Propolis: Application and Ingredients

Depending on the season and the region in which the bees collect their “putty resin”, the composition and thus the effectiveness changes. Because of this fluctuating efficacy, propolis is only suitable for use as a medicine to a limited extent, because the Medicines Act prescribes standardization of the composition of active ingredients. It is sold as a cosmetic or dietary supplement.

Flavonoids: vascular strengthening, antiviral, antioxidant.

Between 150 and 200 ingredients have been identified in propolis to date. These include chemical elements such as zinc, iron, silicon, copper, vitamins, oils with fungicidal activity and, most importantly, flavonoids. These water-soluble plant pigments have, for example, a vascular strengthening effect, help against inflammation and have an antiviral effect. More and more research is being done on the antioxidant effects of flavonoids: many studies support their anticancer effects.

Extraction of propolis

Beekeepers extract propolis by placing a plastic grid in the bees’ hive. When the bees have sealed the holes with propolis, the grids are removed and placed in the freezer, frozen and then ground. They then dissolve it in 60 to 70 percent alcohol, obtaining about 300 grams of propolis per liter. At 15°C propolis is brittle and hard, at 30°C it becomes pliable, above that it becomes sticky and very soft. At 65°C and above, it becomes liquid, but only melts completely at over 100°C.

Propolis: use for a variety of ailments

Propolis is used as a homeopathic for non-purulent inflammation of the mucous membranes, such as inflammation of the gums and throat, and for various skin diseases. It is said to strengthen the body’s defenses, harmonize digestion when taken regularly. Propolis helps with inflammations of the mouth and throat as an additive in mouthwash and toothpaste, it soothes injuries and burns, acne, neurodermatitis, ulcers and warts. It supports the treatment of athlete’s foot, is effective against fatigue and rheumatic complaints.

Propolis is light yellow through brown to black. Its taste is bitter and pungent, the smell is usually sweetish, but varies depending on the origin. Propolis is available as drops, granules or powder to take, five to ten drops in a glass of water once a day as a dosage. There are also propolis ointment, chewable candies, suppositories, propolis cream, capsules and other dosage forms. Some people are allergic to propolis – skin irritation or blisters may occur, for example, on contact with ointments.