Propolis

Propolis Improves Glycemic Control in Subjects With Type 2 Diabetes and Chronic Periodontitis

INTRODUCTION

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder characterized by frequent periods of hyperglycemia, which induce certain molecular pathways that seem to be crucial to the initiation of angiopathic complications of DM. Several mechanisms have been suggested to explain the pathogenicity of complications of hyperglycemia such as protein kinase C isoforms, enhanced polyol pathway flux, and increased accumulation of advanced glycosylated end-products. A dysregulated immune response stemming from an inappropriate cytokine production is a possible mechanism underpinning the cross-susceptibility between periodontal disease and DM. DM has been unambiguously determined as one of the major risk factors of periodontitis. It was reported that the risk of periodontitis increases to almost threefold in diabetic patients when compared to healthy individuals. The glycemic control level is believed to be of paramount importance as a determinant of the increased risk for developing complications. Diabetic patients with an HbA1c level more than 9% were found to have an increased prevalence of advanced chronic periodontitis in comparison to healthy people according to the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) III.

Two decades ago, periodontitis was added to represent the sixth complication of DM. Individuals suffering from periodontal diseases often have increased serum levels of proinflammatory cytokines, such as IL-1, IL-6 and TNF-α. Diabetic patients with periodontitis possess hyperinflammatory immune cells that lead to enhanced release of proinflammatory cytokines, which eventually lead to insulin resistance resulting in a greater risk of poor glycemic control when compared to diabetic patients without periodontitis. The accumulation of irreversible advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), predominantly N€-(carboxymethyl) lysine (CML) has shown to alter cell function and tissue structure. Due to difficulty in managing diabetes; there is a critical need for new therapeutic modalities for prevention of diabetes-related complications.

Propolis is a natural resin synthesized by honey bees from substances extracted from parts of some plants, buds and sap. Due to its physical characteristics, propolis is utilized by the honey bees to protect the hives against foreign invaders. Propolis has been used for centuries as a homeopathic medicine known for its anti-inflammatory properties, especially in Europe and ancient Egypt. It has traditionally been used for the management of numerous diseases, such as gastrointestinal disorders and mucocutaneous infections of fungal, bacterial and viral etiology.

There are several types of propolis that differ in composition depending on the plant source which varies according to the geographic zone such as Brazil, Peru, China and Europe. Propolis contains more than more than 230 constituents, including flavonoids, cinnamic acids and their esters, caffeic acid and caffeic acid phenethyl ester. It has been found to have a wide array of biological activities, including antibacterial, antiviral, fungicidal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, free radical scavenging, immunomodulatory and anti-diabetic activity. Recently, investigations revealed that caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) is an important active molecule found in propolis and is responsible for most of its therapeutic properties.

The actions of Chinese and Brazilian propolis in streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetes mellitus in Sprague Dawley rats was explored and the results indicated that both types of propolis significantly inhibited more body weight loss and plasma glucose increase in experimental rats. Additionally, rats treated with Chinese propolis exhibited an 8.4% reduction in HbA1c levels in comparison to non-treated diabetic group.

Hence, it was hypothesized that periodontal therapy with SRP in conjunction with oral daily supplementation of propolis in patients with chronic periodontitis and T2DM might improve both diabetic and periodontal outcomes. Thus, the aim of the current study is to evaluate whether the adjunctive therapy of oral propolis supplementation to SRP compared to SRP plus placebo, reduces glycated hemoglobin and improves clinical and periodontal parameters after 6 months of therapy in individuals with chronic periodontitis and T2DM.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Study Population:

The study was approved by the Institutional Review Board of Mansoura University. Subjects were selected during their recall maintenance visits in the Internal Medicine Hospital, Mansoura University, between June and December in 2014. Patients filled out questionnaires gathering information on their dental and oral health care followed by a periodontal screening examination to determine eligible individuals. Patients were considered eligible for the study if they had T2DM with a minimum of five years duration and had been taking stable doses of oral hypoglycemic drugs and/or insulin for at least 6 months. In addition, they should have chronic periodontitis with probing pocket depth and clinical attachment loss ≥ 5 mm with detectable bleeding on probing in at least one site in each sextant. Patients should have a minimum of 20 teeth to be selected. All patients were diagnosed to have moderate to severe chronic periodontitis according to Armitage criteria (24). Exclusion criteria included smokers, recent extended use of antibiotics or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs within the last 3 months, patients who had any periodontal therapy within one year, patients with grade 3 or 4 retinopathy, pregnancy or women using oral contraceptives. Enrolled patients signed written informed consents for study participation.

