Skip to main content
Evidence-Based Supplement Research
Evidence-Based Supplement Research
Pillser
Search
Sign UpLog In

Propolis

What does the research say about Propolis?

4 health outcomes synthesised

Propolis, a resinous substance produced by bees, has been studied across 4 health outcomes for its potential anti-inflammatory and oral health effects. The strongest evidence, supported by 3 peer-reviewed analyses, indicates a moderate-to-large benefit for reducing Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha (TNF-α), particularly in adults and patients with type 2 diabetes. Dose ranges and study durations remain inconsistently reported, limiting precise clinical guidance.

Strongest evidence: Outcomes with moderate evidence strength include reduced Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha (TNF-α) and reduced C-reactive protein (CRP). For TNF-α, all 3 studies (systematic reviews with meta-analyses) showed beneficial effects with effect sizes ranging from small to large (e.g., mean difference of -1.15 pg/mL; standardized mean difference of -1.42). For CRP, all 3 studies reported significant reductions, with the most robust meta-analysis (12 RCTs, 731 participants with type 2 diabetes) finding a moderate mean difference of -2.68 (95% CI: -3.48 to -1.89). Doses were not consistently reported in either outcome.

Mixed or weaker evidence: For reduced interleukin-6 (IL-6), evidence strength is low: 2 of 4 studies found beneficial effects, while 2 found no significant effect, resulting in mixed effect sizes. Improved clinical attachment (periodontal health) has very low evidence strength; only 2 of 3 studies reported benefit, with the sole significant finding coming from a narrative review of a nano-bio fusion gel that may not isolate propolis's effects.

Effective dose patterns: No cross-cutting dose ranges could be established due to inconsistent reporting across outcomes. Most syntheses noted that dose and form data were absent or insufficient to recommend specific amounts.

Population insights: The strongest evidence consistently involves adults, particularly those with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Both the TNF-α and CRP findings draw primarily from diabetic populations. Other populations were not systematically studied.

Notable caveats: The evidence base across all outcomes is small (3–4 studies per outcome), and conclusions should be considered preliminary. Publication bias is a concern—null results may be underrepresented in the literature. Many studies did not reach statistical significance, especially for IL-6 and clinical attachment, suggesting that true effects may be smaller than reported.

Frequently asked

  • What is Propolis good for according to research?
    Research suggests propolis supplementation may help reduce inflammatory markers, particularly Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha (TNF-α) and C-reactive protein (CRP). Currently, 3 studies each show consistent beneficial effects for both outcomes, primarily in adults with type 2 diabetes. Evidence for reducing interleukin-6 and improving clinical attachment is mixed or weaker.
  • What dose of Propolis is typically used in studies?
    Doses and study durations were not consistently reported across the available syntheses. In most cases, the research summaries lacked sufficient data to identify a typical or optimal dose range. This limits the ability to translate findings into specific dosing recommendations.
  • Who benefits most from Propolis?
    The strongest evidence points to benefits in adults, particularly those with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Both the TNF-α and CRP findings are drawn from clinical populations that include diabetic patients. Other populations have not been studied enough to draw conclusions.
  • Are there caveats or limitations in the research on Propolis?
    Yes. The evidence base is small (3–4 studies per outcome), so conclusions are preliminary. Publication bias is likely—positive results are more often published than null findings. Also, many studies did not consistently report dose or duration, and some analyses grouped propolis with other natural products, making it hard to isolate its effects.
  • Does Propolis help reduce inflammation markers like TNF-α and CRP?
    Yes, the available evidence is consistently positive. All 3 studies for TNF-α reduction and all 3 for CRP reduction reported beneficial effects, with moderate-to-large effect sizes. However, the evidence strength is only moderate due to the small number of studies and potential publication bias.
  • Does Propolis help with periodontal health (clinical attachment)?
    Evidence is very limited and mixed. Of 3 studies, 2 reported benefit (one from a nano-bio fusion gel that may not isolate propolis) and 1 found neutral effects. The evidence strength is very low, so no reliable conclusions can be drawn.

Most-studied combinations with Propolis

most supplement research is combination research
Also studied with:Vitamin C (2), Honey (2)

  • Bee Propolis

    By Honey Gardens

    4.4 (9 reviews)
    In Stock
    Available From
    Available From
    MerchantPriceStockAction
    Amazon
    $-
    		Out
    iHerb
    $24.99
    		In
    Vitacost
    $24.99
    		In
    Vitamin Shoppe
    $-
    		Out
Back to top