Propolis

Description

Propolis is a complex resinous substance collected by honey bees from various plant sources, including tree buds, sap, and other botanical materials. Bees use propolis to seal gaps and cracks in their hives, reinforce honeycomb, and protect the hive from external threats and infections due to its antimicrobial properties. Its composition varies depending on the geographic location and the flora available to the bees, but it typically contains resins, waxes, essential oils, pollen, and a rich array of flavonoids and phenolic compounds. Historically, propolis has been utilized in traditional medicine for centuries across different cultures, including ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans, who recognized its healing attributes. Modern scientific research has begun to unravel the diverse bioactivities of propolis, attributing many of its benefits to its high concentration of polyphenols, particularly flavonoids, which act as powerful antioxidants. These compounds contribute to its observed antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory effects. Due to its broad spectrum of biological activities, propolis is commonly found in health supplements, topical preparations, and oral care products. It is often sought after for its potential to support immune function, promote wound healing, alleviate inflammation, and maintain oral hygiene. Its versatility and natural origin make it a popular ingredient in the wellness industry, though consistent quality and composition can vary between products.

Sources
Honey bees (produced by bees from various tree resins and botanical sources)Poplar tree buds and sapConifer tree sap and barkBirch tree buds and barkOak tree buds
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Timing & Intake
Anytime
Propolis can be taken with or without food, depending on individual preference and product formulation.
Optimal Dosage
Minimum400 mg
Maximum1000 mg
Safety & Toxicity
Product stats
Price per product
Average$24.09
Median$15.86
Price per serving
Average$0.66
Median$0.37
Price per 100 mg
Average$0.14
Median$0.08
Price distribution
Price per serving distribution
Price per 100 mg
Reference amount: 100 mg
Forms
Paired ingredients
Ingredient forms
Baccharis dracunculifolia (2)85
This plant is crucial for producing Brazilian Green Propolis, a specific type known for its potent biological activities. It contains distinct compounds such as artepillin C and other prenylated p-coumaric acids, which contribute significantly to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects. Its unique profile makes it highly regarded in various health applications.
Pros
  • Rich in specific bioactive compounds like artepillin C
  • Strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
  • Well-researched for immunity and cellular health
Cons
  • Availability can be limited compared to general propolis
  • Cost may be higher due to specific sourcing
Per product
Avg$68.96
Med$68.96
Per serving
Avg$2.99
Med$2.99
Per 10 mg
Avg$0.34
Med$0.34
Price distribution
Caffeic Acid (1)65
Caffeic acid is a naturally occurring phenolic acid present in many types of propolis. It is known for its antioxidant capacity, helping to neutralize free radicals, and also exhibits mild anti-inflammatory properties. It serves as a precursor to more complex propolis compounds like CAPE.
Pros
  • Exhibits antioxidant activity
  • Contributes to anti-inflammatory effects
  • Common and well-studied plant compound
Cons
  • Less potent individually than more complex propolis derivatives
  • Not unique to propolis, found in many plants
Per product
Avg$32.98
Med$32.98
Per serving
Avg$0.54
Med$0.54
Per 100 mg
Avg$0.11
Med$0.11
Price distribution
CAPE (1)90
CAPE is a derivative of caffeic acid and is considered one of the key active compounds in many types of propolis, particularly European propolis. It exhibits strong anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting various inflammatory pathways and also possesses significant antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties. Its comprehensive bioactivity makes it a focus of extensive research.
Pros
  • Very potent anti-inflammatory agent
  • Strong antioxidant capabilities
  • Modulates immune responses effectively
Cons
  • Can be challenging to isolate and stabilize
  • Concentration varies significantly between propolis sources
Per product
Avg$32.98
Med$32.98
Per serving
Avg$0.54
Med$0.54
Per 100 mg
Avg$0.11
Med$0.11
Price distribution
Chrysin (1)70
Chrysin is a naturally occurring flavonoid present in propolis, contributing to its overall beneficial profile. It acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells from oxidative damage, and also exhibits mild anti-inflammatory effects. Research suggests potential roles in various biological processes, often working synergistically with other propolis compounds.