Study Design:

Fifty two people with T2DM diagnosed with moderate to severe chronic periodontitis were randomly assigned using computer-generated random tables to receive propolis (400 mg capsule orally once daily for six months) as adjuvant to scaling and root planing (Propolis+ SRP group, n = 26), or matching placebo capsules for 6 months in addition to scaling and root planing (Placebo+SRP group, n = 26) in this parallel randomized blinded controlled trial with an allocation ratio = 1:1. The generated allocation sequences were concealed in closed stapled envelopes until interventions were assigned. Investigators were not involved during randomization. Propolis commercially named BioPropolis (Sigma Pharmaceutical Industries for International Business Establishment Co. IBE Pharma, Cairo, Egypt) and matching placebo capsules were used in the study. All participants in both groups were assigned to receive equal number of capsules during the 6- month period. Vials which contain propolis and placebo drugs were labeled with specific codes unknown to patients and investigators. Patients were instructed to take only one capsule daily from the given vial. Patient compliance was calculated by counting the remaining capsules in each returned vial every month. Untoward side effects of both medications were queried and recorded at each visit during the study period.

All individuals received meticulous full mouth scaling and root planing (SRP) with hand curettes and ultrasonic tips under local anesthesia until root surfaces were smooth by clinician (MA) in a single visit. Oral hygiene instructions and motivations for proper tooth brushing and dental flossing were given to the patients. Chlohexidine 0.12% mouthrinse was prescribed for all patients for only two weeks after SRP.

Clinical Periodontal Measurements:

Clinical periodontal parameters including probing pocket depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL) (distance from the CEJ to the base of the pocket), Eastman interdental bleeding (EIBI) , gingival (GI) and plaque (PI) indices were assessed at baseline, 3 months and 6 months after therapy by the examiner (HE). Intra-examiner calibration was achieved by examination of 10 patients twice, 24 hours apart before starting the study. Calibration was accepted if measurements of PD and CAL (by using UNC-15 probe) at baseline and 24 hours were similar to 1 mm at the 90% level.

Collection and analysis of Blood:

10 mL of venous blood from the antecubital vein of all participants were collected in heparinized vacutainer tubes at baseline, 3 months and 6 months after treatment. Measurements of HbA1c were carried out via an automated affinity chromatography system (Bio-Rad Micromat II, Hercules, CA). Fasting plasma glucose levels (FPG) were measured by the standard glucose oxidase method. The serum concentration of N€-(carboxymethyl) lysine (CML) was assessed by N€-(carboxymethyl) lysine (CML) ELISA Kit of CML protein adducts (OxiSelect™, Catalog Number STA-316, Cell Biolabs Inc., San Diego, CA, USA). The amount of CML adduct in protein samples was evaluated by comparing the absorbance to a known CML-BSA standard curve as described by the manufacturer.

Study outcomes:

The primary outcome of the present clinical trial was the change in HbA1c levels after 6 months of therapy. Secondary outcomes included the change in HbA1c levels after 3 months in addition to the amount of CAL gain, PD reduction and changes in FPG and serum CML levels after 3 and 6 months of therapy.

Statistical Analysis:

A power analysis was performed before commencement of the trial with type I error α = 0.05, β = 0.14 and (1-β) = 0.86. The power was calculated as p = 0.8641 and the estimated minimum sample size required was found to be 20 per each group to achieve a power of 80% based on achievement of 6-month reduction of HbA1c of the test group over the control by 0.8%. All data were explored by using Kolmogrov-Smirnov test of normality. Parametric data were presented as mean ± SD. Baseline comparisons were made using Student's t-test. One-way analyses of variance (ANOVA) with Holm-Sidak post hoc correction for multiple comparisons were used to determine significant changes at different time intervals. Wilcoxon signed rank test and Mann-Whitney test were used to detect differences per group and between groups over time. The α-level for significance was set at 0.05.Statistical analyses were calculated by a statistical software program (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 19.0, SPSS, Chicago, IL).

