Greek physicians such as Pedanius Dioscorides (40–90 CE) and Galen (129–217 CE) both wrote about the therapeutic uses of propolis, as did Aristotle. (4)
Modern physicians and researchers are still exploring it’s benefits, which include:
#1 – Immune System Support
Resin is part of a tree’s immune system, so the bees borrow a little to create propolis, which functions as “an extension of their immune system” according to Ross Conrad, author of Natural Beekeeping: Organic Approaches to Modern Apiculture. (5)
When we borrow a bit of propolis from the bees, it’s no surprise that the main objective is often immune support, too. Modern research supports this approach, with many studies finding that it has a beneficial influence on human immune function. (9) (10) (11) (12)
#2 – Soothes A Sore Throat
In this study, a throat spray containing propolis significantly eased discomfort in participants with sore throats. Research suggests that it helps by:
Soothing inflammation via a wide range of anti-inflammatory compounds
Helping to balance the oral/throat microbiome (13)
In another study, a oral supplementation with propolis also noticeably improved sore throat symptoms. (14)
Many lozenges contain corn syrup, but this one is formulated without it. There are lots of high quality throat sprays available, including:
#3 – Supports Wound Healing
Hippocrates, who is considered the father of modern medicine, was one of the first physicians to use propolis on wounds. (15) Not surprisingly, in recent studies topical propolis has been found to support healing for a variety of wounds including burns and surgical incisions. (16) (17)
It’s thought to help by:
Supporting skin cell rejuvenation (16)
Helping skin to maintain a sanitary state (which is one of the roles propolis plays in the hive)
Topical creams containing propolis are available – this is one worth considering.
When applied three times per day, ointments containing 0.5-3% propolis have also been found to ease cold sore symptoms. (18) Most options are formulated with petrolatum and liquid paraffin, but this one is made with natural oils and essential oils.
#4 – Supports Oral Health
A few years ago, a dentist put a sample of my saliva under a microscope for me to look at, and I realized I had some work to do regarding my oral health. I’d been focusing on my gut health for many years, but the mouth has its own unique microbiome that also deserves attention.
One thing I incorporated immediately was a dental probiotic, and more recently I’ve started adding a little propolis extract to my homemade mouthwash. Here’s why:
In two separate clinical trials with 70+ kids and a few adults, propolis reduced plaque buildup while supporting beneficial bacteria in the oral microbiome. (19) (20) The thing I love most about this study is that it was done with kids, because we all know kids are not always the most thorough when brushing their teeth.
In another small study, it actually worked better than regular commercial toothpaste for reducing plaque. (21) And in this study, children who used a chewing gum containing propolis and xylitol had lower counts of a bacteria called Streptococcus mutans, which is considered to be one of the primary causes of tooth decay and cavities. (22)
My checkups with my dentist showed a huge positive shift in my oral microbiome after incorporating a dental probiotic, and I’m looking forward to finding out what impact the propolis will have at the next cleaning.
#5 – Antioxidant Support
Our bodies break down toxins via oxidation – a process that transforms them into water-soluble compounds that can be flushed out of the body. Oxidation produces free radicals, which can damage tissues and accelerate aging,
Propolis is rich in antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals, which helps to reduce oxidative stress. (23) (24) (25) In one study, it also supported the production of glutathione, which is our body’s master antioxidant. (26)
#6 – Digestive Health
Research suggests that propolis supplementation may have a positive influence on the gut microbiome and the barrier function of intestinal walls. (27) It’s rich in polyphenols that feed beneficial bacteria while also soothing irritation
Where To Buy Propolis
There are a lot of high quality pre-made propolis extracts, spray, creams and other products available, but if you want to try your hand at making your own extract you’ll need to start with raw propolis. The best way to buy some is to reach out to your local beekeepers and see if they have any available – it’s often the most affordable option.
If you are unable to find it locally, Stakich is a family-owned company that’s been operating for nearly a century in rural Michigan. They sell propolis chunks that have been refined to remove the beeswax, plus pre-made propolis tinctures and other products. Their propolis chunks are also available here.
