Tincture of propolis

Propolis extract tincture is a natural supplement derived from propolis, a resinous substance collected by bees from the buds of trees and other plant sources. Bees use propolis to seal and protect their hives from infections, and for centuries, humans have harnessed its potent medicinal properties. Our tincture is a concentrated liquid form of propolis, making it easy to incorporate into your daily wellness routine.

Benefits of Propolis Extract Tincture

1. Antimicrobial Properties: Propolis is known for its strong antimicrobial effects, which can help fight off bacteria, viruses, and fungi. This makes it useful for boosting the immune system and preventing infections.2. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: The anti-inflammatory properties of propolis can assist in reducing inflammation in the body, potentially aiding in the treatment of conditions like arthritis, and soothing sore throats and inflamed skin.3. Antioxidant Power: Rich in flavonoids, propolis acts as a powerful antioxidant, helping to protect the body from oxidative stress and free radical damage, which are linked to aging and various chronic diseases.4. Wound Healing: Propolis can accelerate the healing of wounds and burns by promoting tissue regeneration and preventing infections.5. Oral Health: Propolis is often used in natural dental care for its ability to fight cavities, gum disease, and oral infections.

When to Use Propolis Extract Tincture

- Immune Support: During cold and flu season or when you're feeling run down, propolis can help boost your immune defenses.- Skin Conditions: Apply topically for minor cuts, burns, and skin irritations to aid healing.- Oral Care: Use as part of your oral hygiene routine to help maintain healthy gums and teeth.- Sore Throat and Respiratory Issues: Add to a glass of warm water and gargle or ingest to soothe a sore throat and ease respiratory discomfort.

When to Avoid Propolis Extract Tincture

- Allergies to Bee Products: If you are allergic to bees or bee products, including honey, royal jelly, or beeswax, avoid using propolis as it may cause an allergic reaction.- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: While propolis is generally considered safe, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.- Asthma: Propolis might exacerbate asthma symptoms in some individuals, so those with asthma should use it with caution and consult a healthcare professional before use.

How to use?

For treatment during illness, weakness (which may indicate an impending illness) or when necessary for strengthening (acute treatment): for adults, 20 drops of propolis in water, 3 times a day, on a free stomach (half an hour before a meal, or 2-3 hours after a meal. There is no obligation to eat before or after taking the extract). Continue until you feel a benefit and then lower the dose to ־15-10 drops, 3 times a day, until recovery and strengthening.For preventive treatment, for those prone to get sick due to a weak immune system, or for travelers to places with low hygiene conditions (for a limited time): for adults, 10 drops in water, 3 times a day, on a free stomach. Continue taking the extract as needed (it is worth consulting with me).The treatment of children (ages 5-15): the number of drops will be 1.5 times their age (for example: 12 drops for an 8-year-old child) in water (also possible in tea or juice), 3 times a day, on a free stomach. Continue the treatment as needed, until recovery and strengthening.Propolis extract tincture is a versatile and potent natural remedy with numerous health benefits, from boosting immunity to promoting skin health. However, it’s essential to use it safely by being aware of potential allergies and consulting with a healthcare provider when necessary. Incorporate this powerful tincture into your wellness routine and enjoy the protective benefits it offers.

What Propolis Is

Propolis is not a plant extract or a mushroom — it is a resinous material honey bees produce by combining tree and bud resins with wax and their own enzymes. Bees use it to seal gaps in the hive, smooth interior walls, and coat intruders too large to remove, which keeps the colony's interior remarkably free of microbial growth.
That is also why its composition varies so much. Propolis takes its chemistry from whatever trees the bees foraged, so European propolis (typically poplar-derived, rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids) differs substantially from Brazilian green propolis or Mediterranean types. Over 300 compounds have been identified across propolis samples, with flavonoids, phenolic acids and esters the groups most commonly credited for its activity.

How to Use Propolis Tincture

Propolis tincture is used both internally and topically, which is unusual among the products we stock.
Internally: 10–20 drops in water, juice or tea, once or twice daily. Do not take it neat — propolis is intensely resinous and astringent, and it will coat the mouth. Diluting also reduces the risk of irritating the throat.
Oral care: a few drops in a small glass of water makes a mouth rinse, which is propolis's most traditional application.
Topically: a few drops can be applied to intact skin. Patch-test first on the inner forearm and wait 24 hours — propolis is a well-documented contact allergen, and this is not an optional step.
Propolis stains. It leaves a stubborn brown residue on fabric, worktops and teeth if used neat, so dilute and rinse.

Storage and Shelf Life

Store upright in a cool, dark place with the cap tightly closed. Alcohol preserves propolis well and the tincture keeps for several years.
Keep it out of sunlight, as UV degrades the flavonoids. Some sediment is normal — propolis is a resin and will separate over time — so shake before use. The tincture is sticky and resinous, so wipe the bottle neck before recapping or the cap will eventually seize shut.

Safety and Contraindications

Propolis has one important and frequently underestimated caution: it is a common contact allergen and a recognised cause of allergic reactions, including contact dermatitis and, rarely, more severe responses.
Do not use propolis if you are allergic to bees, bee stings, honey or other bee products — this is a firm contraindication, not a precaution. People with asthma should be particularly careful, as reactions have been reported. Anyone with an allergy to poplar, conifers or Peru balsam may also react, since propolis shares constituents with them.
Always patch-test before topical use, and start with a smaller amount internally. Discontinue immediately if you develop a rash, mouth irritation, swelling or difficulty breathing, and seek medical help for anything beyond mild irritation.
Propolis may have mild blood-thinning effects and may interact with anticoagulant medication; discontinue before scheduled surgery. This tincture contains alcohol and is unsuitable for anyone avoiding it. Do not use if pregnant or breastfeeding without medical advice, and do not give propolis to infants under one year. This product is a food supplement, not a medicine, and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is propolis tincture safe to take daily? Yes, for most healthy adults at the recommended dose. Propolis is a bee-derived product, so anyone with a bee sting or pollen allergy should avoid it or consult a doctor first.

How should I take it? Dilute the recommended number of drops in water or a warm drink rather than taking it undiluted — propolis tincture is concentrated and can otherwise irritate the mouth or throat.

Why is it in alcohol rather than water? Propolis's resins and flavonoids are far more soluble in alcohol than in water, which is why a tincture extracts more of the resin's active content than a water-based preparation would.

Explore related products: Reishi tincture, Chaga tincture, tinctures set of 3.