Propolis: Benefits, Uses, and Possible Side Effects

Propolis is a waxy or resinous mixture made by honeybees. Propolis has a variety of colours like white, red, brown and black. People also call it bee glue because bees use it to build their hives. Bees also use propolis to defend against parasites. It mixes the bees’ saliva with beeswax and tree exudates. The composition, colour, and properties of propolis vary from region to region, depending on the type of plants, flowers, and trees used to make propolis. However, what is common in all propolis forms is its health benefits.

People in Greece, Egypt, Assyria, use propolis as traditional medicine for many purposes. For example, it heals wounds, stomach ailments, and sore throats. It also has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancerous properties, with potential pharmacological uses. Additionally, propolis may ease COVID-19 symptoms and help heal the lungs. Propolis also shows anti-microbial properties against bacteria, fungi, and protozoans. You can take propolis as a supplement, mouthwash, or topical ointment on the skin.

Composition of Propolis

Propolis is a natural resin. 100g of propolis contains:

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Resin: 50g

Wax: 30g

Essential oils: 10g

Organic compounds: 10g

The organic compounds in propolis include amino acids, sugars, minerals, vitamins, antioxidants and bioactive compounds. It contains vitamins B1, B2, B6, C and E. In addition, it contains bioactive compounds like flavonoids, polyphenols, and organic acids. The minerals present include magnesium, copper, zinc, manganese and iron.

Health Benefits of Propolis

1. Propolis Helps Regulate Blood Sugar

Regulated blood sugar levels are essential to maintain a healthy body. However, health conditions like diabetes prevent blood sugar control. In addition, oxidative stress caused by free-radical damage worsens these conditions.

Propolis consumption helps regulate blood sugar levels and helps reduce the damage caused by oxidative stress on many organs. That is because propolis contains many antioxidants, including vitamin C. These antioxidants eliminate free radicals from the body and significantly reduce the oxidative stress caused by them. It, in turn, protects the organs from damage. In addition, it can also prevent many chronic disorders like diabetes.

A study demonstrated the positive effect of propolis consumption on diabetes. It shows that consuming propolis for 90 days decreased blood sugar levels and increased insulin levels. Insulin is a hormone produced by our body to bring down blood glucose levels. Unfortunately, many people who have diabetes cannot regulate insulin production. Therefore, the consumption of propolis daily can prove beneficial for them.

Propolis reduces the absorption of glucose and other carbohydrates in the intestines. As a result, it prevents any glucose spikes in the blood. Thus, it can be beneficial for people with diabetes and hyperglycemia. Additionally, propolis increases glucose uptake from the blood to the organs. It simultaneously reduces blood glucose levels and provides the organs with nutrition and energy.

2. Improves Lung and Kidney Health

Propolis helps improve the functioning and health of the lungs. As mentioned before, propolis is a rich source of antioxidants. They prevent oxidative stress in many organs like the lungs. It also prevents cellular damage and inflammation in the lungs. Propolis also decreases the number of inflammatory cells in the lungs’ alveoli. One study demonstrated propolis’ positive effect against cigarette smoke and any lung diseases caused by it.

Propolis has a similar mechanism towards the kidneys. It helps prevent oxidative stress and inflammation in the kidney. A study suggests that it helps prevent chronic kidney diseases. In addition, the flavonoid chrysin in propolis helps reduce renal injuries in the kidney and protects the structures of the kidney from harm.

Propolis also helps protect podocytes, the kidney cells, from cell death. Sometimes, when glucose is too high in the blood, the kidney cells cannot filter it. Instead, they get harmed and may die due to it.

3. Helps Improve Heart Health

According to the University of Plymouth research, propolis helps reduce blood pressure. That is because propolis can increase the population of healthy microbes in our mouths. These microbes help convert nitrates from our food into nitrite. Nitrite is a compound that can widen our blood vessels, giving more space for the blood to flow, thus lowering blood pressure. Therefore, propolis is helpful for people suffering from hypertension for high blood pressure.

Propolis also helps lower cholesterol levels in the body. Lower blood pressure and lower cholesterol can lead to a healthier heart. In addition, it can prevent chronic heart disease like atherosclerosis, congenital heart disease, coronary artery disease, etc.

