What Things Contain Propolis and Where to Find It

November 6, 2025 •

4 min read

Over 300 bioactive compounds, including polyphenols and flavonoids, have been identified in propolis, making it a highly sought-after ingredient in a variety of products. This powerful bee-produced substance is utilized across different industries for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.

Quick Summary

Propolis is used in numerous products, including dietary supplements, skincare items like serums and moisturizers, and oral hygiene products such as toothpaste and mouthwash. It is also found in some food items, medical ointments, and traditional remedies due to its potent properties.

Key Points

Immune-Supporting Supplements: Propolis is commonly found in capsules, tablets, and liquid tinctures designed to bolster the immune system and provide antioxidant benefits.
Oral Hygiene Solutions: Many oral care products, including special toothpastes, mouthwashes, and throat sprays, contain propolis for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects against plaque and mouth infections.
Topical Skincare Treatments: Propolis's ability to soothe and heal makes it an active ingredient in creams, serums, and ointments for acne, burns, and minor skin irritations.
Food and Beverages: Trace amounts of propolis can be found in raw honey and honeycomb, while extracts are added to some candies and functional beverages for their preservative and health properties.
Source Varies Globally: The chemical composition and specific benefits of propolis can differ significantly based on the botanical sources available to bees, such as poplar in Europe or specific shrubs in Brazil.
A Cautionary Note: People with allergies to bees, honey, or tree resins should exercise caution, as propolis can cause allergic reactions in some individuals.

What is Propolis?

Propolis, often called 'bee glue,' is a resinous mixture that honey bees produce by combining their saliva and beeswax with exudates from tree buds, sap flows, and other plant sources. Bees use it to seal cracks in their hives, reinforce structures, and protect the colony from pathogens, thanks to its potent antimicrobial properties. Its composition is highly variable, depending on the botanical sources available to the bees in a specific region, which can result in different colors and chemical makeup.

Diverse Sources of Propolis

While the primary source is plant resin, the exact origin can differ globally. In temperate zones like Europe and North America, bees often collect resins from poplar and conifer trees. In Brazil, a green-colored propolis is sourced mainly from Baccharis dracunculifolia, while Cuban red propolis comes from Clusia rosea flowers. This diversity in plant origin contributes to the varying chemical profiles and biological activities of propolis worldwide.

Where You Can Find Products Containing Propolis

Propolis's versatility and beneficial properties have led to its inclusion in a wide array of commercial products. From health supplements to cosmetic and dental items, the market for propolis-based goods is extensive.

Dietary Supplements

Propolis is widely available in oral supplement form, catering to those who want to harness its internal benefits. These supplements are often marketed to support immune function and provide antioxidant support.

Capsules and tablets: These offer a convenient, measured dose of concentrated propolis extract.
Tinctures and liquid extracts: Often diluted in water or alcohol, these can be added to beverages or taken directly.
Lozenges and syrups: Popular for soothing sore throats and supporting respiratory health.

Oral Care Products

Thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, propolis is a valued ingredient in oral hygiene products.

Toothpaste and toothgel: Used to help combat plaque buildup and reduce inflammation of the gums.
Mouthwashes and sprays: Can help fight bad breath and provide antiseptic action for mouth and throat infections.

Skincare and Topical Treatments

Propolis's wound-healing and antimicrobial properties make it a beneficial component of topical applications for skin health.

Serums and creams: Used to calm and purify the skin, particularly for those with acne.
Ointments and salves: Applied to minor wounds, burns, and cold sores to accelerate healing and prevent infection.
Lip balms: Help to soothe and protect chapped lips.

Food and Beverages

In some cultures, propolis is incorporated into food for preservation or flavor.

Raw honey and honeycomb: Unfiltered honey or honeycomb may contain trace amounts of natural propolis.
Functional foods: Some sweets, candies, and fruit juices may be enhanced with propolis extract.

Other Specialty Products

Propolis finds its way into other niche markets as well.

Musical instrument varnish: Historically, some instrument makers, like violin makers, used propolis as an ingredient in their varnishes.
Pet products: Some animal health products incorporate propolis for its healing properties.

Table: Comparison of Propolis Products


Product Type	Primary Function	Typical Formulations	Key Benefits	Target Concerns
Dietary Supplements	Internal Health Support	Capsules, Tablets, Tinctures	Immune support, Antioxidant boost	Colds, Sore throats, General wellness
Oral Care	Dental and Gum Health	Toothpaste, Mouthwash, Gels	Anti-plaque, Anti-inflammatory, Antibacterial	Gingivitis, Plaque, Oral hygiene
Skincare	Topical Healing and Purity	Serums, Creams, Balms	Anti-acne, Wound healing, Anti-aging	Acne, Minor wounds, Cold sores
Food & Confectionery	Additive and Preservation	Candies, Juices, Raw Honey	Antioxidant, Anti-microbial, Flavoring	Food spoilage, General health
Pet Products	Animal Health	Ointments, Sprays	Healing, Antiseptic	Minor cuts, Skin irritations

Considerations When Choosing a Propolis Product

When exploring products that contain propolis, it's important to consider a few factors. The composition can vary based on geographic origin and the specific plant sources, which can alter its properties. Standardized extracts are more consistent in their flavonoid content. Allergic reactions can occur, especially in individuals with sensitivities to bee products, so it is advisable to test a small amount first. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, particularly for those with bleeding disorders or asthma.

Conclusion

Propolis is a remarkable natural substance, harvested by bees and utilized extensively in human products. Its wide-ranging benefits, from supporting immune health to aiding skin and dental care, stem from its complex mix of natural compounds. Whether in a daily supplement, a soothing throat lozenge, or an innovative skincare formula, propolis continues to be a popular and effective ingredient. The diverse forms in which it is available ensure that consumers can find a product suited to their specific needs, though awareness of potential sensitivities is always recommended.

Learn more about the science behind propolis in this review from the National Institutes of Health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Raw propolis contains beeswax and impurities, which makes it harder for the human body to digest. For this reason, it is typically processed and diluted into extracts or other forms before it is consumed or used in products.

No, the properties of propolis can vary considerably depending on the geographical location and the specific trees and plants from which the bees collect resin. This leads to different colors, chemical profiles, and biological activities across different types of propolis.

Propolis is generally considered safe for most people. However, individuals with allergies to bees, honey, or other bee products should use it with caution, as it can cause an allergic reaction. It's best to consult a healthcare provider before use, especially for pregnant individuals, children under 2, or those with asthma or bleeding disorders.

While not a common food ingredient, propolis is sometimes added to foods like candies, chewing gum, and certain juices for its properties. Raw, unprocessed honey is also more likely to contain trace amounts of natural propolis.

Propolis is used in dental products like toothpastes and mouthwashes for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps reduce plaque formation and can be beneficial for managing gingivitis.

In skincare, propolis is used for its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and healing properties. It is included in serums, creams, and ointments to help with acne, soothe irritation, and promote the healing of minor wounds.

Propolis is available in several supplement forms, including capsules, tablets, alcohol-based tinctures, and water-based liquid extracts. These forms offer different concentration levels and usage methods for consumers.