Propolis is one of the most fascinating natural substances from the beehive. For centuries, this so-called bee resin has been used in traditional healing methods, cosmetics, and increasingly in the food industry. Thanks to its complex composition of bioactive plant compounds, propolis is now gaining more and more attention in modern research and product development.
In this article, you will learn what propolis is, how it is produced, its applications in cosmetics and food, and which scientific studies are investigating its health benefits.
What is Propolis?
Propolis is a resinous substance that honeybees produce from plant resins. The bees collect these resins from buds, bark, or wounds on trees and mix them with wax, pollen, and enzymes from their saliva.
In the beehive, propolis fulfills an important function: It serves as a natural protection against bacteria, viruses, and fungi and helps to seal the hive and keep it hygienic.
The name comes from the Greek: pro = before / polis = city
Therefore, propolis literally means "protection of the city," with "city" referring to the beehive.
Chemically, it is not a single substance, but a complex natural mixture with over 300 identified components, including:
- Flavonoids
- Phenolic acids
- Terpenes
- Aromatic aldehydes
- Wax components
The biological properties of propolis are primarily due to polyphenolic plant compounds, especially flavonoids and phenolic acids. These can sometimes make up to 50% of its composition.
Among the most important substances are: quercetin, apigenin, caffeic acid, cinnamic acid derivatives, and p-coumaric acid.
These molecules possess, among other things, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
This composition varies greatly depending on geographical origin and plant sources.
Not every bee produces propolis.
Many beekeepers find little or no propolis in their hives—some even consider it a waste product—because several factors come into play:
- Bee breed: Some lines collect hardly any propolis because beekeepers have often bred them for "less glue in the hive."
- Resin sources: If trees like poplars, birches, or conifers are absent, there is little raw material for propolis.
- Hive construction: Modern, precisely fitted hives have fewer gaps—bees have less to seal.
- Environment & climate: More propolis is usually collected in forested and cooler regions.
In short: The genetics of the bees, the environment, and the hive construction determine whether a colony produces a lot or a little propolis.
Health benefits
Propolis contains numerous bioactive plant compounds such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, which are attributed with various health-promoting properties.
Studies are investigating the following effects in particular:
- Antimicrobial: Propolis can inhibit the growth of certain bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
- Antioxidant: The polyphenols it contains help neutralize free radicals.
- Anti-inflammatory: Some components can modulate inflammatory processes in the body.
- Skin protection: Studies show positive effects on skin problems and wound healing.
Some studies also suggest potential benefits for the immune system, oral health, and cardiovascular parameters. However, the results vary because the composition and quality of propolis differ significantly depending on its origin. Further research is therefore still needed.
Studies:
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40662144/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34925517/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35062065/
Uses in Cosmetics
Propolis is a popular ingredient in natural cosmetics. This is due to its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.
Typical applications: skin creams and serums, lip care, acne products,
oral care (toothpaste, mouthwashes).
In skincare formulations, propolis can help soothe skin irritations, support the skin microbiome, and promote wound healing.
Therefore, propolis is frequently found in products for problematic or sensitive skin.
Did you know?
A bee colony produces only about 50–200 g of propolis annually. Harvesting propolis is a complex process, as the resin is collected in small quantities from various plants and processed within the hive. Therefore, propolis as a raw material is significantly scarcer and is usually harvested selectively using special propolis grids.
Thanks to propolis, the beehive is considered extremely hygienic – sometimes described as more sterile than an operating room. Bees use propolis to seal cracks and coat surfaces within the hive with a protective layer of resin. This so-called "propolis shell" can inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms. This creates a remarkably stable and hygienic microclimate within the beehive, contributing to the health of the bees.
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Disclaimer
For legal reasons, we would like to point out that some of the above statements require further research and studies to scientifically prove them. Therefore, not all statements can currently be accepted by conventional medicine.
The information contained in this article regarding legal regulations, approvals, and possible uses of raw materials is based on careful research and our current state of knowledge (as of July 2025). However, we assume no liability for the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information.
The legal framework for food and food supplements is subject to constant change. Therefore, the manufacturer or distributor is always responsible for checking the applicable regulations, EU regulations, and approval lists for the use of raw materials and health-related claims.
In case of legal uncertainty, we recommend consulting legal experts or the relevant authorities.