4. Propolis Regulates Cholesterol Levels

Propolis contains many antioxidants, which help reduce oxidative stress to the organs like kidneys, liver, and skin. Antioxidants can also limit the amount of unhealthy cholesterol like LDL cholesterol present in the body.

A study proves that propolis extracts can reduce LDL cholesterol levels and increase HDL cholesterol levels. They can prevent the accumulation of cholesterol and plaque formation in the arteries. As a result, it helps prevent many heart-related diseases like atherosclerosis, hypertension and even heart attacks. Therefore, propolis can be considered a cardiovascular protector. Its regular consumption helps protect the body from many types of serious diseases.

5. Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Propolis shows anti-inflammatory effects in the body. Prolonged inflammation can cause many chronic diseases. For example, inflammation can cause diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis. This property also helps in wound healing. Therefore, by taking propolis, you can reduce inflammation in the body.

The flavonoids in propolis can regulate the enzymes needed to cause inflammation. They reduce the production of these enzymes and factors, thus reducing inflammation. Another way propolis stops the production of nitric oxide and cytokinin from macrophages, a type of immune cell. Macrophages cause inflammation in the body. Therefore, by reducing the effectiveness of macrophages, propolis reduces inflammation in the body.

There are commercial propolis nasal sprays available. These sprays reduce the inflammation in the sinuses. In addition, they can relieve some of the symptoms of a common cold or infection.

6. Wound Healing Properties

Propolis helps in wound healing. The antioxidants like polyphenols present in propolis help reduce the damage caused by free radicals. As a result, it prevents cellular damage in many organs and tissues. This property can also promote and speed up wound healing. For example, many cold sore ointments containing 3% propolis heal the sores and prevent future painful breakouts.

A study suggests the use of propolis for healing burns. Propolis contains many bioactive compounds which help in cell proliferation. In other words, it increases cell growth and tissue formation. It can speed up wound healing.

Another way propolis can speed up wound healing is due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is an immune response to injuries and infections. However, it can also slow down recovery and agitate wounds. By reducing inflammation, the body can heal wounds better.

Furthermore, the anti-microbial properties of propolis promote wound healing as well. Microbes like bacteria and fungi cause most infections. Therefore, reducing their population on the wounds can help speed up their recovery.

7. Anti-Microbial Properties

Propolis is known for its anti-microbial properties. It includes antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and antiprotozoal properties. One study demonstrated the effectiveness of propolis against bacteria like Streptococci species, Staphylococci species, E. coli, and Heliobacter pylori. These bacteria cause various diseases, from skin infections to gut-related infections. Specifically, Heliobacter pylori can cause stomach infections and stomach ulcers.

The antibacterial properties of propolis are due to bioactive compounds like flavonoids. For example, a flavonoid called pinocembrin may stop the formation of genetic material in the bacteria and interfere with their energy. As a result, it can stop their growth and reproduction.

Furthermore, they also show antiviral effects against the Herpes virus, HIV, influenza virus, and COVID-19 virus. Flavonoids like chrysin reduce the proliferation or production of viruses in the body.

8. Effectiveness against COVID-19

Recently, to find a solution for COVID-19 disease, propolis was used. COVID-19 is a SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes infection in the respiratory tract and lungs. COVID-19 infection has changed the fabric of our world and has proved to be fatal. When conventional medications proved to be infective for some patients, some countries turned to traditional medicines like propolis, effective against many ailments.

Phytochemicals present in propolis stop the working and spread of coronavirus in the body. Propolis can interfere with the spread of coronavirus. Furthermore, patients suffering from COVID-19 synthesise PKA-1, a compound that promotes inflammation in the body. The bioactive compounds in propolis can block PKA-1 formation and prevent inflammation in these patients.

Research suggests how after 19 patients suffering from COVID-19 were given propolis, they showed lesser symptoms and recovered earlier. The detailed mechanism of how propolis works against COVID-19 is still unclear. However, it shows potential against COVID-19 infection.

Potential Side Effects of Propolis

Propolis may cause allergic reactions in people who are allergic to bee products. Therefore, it is crucial to be aware of your allergens. Excessive consumption of propolis may also irritate the mouth and create mouth ulcers. Additionally, certain chemical compounds in propolis may slow down blood clotting. Therefore, people who have just undergone surgery or have bleeding conditions should refrain from using it. Also, it would help if you talked to a physician before taking propolis.

