Propolis : Dosing and Safety

by MedlinePlus

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Dosing

The below doses are based on scientific research, publications, traditional use, or expert opinion. Many herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested, and safety and effectiveness may not be proven. Brands may be made differently, with variable ingredients, even within the same brand. The below doses may not apply to all products. You should read product labels, and discuss doses with a qualified healthcare provider before starting therapy.

Adults (18 years and older)

Acute cervicitis: 5% ointment/cream of propolis applied in the form of vaginal dressings daily for ten days has been studied.

Dental plaque: 10 milliliters of 0.2% to 10% propolis ethanol extract mouthwash has been used in studies, swished in the mouth for 60 to 90 seconds, then spit, used once or twice daily.

Genital herpes simplex virus infection: 3% propolis ointment (made from 75% to 85% concentrated propolis extract) applied topically four times daily for 10 days has been studied. In cases of cervical or vaginal lesions, the same amount of ointment has been applied to the tip of a tampon and inserted vaginally four times daily for 10 days. Safety and effectiveness have not been established.

Infections: Two 250 milligram propolis capsules taken by mouth, three times daily for three days has been used for treating bacteria in the urine. 20% to 30% propolis extract taken by mouth for five days has been studied for giardiasis (milligram dosing not clearly described). Safety and effectiveness have not been established.

Children (younger than 18 years)

Infections: 10% ethanol extract of propolis taken by mouth over five days has been studied for giardiasis (milligram dosing not established). Note that ethanol (alcohol) preparations should be used cautiously in children. Safety and effectiveness have not been established.

Rhinopharyingitis: 0.5 milliliter propolis nasal spray (Nivcrisol®), once weekly for five months has been used in preschool children (mean age 6 years) and school-age children (mean age 9 years), over a five-month period. Safety and effectiveness have not been established.

Safety

Allergies

Patients should avoid propolis who have had an allergic/hypersensitivity reaction to propolis, Populus nigra L. (black poplar), poplar bud, bee stings/bee products (including honey), or balsam of Peru. There are multiple reports of swelling, fluid collection, redness, burning, eczema, swelling, fever and other allergic reactions with repeated use of propolis on the skin.

Side Effects and Warnings

The safety of propolis has not been thoroughly studied. Although there are several case reports of allergic reactions to propolis, it is generally believed to be well tolerated in most adults. Case reports of irritation in and around the mouth have occurred after use of propolis lozenges or extract taken by mouth.

Toxicity data for propolis are limited. Preliminary animal studies have found propolis to be relatively non-toxic.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

There is not enough scientific evidence to recommend use of propolis during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Many tinctures contain high levels of alcohol, and should be avoided during pregnancy.

Interactions

Most herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested for interactions with other herbs, supplements, drugs, or foods. The interactions listed below are based on reports in scientific publications, laboratory experiments, or traditional use. You should always read product labels. I f you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy.

Interactions with Drugs

Many tinctures contain high levels of alcohol, and may cause nausea or vomiting when taken with metronidazole (Flagyl®) or disulfiram (Antabuse®).

Interactions with Herbs and Dietary Supplements

Balsam of Peru and propolis are both known to cause allergic sensitization in some people, and have multiple compounds in common, such as benzyl benzoate, benzyl cinnamate, benzyl alcohol, benzoic acid, cinnamic acid, caffeic acid, cinnamic alcohol, and vinallin. An increased risk of allergic sensitization may occur if both products are used together.

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