Propolis Use During Pregnancy: A Natural Remedy's Safety Profile

Propolis is a resin-like material made by bees from the buds of poplar and cone-bearing trees. It is used to build hives and may contain beehive byproducts. Propolis is said to have antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties, and it is used to treat a variety of conditions, including diabetes, cold sores, and mouth sores. However, there is limited research on the effects of propolis on pregnant women, and it is recommended to avoid its use during pregnancy as a precaution, especially for those with allergies to pollen or bee products. While some studies suggest potential benefits, such as improved pregnancy outcomes and reduced oxidative stress in diabetic rats, further research is needed to confirm the safety and effectiveness of propolis during pregnancy.

Propolis is possibly safe when taken by mouth or applied to the skin, but there is limited research on its effects during pregnancy

Propolis is a resin-like material made by bees from the buds of poplar and cone-bearing trees. It is used to build hives and may contain beehive byproducts. Propolis is rarely available in its pure form and is usually obtained from beehives.

Propolis lozenges can cause irritation and mouth ulcers. It is also important to note that propolis might slow blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgery. Therefore, it is recommended to stop taking propolis at least two weeks before surgery.

Propolis may help with diabetes by improving blood sugar control

Propolis is a resinous substance collected by honeybees from various plant sources. It has been used in traditional medicine for centuries and is known to possess a wide range of biological activities, including hypoglycemic effects.

Several studies have investigated the effects of propolis on blood glucose control and insulin sensitivity in animal models and humans with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Here is a summary of the key findings:

Animal Studies

• Propolis extracts have been shown to reduce blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity in diabetic rats.
• Propolis supplementation in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats resulted in a significant decrease in blood glucose levels.
• Encapsulated propolis was found to inhibit the increase in fasting blood glucose and triglyceride levels in T2DM rats, while improving insulin sensitivity.
• Propolis extracts reduced blood glucose levels and modulated lipid metabolism in rats with diabetes mellitus.

Human Studies

• A randomized controlled trial involving individuals with T2DM found that propolis supplementation significantly decreased fasting blood sugar and improved long-term blood sugar control (measured by hemoglobin A1c).
• Another randomized controlled trial in patients with T2DM showed that propolis supplementation reduced postprandial blood glucose, serum insulin, and insulin resistance. It also increased HDL-cholesterol levels.

Overall, the available evidence suggests that propolis may help with diabetes by improving blood sugar control and modulating lipid metabolism. However, more human studies are needed to confirm these effects and determine the optimal dosage for therapeutic benefits.

Propolis may help with cold sores when applied as an ointment or cream

Propolis is a resin-like material made by bees from the buds of poplar and cone-bearing trees. It is used by bees to build hives and may contain beehive byproducts. Propolis is thought to have antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is available in the form of ointments, creams, gels, and mouth rinses.

A 2001 study found that a topical cream made of rhubarb and sage was as effective in treating cold sores as the antiviral medication acyclovir. Another study found that when topical propolis was applied three times a day, it helped to heal cold sores faster than no treatment. Propolis was found to reduce the amount of the herpes virus present in the body and protect the body against future cold sore breakouts.

Propolis is available in a 3% concentration for human use. To treat cold sores, apply an ointment, cream, or gel containing 0.5% to 3% of propolis five times daily.

Propolis may help with sores inside the mouth when taken by mouth or used as a mouth rinse

Propolis is a resinous substance made by bees from the buds of poplar and cone-bearing trees. It is used to build beehives and embalm dead invaders. Propolis is available in many forms, including mouthwash, which is used to treat sores inside the mouth caused by cancer drugs.

Propolis mouthwash is a natural alternative to chemical mouthwashes, such as chlorhexidine. It is also marginally better than chlorhexidine in improving gingival scores.

A study on the effect of bee propolis on recurrent aphthous stomatitis showed that propolis was effective in decreasing the number of recurrences and improving the quality of life in patients who suffer from RAS.

A 2015 review suggests that propolis may aid wound healing. An animal study in rats with diabetes showed that propolis helped the skin grow new cells in order to repair itself.

Propolis is available in many forms, including mouthwash, which is used to treat sores inside the mouth caused by cancer drugs.

Propolis mouthwash is a natural alternative to chemical mouthwashes, such as chlorhexidine. It is also marginally better than chlorhexidine in improving gingival scores.

A study on the effect of bee propolis on recurrent aphthous stomatitis showed that propolis was effective in decreasing the number of recurrences and improving the quality of life in patients who suffer from RAS.

Propolis may cause allergic reactions, especially in people allergic to bee products

Propolis is a resin-like material made by bees from the buds of poplar and cone-bearing trees. Bees use it to build hives, and it may contain beehive byproducts.

Propolis is possibly safe when used appropriately. However, it can cause allergic reactions, especially in people who are allergic to bee products. People with allergies to pollen or bee products should avoid propolis altogether.

Lozenges containing propolis can cause irritation and mouth ulcers.

Frequently asked questions