Best Ways to Use Propolis

The recommended daily intake amount of propolis is 400 to 500 mg. You may take propolis by mouth after diluting it with water or as an oral supplement. Also, propolis is in many creams, ointments, mouthwashes, and cosmetics.

The Conclusion

Propolis is a natural resin made by bees. Propolis is high in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and bioactive compounds. In addition, propolis shows anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in the body. As a result, it can lead to better heart, lungs, kidney health. Also, it may lower our blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which can prevent many chronic diseases. Recently, propolis has shown potential against the COVID-19 infection. However, more research is vital to determine its mechanism and effectiveness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Does propolis have carbs?

A: No, propolis doesn’t contain carbohydrates. It is a natural resin that contains wax, essential oils, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and bioactive compounds.

2. What foods have propolis?

A: Propolis is a glue that bees make for their hives. You cannot find it anywhere else naturally. Propolis tablets and powders are available as a supplement.

3. What is propolis good for?

A: Propolis is suitable for several things. Including alleviating COVID-19 symptoms, improving kidney and lung health, regulating blood sugar and cholesterol. These are due to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of propolis.

4. Can propolis cure Covid?

A: There isn’t any evidence that suggests propolis may cure COVID-19. However, it may be used as a natural supplement to relieve some symptoms. The phytochemicals and flavonoids present in propolis may reduce the inflammation in the lungs and have antiviral effects.

5. Is propolis good for high blood pressure?

A: Yes, propolis may lower blood pressure in patients suffering from hypertension or high blood pressure. Propolis helps increase the levels of nitrite in the body. Nitrite can widen our blood vessels, which helps in lowering blood pressure.

6. Is propolis good for kidneys?

A: Yes, propolis is good for kidney health. The antioxidants present in propolis may reduce oxidative stress on the kidneys. Also, it can reduce inflammation in kidney cells. All of this leads to better kidney functioning and health.

7. Does propolis lower blood sugar?

A: Yes, some evidence suggests that propolis reduces blood sugar in patients with hypertension or diabetes. The bioactive compounds in propolis may reduce sugar absorption by the intestines. Also, it can increase insulin production in the body, which naturally lowers blood sugar levels.

8. Is propolis good for the stomach?

A: Yes, propolis are good for stomach health. Propolis have flavonoid, which shows antibacterial properties. They can reduce the population of bacteria which may cause stomach infections. For example, bacteria like Heliobacter pylori can cause stomach infections and ulcers.

9. Is propolis good for sinuses?

A: Yes, propolis is good for sinuses due to its anti-inflammatory properties. They can reduce the inflammation in the sinuses, which can relieve some of the symptoms of a sinus infection or common cold. Also, since they are antibacterial, they can kill the bacteria causing disease in the first place.

10. Is propolis good for the lungs?

A: Yes, propolis is good for the lungs. They prevent oxidative stress and cellular damage to the lungs. Also, they may reduce the inflammation in the lungs caused by many infections and disorders. In addition, a study suggests that they can reduce the effects of cigarette smoke on the lungs.

11. Is propolis an antibiotic?

A: Propolis may be considered a natural antibiotic. In other words, it has antibacterial properties towards bacteria like Heliobacter pylori, E. coli, Streptococcus species, Staphylococcus species, etc. These bacteria usually cause skin infections, and much more.

12. Is propolis good for sore throat?

A: Yes, propolis is suitable for a sore throat. Propolis has been traditionally used to relieve the symptoms of common cold and sore throat. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. In addition, it reduces inflammation in the throat, which can relieve pain and irritation. Also, it can help heal the sore throat.

13. Can propolis reduce cholesterol?

A: Yes, propolis may reduce the cholesterol level in the blood. It can lower the unhealthy cholesterol or LDL cholesterol levels and increase HDL cholesterol in the blood. It is due to the many antioxidants present in it.

14. Does propolis help constipation?

A: No evidence suggests propolis may have any effect on constipation. However, traditionally it may have been used as a laxative. Further research is essential to figure out its mechanism.

15. Can you take propolis every day?

A: Yes, you can take propolis every day. The recommended daily intake amount of propolis is 400 to 500 mg.

16. What are the side effects of propolis?

A: Excessive consumption of propolis may lead to mouth ulcers. Also, people who are allergic to bee products might develop allergic symptoms after taking propolis. Therefore, it is recommended to know your allergens and consult a physician for propolis.

