What is Propolis Raw? An Unprocessed Overview

December 21, 2025 •

3 min read

Propolis is a sticky, resinous substance used by bees for centuries to protect and seal their hives. Raw propolis is the pure, unprocessed form of this material, harvested directly from the hive before any purification or extraction processes are applied.

Quick Summary

An unprocessed resinous substance created by bees, raw propolis is a complex mixture of tree buds, wax, pollen, and oils with potent antimicrobial and antioxidant effects. Bees use it to seal their hives, while humans value its medicinal properties, requiring processing for safe consumption.

Key Points

Source: Raw propolis is a resinous substance collected by honeybees from tree buds and sap flows, then mixed with beeswax and enzymes.
Purpose: Bees use this "bee glue" to seal and protect their hive from microbial invaders and environmental threats.
Composition: Raw propolis is a complex mix primarily composed of resins (50%), waxes (30%), essential oils (10%), pollen (5%), and other compounds.
Processing: Due to its indigestible wax content, raw propolis must be processed, typically into an alcohol or water-based extract, before it can be safely consumed.
Benefits: The processed extracts are known for potential immune-supporting, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.
Safety: Although generally safe in its processed form, individuals with allergies to bees, bee products, or related plants should exercise caution.

The Raw Truth: What Exactly is Raw Propolis?

Raw propolis, often called "bee glue," is a resinous mixture honeybees collect from tree buds, sap flows, and other botanical sources. They combine this plant-based resin with their own beeswax and salivary enzymes to create a powerful sealant. The resulting substance is what the bees use to coat the inside of their hives, seal cracks, and defend against intruders and microbes. In its raw state, it is hard and brittle when cold but becomes sticky and malleable when warmed. The color can vary, ranging from yellow-green to dark brown, depending on its botanical origin. It is in this raw, uncleaned state that it contains the maximum concentration of its natural compounds before any processing occurs.

The Composition of Raw Propolis

Raw propolis is a complex substance, and its exact chemical makeup can vary depending on the geographical location of the hive and the available flora. However, a general composition consists of:

50% Resins: This is the primary component and is rich in flavonoids, phenolic acids, and other beneficial compounds.
30% Waxes: The presence of beeswax is what makes it difficult to digest in its raw form and requires purification before consumption.
10% Essential and Aromatic Oils: These volatile oils contribute to its distinct smell and therapeutic properties.
5% Pollen: Pollen grains are often present and can provide additional nutrients.
5% Other Organic Components: This can include vitamins, minerals, and other residues.

The Benefits and Uses of Raw Propolis

Despite needing processing for safe, internal use, the properties of raw propolis are the foundation for the benefits found in its refined products.

Potential benefits of propolis include:

Immune System Support: The antioxidants and bioactive compounds can support the body's natural defenses.
Antimicrobial Action: Propolis exhibits natural antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties.
Wound Healing: It has been traditionally used to promote the healing of minor cuts, burns, and wounds.
Oral Health: Its antiseptic qualities make it useful in combating plaque, gingivitis, and other mouth infections.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: Research suggests that certain compounds have anti-inflammatory properties.

Comparison: Raw Propolis vs. Processed Propolis


Feature	Raw Propolis	Processed Propolis (e.g., Tincture)
Composition	Unpurified mix of resin, wax, pollen, and other hive debris.	Active, concentrated compounds extracted using a solvent (e.g., alcohol, water).
Form	Solid, brittle chunks or residue scraped directly from the hive.	Liquid tincture, powder, capsules, or ointments.
Digestibility	Contains indigestible wax and impurities; can cause digestive upset if consumed in large quantities.	Purified for safe internal consumption; wax and other residues are removed.
Potency	Contains the full spectrum of compounds, but not easily absorbed by the body.	Active ingredients are concentrated and readily bioavailable, especially in alcohol-based tinctures.
Method of Use	Used as a raw material for DIY extraction; not suitable for direct, internal consumption.	Can be ingested directly as drops, mixed with honey, or applied topically.

How to Handle and Process Raw Propolis

Because of its waxy consistency and impurities, raw propolis is almost never consumed directly. Instead, it is used as the starting material for creating various extracts. The two most common extraction methods are alcohol and water-based, each yielding a product with a slightly different chemical profile.

Steps for DIY Alcohol Extraction:

Freeze and Grind: Freeze the raw propolis chunks until they become hard and brittle. This allows for easier grinding into a powder.
Soak in Alcohol: Add the ground propolis to a food-grade alcohol (at least 70% proof) in a glass jar, using a ratio of about 1 part propolis to 4 parts alcohol.
Macerate and Shake: Seal the jar and let it sit for 2-4 weeks, shaking daily to help dissolve the active components.
Filter and Store: Filter the liquid through a fine-mesh filter or coffee filter to remove the remaining solids. Store the finished tincture in a dark glass bottle in a cool place.

Conclusion

Raw propolis is a complex and potent bee product, valued for its rich concentration of antioxidant, antibacterial, and antiviral compounds. While its unprocessed form is not intended for direct consumption, it is the essential starting material for creating purified products like tinctures and ointments. Understanding what is propolis raw is the first step toward appreciating the intricate natural defense system of the beehive and the powerful remedies derived from it. Proper processing is key to safely unlocking the full spectrum of health benefits this amazing substance has to offer.

Optional Outbound Link

Learn more about the pharmacological properties of propolis from a comprehensive review published by the National Institutes of Health.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, it is not recommended to eat raw propolis directly. The raw form contains indigestible beeswax and impurities that can cause stomach upset. It should be processed and purified into an extract or tincture before consumption.

Raw propolis is the unprocessed substance harvested from the hive, containing wax and impurities. A propolis tincture is a purified liquid extract created by dissolving the active compounds of the raw material in a solvent like alcohol, which makes them bioavailable and safe to consume.

To make an extract, you first freeze and grind the raw propolis. Then, soak it in a high-proof food-grade alcohol for several weeks, shaking daily. Finally, filter the liquid to remove any solids, leaving behind a potent tincture.

Processed propolis has been traditionally used for its potential antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects. It may help with immune support, oral health, and minor wound healing.

Individuals with known allergies to bees, bee products like honey or pollen, or to certain trees (like poplars and conifers) should avoid using propolis. People with asthma and bleeding disorders should also be cautious, as some compounds may worsen these conditions.

Bees collect the resinous material for propolis from the buds and sap flows of various trees and plants, such as poplars, conifers, and birches. The specific flora available dictates the final composition and color.

To maintain its integrity and prevent it from becoming a sticky, unmanageable mess, raw propolis should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Freezing it can also make it easier to handle and grind for processing later.