The Side Effects of Propolis

Like any other honey bee products, around 10% of the human population cannot tolerate propolis.

Who are they?

Those known to be allergic to propolis include :-

• Asthma Patients:
  If you have asthma, you should avoid propolis because some chemicals or impurities in it may induce an attack. If you want to use it, ask your doctor’s advise first.
• Those Allergic To Bee Stings:
  If you’re allergic to bee stings, the bad news is propolis could induce a similar side effect.
• Those Allergic to Bee Pollen:
  Pollens in propolis may come from any plants – and not just plants in surrounding areas where you buy your product. So, if you’re already allergic to bee pollen or evergreens, you are advised not to use propolis.
• Pregnant Women:
  There are not many published clinical trials on the effect of propolis on pregnant women. Because the information in this area is limited, please avoid using propolis if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Others at risk :
  If you know that you’re allergic to black poplar (also populas nigra), poplar buds, honey and balsam of Peru, forget about propolis. There are around 8 to 13 compounds that propolis and balsam of Peru have in common. Some of these compounds are benzyl benzoate, cinnamyl cinnamate, and benzyl cinnamate. Several studies have suggested that patients who are sensitive to propolis also may react to balsam of Peru.

The cause

In propolis, a substance called the B1 is believed to be the reason behind these side effects.

Allergic reaction from this substance was first documented in 1915 when a beekeeper suffered from dermatitis on his fingers and wrists. But the case was classified as an occupational effect.

And because propolis is also used as the coating on Italian varnish, instrument makers and musicians have also been reported to get contact dermatitis. Here are some cases of allergies suffered by those who use violins coated with propolis.

Right now it is seen mainly on those who :-

• use cosmetics that contain propolis, or
• take propolis as supplements to treat various health conditions.

The symptoms of allergies

If you’re allergic to propolis, it may cause your skin to

• Redden.
• Develop rashes.
• Swell.
• Itch, or
• Crack.

It could also induce :-

• Eczema.
• Lesions.
• Psoriasis, or
• Mouth sores.

A word of advice

Even if you’re not listed as those at risk, you should always take some precautions when using any form of medications.

The best way to start taking propolis is to try it gradually. Use small quantities of propolis for the first few days. If there are no side effects, increase your propolis intake gradually to the full outlined dosage.

This way you would be able to test your comparability with the propolis product you’re taking and avoid embarrassing (and painful) reactions to the substance.

Similarly, if you decide to stop the medical treatment prescribed by your doctor, do it gradually (after his okay, of course).

Related posts:

1. The ingredients that cause the side effects
2. How high is the allergy risk?