Print Pin 5 from 1 vote DIY Propolis Tincture Recipe Made with just two ingredients, this propolis tincture is rich in bioactive compounds that support immune vitality and oral / gut microbiome health while neutralizing free radicals and more. It can be taken orally, used in diluted form as a mouth rinse, or applied topically to cuts, scrapes, or cold sores. One quick note before you start: The resins in propolis are VERY sticky and the equipment you use to make propolis tincture will be difficult to clean. I have found that high proof alcohol will remove the resin from utensils and jars after use, but these days I just keep a couple of jars that are dedicated to making propolis tincture and only bother with cleaning the utensils. Prep Time 10 minutes Total Time 14 days Servings 10 ounces Calories Author Heather Dessinger Equipment cheesecloth
Clean meat mallet or sauerkraut packer
16 ounce jar
Clean cutting board
parchment paper
(I usually divide mine between two 4 ounce bottles and one 2 ounce bottle Glass amber dropper bottles
1.5 inch square labels (optional)
Downloadable label template (see download form below) Ingredients 1-2 ounces bee propolis (by weight)
9 ounces strong grain alcohol (Not rubbing alcohol – a grain alcohol intended for consumption. 75 proof or higher is best) Instructions Weigh 1-2 ounces of propolis and 9 ounces of high proof alcohol on a kitchen scale. Set alcohol aside.
Place the propolis chunks inside a cheesecloth and set the cloth on a clean cutting board.
Using a clean meat mallet or sauerkraut packer , pound the propolis into fine granules.
Place propolis in a 16 ounce jar and then add the alcohol.
Put the lid on. (If you're using a metal lid, line it with parchment paper so that it doesn’t come in contact with the tincture.)
Shake the jar well, then set it in a dark place (like a cabinet) and shake daily for two weeks.
After two weeks, strain the liquid through a piece of cheesecloth and then pour the propolis tincture into glass amber dropper bottles for use. Store in a cool, dark area (like a cabinet). Notes Nutrition facts not available.
Tips for Using Propolis Tincture
Since propolis is not a pharmaceutical product there are no official dosages, but some suppliers do provide general recommendations for usage. For example, this one from Herb Pharm, which combines propolis with 81-91% alcohol (roughly 160-180 proof) suggests “Two to four times per day 30 to 40 drops in a little water” for adults.
Propolis tincture can also be diluted in a bit of water to use as a mouth rinse, applied topically to cuts, scrapes, or cold sores, or added to a bandage before it is placed over a wound.
Who should not use bee propolis?
According to Dr. Antanas Gendrolis, the Lithuanian researcher and apitherapy expert I mentioned earlier, there are a few safety considerations regarding propolis. Here are his suggestions, which are from his book: Propolis. Natural Medicine. (translated from Lithuanian):
Although to our best knowledge, no harm of propolis has been established, however, it was observed that some people are allergic, therefore, you must first make sure that you are not sensitive to it. It must be used with caution by patients with bronchial asthma, eczema and other allergic diseases. If you notice allergic reactions from propolis, its use should be discontinued. Prof. A. Siniakov states that about 0.3 to 2% of people are allergic to propolis. In mild cases, local symptoms of a week allergic reaction appear (redness, itching, rash, etc.), in severe cases, a common reaction is weakness, dizziness, fever, etc. All this indicates that you cannot start the treatment with propolis products without first checking the patient allergenicity. . . . Note that propolis may enhance and potentiate some antihypertensive medicines. Therefore, when prescribing propolis, you may need to lower the quantities of blood pressure-lowering medicine. Propolis products should also be used with caution in patients with decreased blood viscosity. Since propolis extracts contain significant concentrations of ethanol, therefore, patients with liver disease can use it only after consultation with a doctor.”
He also adds that a physician’s dosage recommendations should always be followed. In the United States doctors rarely suggest propolis – though mine does – and no formal dosage are established, so most people opt to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
A couple of additional notes:
Individuals who are allergic to bees or other bee products such as honey should avoid propolis
An in vitro (test tube) study suggests that propolis may lower the availability of the CYP1AA2 enzyme that is used to metabolize several common medicines including metabolism of theophylline, acetaminophen, propranolol and a number of antidepressants. Always consult with your doctor before using propolis if you are on any prescription medications.
More Apitherapy Recipes To Try
Honey Cough Syrup – This three-ingredient recipe is my go-to for sore, scratchy throats. (Four if you add a bit of propolis extract!)
Honey & Lemon Herbal Cough Drops – These cough drops are amazing for soothing a sore, scratchy throat. They’re easy to make and you only need five natural ingredients.
Fire Cider – This spicy, delicious apple cider vinegar infusion is made with powerful immune-supporting, lymph moving, circulation stimulating, and digestion enhancing fresh herbs mixed with honey.
