Bee propolis – immune balance and biological robustness
Bee propolis, often referred to as bee glue or "bee glue", is a complex, bioactive substance produced by honeybees through the collection of resin and plant exudates from buds, bark and foliage. These natural plant compounds combine with beeswax and enzymes from the bees themselves to form a biologically advanced defense system that is used to seal, sterilize and protect the hive against microorganisms, parasites and environmental stresses. In practice, propolis acts as the bees' immune and defense system, and modern research shows that many of the same properties can support the normal biological regulation of humans.
The use of propolis stretches back several thousand years. In ancient Egypt, propolis was used in embalming, in ancient Greece and Rome as a disinfectant and wound protection, and in traditional folk medicine worldwide to support respiratory tract, skin and general resilience. Today, advanced analytical technology has made it possible to map propolis' chemical complexity and biological mechanisms in detail.
Uno Vita has obtained key professional information from the Life Extension Foundation's (LEF) article What Are the Benefits of Bee Propolis?, published in December 2025, written by Mia Syn, MS, RD, and scientifically reviewed by Michael A. Smith, MD. This article forms an important foundation for the understanding of propolis in modern nutritional science. In addition, the content is based on a broad review of recent research from PubMed, Google Scholar, the EFSA register, the Cochrane Library and international review articles in immunology, nutrition, pharmacognosy and bioactive plant substances.
🧬 What makes propolis biologically unique?
Propolis consists of over 300 identified bioactive compounds, including polyphenols, flavonoids, phenolic acids, esters, terpenoids and aromatic alcohols. The composition varies considerably depending on geography, climate and available plants. For example, Brazilian green propolis is rich in artepillin C, while European poplar-type propolis contains higher levels of pinocembrin, galangin and caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE).
This natural variation explains why raw propolis can produce unpredictable effects. Modern research shows that standardized extracts, such as Promunel® with a defined content of 12% polyphenols, provides far more consistent and documentable biological effects. Standardization makes it possible to reproduce the levels used in clinical trials and is essential for reliable use in dietary supplements.
🛡️ Support for immune response and respiratory comfort
One of the best documented effects of standardized propolis is support for the body's normal immune response, particularly in the upper respiratory tract. In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study with 295 adults over 12 weeks in the autumn and winter months, the use of standardized propolis showed 31% lower likelihood of respiratory discomfort, 29% fewer seasonal respiratory challenges and 34% shorter duration compared to placebo. The effects are linked to immunomodulating properties, reduction of oxidative stress and support for a more balanced inflammatory response pattern.
🧪 Antioxidant and inflammation-modulating properties
Propolis is a concentrated source of polyphenols and flavonoids that help protect cells against oxidative stress. Studies show increases in total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and support for the body's own antioxidant systems, including glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Propolis is also associated with a reduction in inflammatory signaling molecules such as CRP, IL-6, TNF-α and MCP-1, which is relevant in chronic low-grade inflammation and biological stress.
🦠 Antimicrobial and antiviral support
In laboratory and preclinical studies, propolis has shown broad antimicrobial activity against bacteria such as Streptococcus and Staphylococcus, as well as antifungal activity against Candida species. Antiviral effects against both RNA and DNA viruses have also been documented, including inhibition of virus replication in in vitro models of SARS-CoV-2 and herpes virus. The complex composition makes it difficult for microorganisms to develop resistance.
🧠 Neuroprotective and systemic effects
Less well known, but academically interesting, is propolis' potential to support neuroprotective mechanisms. Preclinical studies indicate reduction of oxidative stress in the nervous system, support for mitochondrial function and influence of signaling pathways related to cognitive function, stress response and mental robustness.
🦷 Skin, wound healing and oral health
Propolis has traditionally been used topically for wounds and skin ailments. Modern studies support effects on wound healing, microbial imbalances, plaque formation and gingivitis, and propolis is now used in selected skin and dental care products.
🌿 Gut, metabolism and cardiovascular support
Research indicates that propolis can support the intestinal microbiological balance, reduce local inflammation and contribute to better metabolic regulation. In studies on people with metabolic stress and diabetes, propolis is associated with improvements in lipid profiles and blood pressure markers, mainly through antioxidative and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.
⚠️ Disclaimer and responsibility
Propolis is intended to support normal biological processes and should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment or a varied diet. The effect may vary between individuals. Pregnant women, nursing mothers and people with medical conditions should consult a qualified healthcare professional before use.
📚 Scientific references
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Balasubramaniam AK et al. Propolis: A comprehensive review on nature's polyphenolic wonder. Phytotherapy. 2025
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Martinotti S et al. Propolis: A natural substance with multifaceted properties and activities. Int J Mol Sci. 2025
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Ayad M et al. Propolis stands out as a multifaceted natural product. Life. 2025
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Vajdi M et al. Effects of propolis supplementation on inflammation and oxidative stress. Journal of Functional Foods. 2025
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Magnavacca A et al. The antiviral and immunomodulatory activities of propolis. Medicinal Research Reviews. 2022
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Almutairi S et al. Recent update on the anti-inflammatory activities of propolis. Molecules. 2022
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Esposito C et al. A standardized polyphenol mixture extracted from poplar-type propolis. Phytomedicine. 2021
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Zullkiflee N et al. Propolis: Its role and efficacy in human health. Molecules. 2022
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Ristivojevic P et al. Polyphenolic profile of propolis and biological activity. Scientific Reports. 2021
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Grinn-Gofroń A et al. Antimicrobial potential of bee-derived products. Pathogens. 2025
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Fytexia SAS. Promunel® immune and respiratory health documentation
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Syn M, Smith MA. What Are the Benefits of Bee Propolis? Life Extension Foundation. December 2025