17. What is the best way to take propolis?

A: There are many ways to make propolis. For example, they are available as oral supplements, powders and mouthwash. They are also present in ointments and creams.

18. Can people with diabetes take bee propolis?

A: Yes, people with diabetes can take propolis. Propolis are known to regulate and lower blood sugar levels. Also, it prevents oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. Therefore, it can help patients with diabetes.

What’s The Deal with Propolis?

About 5 years ago I sat down for coffee with a new friend in Toronto and my mind was blown by the incredible world of bees…yes bees. Those buzzing creatures that people either consider a nuisance or have a deep understanding of their massive impact on the survival of our food system. NO BIG DEAL. That new friend was Carly Stein, the founder of Beekeeper’s Naturals, an innovative bee product company helping to transform traditional medicine cabinets using the superpowers of bees. Carly’s story is powerful (you can listen to her interview on the podcast here) and all the products in her collection are too. But one has really stuck with me over the past 5 years and to be honest, you’ll rarely find me without it. That product is propolis which prior to meeting Carly I knew nothing about.

Propolis has become one of my tools to tackling seasonal allergies, sore throats, colds and the flu. But what the heck is it? What does it actually do? And why am I obsessed with it? Today I thought I’d share more about the super product that is propolis and why it’s become a staple in my home (and purse!). Let’s get into it…

What is propolis?

Propolis is the combination of sap, beeswax and bee discharge. Super sexy, right? The end product is a sticky, waxy substance that bees use to build and repair their hives. Turns out humans can benefit from this healing substance… and they have been for years. Ancient civilizations would use propolis for its medicinal properties.

What are the benefits of propolis?

Besides having the ability to build and repair bee hives, propolis has over 300 polyphenols which are antioxidants that fight disease and damage in the body. Propolis has antibacterial, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties. (Source) You really can’t go wrong with this powerhouse defender! Here are some reasons why you might want to use propolis:

Oral:

To prevent or heal from a sore throat

To boost your immune system if you’re getting sick

To help fight seasonal allergies

Topical:

To help heal scrapes or open wounds

To help reduce acne scarring

To help reduce length of cold sores

How to Use Propolis

You can use propolis topically or orally. I always start taking propolis throat spray the second I feel allergies or any type of sickness come on but after doing the full research for this blog, I might start using as a daily preventive supplement! I generally start taking a few sprays several times a day of beekeeper’s naturals when I feel a sore throat or allergies coming on.

You can also use propolis topically on cuts, scrapes, wounds, burns, cold sores, acne… it really is a super product. Spray directly on scrapes, burns or skin irritation. As with all skin products, I recommend spot testing before spraying on your entire body. Safety first!

Where can you buy Propolis?

Most health food stores carry propolis though in full transparency, not all propolis is made the same. Not only will this affect the quality, but it will also affect the taste. I remember purchasing an oral propolis when I was travelling because I forgot my beekeeper’s naturals at home. I picked some up at a local health food store and the taste was just awful. They basically diluted propolis in alcohol so it tasted more like if you drank a bottle of vanilla extract than the sweet taste of beekeeper’s naturals.

One of the many reasons I love beekeeper’s naturals is because it is diluted in non-GMO vegetable glycerin rather than alcohol. This makes the taste SO much better and in addition to water it keeps their product super simple without any nonessential additives. I order mine online in a week 4 pack which usually lasts most of the year for me. They’re also big on sustainability, only working with beekeepers’ who don’t overharvest, and third party test all of their products to ensure their products are pesticide-free.

You guys know I’m not big on too many “wellnessy” products and try to keep my life pretty minimal but if I had to tell you to buy one product for your alternative medicine cabinet, it would be this. I also love supporting a female-run company (and Canadian too!). I hope this helps next time you hear someone talking about propolis or you feel that sore throat coming on. We swear by it around here.

Beekeeper’s Naturals Propolis Discount Code

To save 15% off your next order of Beekeeper’s Naturals products use code MAVEN at checkout!

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Disclaimer: Although propolis has been around for decades, studies surrounding this product are still fairly new. Because it is considered a supplement, check in with your doctor before adding to your routine. If you are allergic to bees or honey, you may also be allergic to propolis so please avoid if you have a bee allergy.

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