Pros
  • Acts as an antioxidant
  • Possesses anti-inflammatory properties
  • Found in various natural sources, including propolis
Cons
  • Bioavailability can be a concern
  • Less prominent in some propolis types compared to others
Per product
Avg$32.98
Med$32.98
Per serving
Avg$0.54
Med$0.54
Per 100 mg
Avg$0.11
Med$0.11
Price distribution
Cinnamic Acid (1)55
Cinnamic acid is a less abundant but present phenolic acid in propolis. While primarily recognized for its aromatic qualities, it also possesses mild antioxidant activity, contributing to the overall protective effects of propolis. It can serve as a precursor for the synthesis of other more potent bioactive compounds within the propolis matrix.
Pros
  • Contributes to antioxidant activity
  • Natural compound found in various plants
Cons
  • Relatively minor contributor to propolis's main therapeutic effects compared to others
  • Less potent individually
Per product
Avg$32.98
Med$32.98
Per serving
Avg$0.54
Med$0.54
Per 100 mg
Avg$0.11
Med$0.11
Price distribution
Ferulic Acid (1)75
Ferulic acid is a potent antioxidant widely present in propolis, enhancing its ability to combat free radicals. It is particularly valued for its capacity to protect cells from UV-induced damage and contribute to overall cellular health. Its presence in propolis adds to the substance's broad spectrum of beneficial properties, especially for skin protection.
Pros
  • Strong antioxidant properties
  • Offers photoprotective benefits
  • Synergizes with other antioxidants
Cons
  • Not exclusive to propolis, found in many plant sources
  • Bioavailability can be variable
Per product
Avg$32.98
Med$32.98
Per serving
Avg$0.54
Med$0.54
Per 100 mg
Avg$0.11
Med$0.11
Price distribution
Flavonoids (1)88
Flavonoids represent a diverse group of plant metabolites that are major active constituents of propolis. This class includes compounds like galangin, pinocembrin, and chrysin, which collectively provide significant antioxidant protection, help reduce inflammation, and modulate immune responses. Their synergistic action is fundamental to the therapeutic efficacy of propolis.
Pros
  • Major contributors to propolis's biological activity
  • Broad spectrum of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory benefits
  • Work synergistically for enhanced effects
Cons
  • Specific effects vary greatly depending on the individual flavonoid
  • General term, requiring specific flavonoid identification for precise action
Per product
Avg$32.98
Med$32.98
Per serving
Avg$0.54
Med$0.54
Per 100 mg
Avg$0.11
Med$0.11
Price distribution
Galangin (1)75
Galangin is one of the most significant flavonoids present in various types of propolis. It contributes to propolis's strong antioxidant capacity, protecting cells from oxidative stress. Additionally, it exhibits anti-inflammatory effects and has been studied for its antimicrobial properties, contributing to the broader protective benefits of propolis.
Pros
  • Strong antioxidant properties
  • Exhibits anti-inflammatory effects
  • Contributes to antimicrobial activity
Cons
  • Bioavailability can vary
  • Less prominent than CAPE in some propolis types
Per product
Avg$32.98
Med$32.98
Per serving
Avg$0.54
Med$0.54
Per 100 mg
Avg$0.11
Med$0.11
Price distribution
Pinocembrin (1)78
Pinocembrin is a highly active flavonoid found in propolis, contributing significantly to its health benefits. It is a powerful antioxidant, protecting against oxidative damage, and also possesses notable anti-inflammatory properties. Beyond these, it has been investigated for neuroprotective and antimicrobial activities, making it a versatile component of propolis.
Pros
  • Potent antioxidant properties
  • Exhibits significant anti-inflammatory effects
  • Contributes to broad protective effects
Cons
  • Concentration varies by propolis source
  • Research still evolving on its full potential
Per product
Avg$32.98
Med$32.98
Per serving
Avg$0.54
Med$0.54
Per 100 mg
Avg$0.11
Med$0.11
Price distribution
Tecto-Chrysin (1)60
Tecto-chrysin is a less common but still present flavonoid found in certain types of propolis. As a methylated derivative of chrysin, it contributes to the overall antioxidant capacity of propolis and may exert anti-inflammatory effects. Its specific biological activities are still under investigation, but it adds to the complexity and diversity of propolis's active compounds.
Pros
  • Exhibits antioxidant properties
  • Potential anti-inflammatory effects
Cons
  • Less extensively studied compared to other propolis constituents
  • Concentration is often lower than major flavonoids
Per product
Avg$32.98
Med$32.98
Per serving
Avg$0.54
Med$0.54
Per 100 mg
Avg$0.11
Med$0.11
Price distribution