Elderberry Syrup – Elderberries are revered for their ability to support immune function, increase vitamin C absorption, and more. Here’s how to make a delicious traditional preparation of elderberries and honey at home.
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How To Use Propolis?
It may be used to seal and protect a beehive in its natural state, but propolis – the miraculous “bee glue” that keeps beehives humming along – opens up a world of useful possibilities as well. While the honey and beeswax it protects enjoy recognition and great “PR,” this hardworking substance often goes overlooked – at the consumer level, anyway. It may surprise you to learn that health and beauty products, health supplements, and even medicines you are already using may contain propolis or propolis-derived ingredients.
Rise & Shine With Propolis
While you may put a chunk of honeycomb on your morning toast or mix a dollop of honey into your tea, chances are you don’t think much about honeybees in the morning. After breakfast, however, it may have more of an effect on your day than you realize. Propolis is naturally antibacterial and anti-fungal, which is why it’s so prized as an ingredient in many natural brand toothpastes and mouthwashes. Unlike harsh chemicals that may damage healthy microbes along with “bad” ones, propolis helps fight off the bacteria that threaten gum health.
While not all kinds of toothpaste contain this powerful natural ingredient, it’s still easy to spot in the toothpaste aisle. Typically mixed into formulas that emphasize a lack of harsh chemicals and additives, it’s a favorite inclusion for “green” brands.
Your Best Body With Propolis
Taken as a supplement, propolis lends its anti-inflammatory healing properties to your existing immune system responses, boosting recovery and potentially even offering resistance against bacteria and fungal infections. Fast wound healing means less chance of infection as well, which is why propolis is also incorporated into creams and salves, in both prescribed medications and over-the-counter balms. Several studies have found that regularly applying a propolis-containing ointment to injuries like burns helped patients recover faster than a placebo or no treatment at all.
Whether you use a wound-specific propolis cream or opt for a moisturizing lotion that contains the antibacterial, anti-inflammatory agent, it’s easy to enjoy the benefits of bees’ hard work and smooth, healthy skin as well.
How To Consume Propolis Effectively?
Just like honey and the flower pollen used to make it, the exact composition of propolis will vary from hive to hive. While propolis should not be taken by anyone with a sensitivity to honey-based products or a bee allergy, different propolis sources may offer more powerful effects on the curious consumer. While derivative supplements (e.g., propolis capsules) contain a large amount of propolis, it’s not always optimized for consumption, and may even be passed through the body without doing much good.
Our human ancestors once discovered the sweet, delicious taste of honey by going straight to the source, and to this day, the glorious honeycomb offers the same honey by-products (including propolis) that are as easy to access today as they were thousands of years ago. Unprocessed and unfiltered, eating propolis as part of a honeycomb snack (propolis is what bees use to fabricate the white “caps” over each honeycomb cell) makes it both easily digestible and enjoyable. Rather than an over-processed pill or tablet, the experience is instead filled with the flavorful nuances of flower and pollen as well as the honey inside. In order to eat it au naturale, try snacking on a piece of Pass the Honey honeycomb and chewing the wax the way you would a gum. This will help your body absorb the benefits of propolis the same way humans have done for centuries.
Propolis In Healthcare
Used in a variety of off-the-shelf products at the consumer level, the healthcare field has also begun to explore what propolis is capable of as a treatment. Because it can be harvested without harming the hive (like honey and beeswax), propolis has the potential to become a true superstar in the fields of healing and bacterial resistance.
In the dental field, professionals have started experimenting with using propolis-containing compounds to treat and prevent caries – what we commonly call cavities – in teeth. Because bacteria needs an uninterrupted breeding ground to infect healthy tooth material and break it down, propolis works by making the tooth surface inhospitable to these invaders. These are just a few of many purported health benefits of honey that continue to garner attention and research within the world of science and medicine.
Propolis: An All-Purpose Wonder
In a hive, propolis is what keeps intruders, from chilly drafts to bacteria-carrying insects and rodents, from harming the careful internal balance. It does this in two ways – with a chemical makeup that prevents the growth and spread of bacteria and fungi, and a physical makeup that acts as a moisture-proof barrier.
By harnessing these twin properties in health and beauty and medical applications, humans have begun to see what all the “buzz” is about. To bees, this propolis solution is simply a sticky compound that helps smooth internal hive edges and keeps the colony safe. To humans, however, this “bee glue” may well be worth its weight in gold. From its use in skin products to healing treatments, the benefits are clearly manifold.
Sources Cited:
How To Use Propolis For Skin Benefits
Thanks to K-beauty’s influence in the beauty and skincare space, many ingredients that flew under the radar are now popular for beauty treatments (snail slime for wrinkles, anyone?). One of them is propolis. While honey gets all the notoriety, propolis has been around as a treatment for thousands of years (in fact, Cleopatra reportedly used propolis for its skincare benefits). If you want to learn what the buzz is all about, keep reading for its skin benefits according to Mona Gohara, MD, a dermatologist in Connecticut, and Louie Lopez, marketing director at propolis-focused brand Banila Co.
Propolis is a sticky glue-like substance made by worker bees.
While propolis and honey both come from bees and look similar in appearance, they serve different purposes. Honey is made using the nectar of flowering plants, and is a source of food for bees. Propolis, on the other hand, is used as an everyday tool for bees and is a mix of beeswax, saliva, and resin gathered from deciduous trees (aka trees that shed their leaves in the fall). Bees create and rely on propolis to protect their hives by using it to 1) seal cracks to keep out the cold weather and predators and 2) use it to sterilize and disinfect the colony. These functions happen to be beneficial to skin as well.
Propolis is antibacterial and especially great for acne.
You’re probably wondering how the bee equivalent of household caulk can get you clear skin. According to Dr. Gohara, the four main benefits of propolis include its ability to “act as an antibacterial, help with wound healing, moisturize, and be a powerful antioxidant.”
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People with acne-prone skin reap the benefits of propolis. “Its antibacterial properties can fight acne-causing bacteria, while the moisturizing and healing properties help repair skin faster post-acne as well,” says Dr. Gohara.
Propolis is also a powerful anti-inflammatory that contains “amino acids, phenolic acids, phenolic acid esters, flavonoids, cinnamic acid, terpenoids, and caffeic acid” according to Lopez. Translation: It helps reduce irritation caused by acne (or other wounds) as well as speed the healing process. And similar to the aloe plant, propolis is a great option for those who are suffering with a sun or windburn as it reduces inflammation and protects the compromised skin barrier.
Propolis can be used on all skin types.
The ingredient is totally safe for use in your everyday skincare routine. It provides moisture for those with dry skin, and is even recommended to those with oily skin as it “appears to be absorptive” according to Dr. Gohara. “It’s helpful in the anti-aging process. It also has anti-inflammatory properties—a lot of people swear by it for their skin.”
The best propolis-based products:
When asked what types of propolis-based products Dr. Gohara would recommend to her patients, she said she would recommend serums as “they are highly concentrated in product but you don't need a lot.” Here are our favorite propolis-based skincare products for every budget:
CosRX Propolis Light Ampoule
With 83 percent propolis extract, this lightweight, non-sticky ampoule is one of the most concentrated on the market. You can use it as an all over moisture treatment.
COSRX Propolis Light Ampoule COSRX Propolis Light Ampoule $28 at Ulta Beauty
Miss Flower & Mr. Honey Cream
Dry skin, be gone! With six types of premium honey blended together, this balmy cream seriously nourishes parched skin.
Banila Co Miss Flower & Mr. Honey Cream Banila Co Miss Flower & Mr. Honey Cream Now 30% Off $29 at Ulta Beauty
Tosowoong Pure Propolis Mask
For those looking to literally soak up all the benefits of propolis, this mask is fully saturated in the extract. Add brightness to the skin while also combating acne and wrinkles all in one 20-minute sitting!
Peach and Lily Pure Propolis Mask Pack Peach and Lily Pure Propolis Mask Pack $2 at Peach & Lily
The Organic Pharmacy Blemish Gel
The Organic Pharmacy's Blemish Gel is a spot treatment that clears up your acne but doesn’t dry you out. It's packed with powerful acne-fighting ingredients that not only help reduce blemishes, but also help soothe and heal.
The Organic Pharmacy Blemish Gel The Organic Pharmacy Blemish Gel $39 at
Pevonia Bontanica Soothing Propolis Concentrate
Dubbed liquid gold, this serum is perfect for those who suffer from skin irritations or have sensitive skin. And while it might be the most expensive of those listed here, a little goes a long way!
Pevonia Lavandou Soothing Propolis Concentrate Pevonia Lavandou Soothing Propolis Concentrate $79 at Dermstore
