Bee propolis benefits: nature's most powerful immunity booster

What is propolis and how is it made?

Propolis is a resinous substance crafted by honeybees from the sticky sap of nearby trees — mostly spruce, fir, and pine. Bees chew on the raw sap much like bubble gum, and their saliva adds the enzymes needed to transform it into propolis. Inside the hive, it acts as a natural sealant and antimicrobial shield, protecting the colony from bacteria, fungi, and viruses.

Just like honey and pollen, propolis composition changes based on the vegetation surrounding the hive. It is most commonly dark brown, but can appear red, green, black, or even white depending on local resin sources — making each batch genuinely unique.

What's inside propolis? The science of its 300+ compounds

Researchers have identified more than 300 compounds in propolis. The majority are polyphenols — micronutrients found in plants that are packed with antioxidants. These compounds give propolis its remarkable range of properties:

• Antifungal
• Antiviral
• Antibacterial
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antioxidant

The combination of these properties makes propolis one of the most versatile natural wellness ingredients available.

Top health benefits of bee propolis

Immune support

Propolis is best known for its ability to support the body's natural defenses. Its high antioxidant and antimicrobial content makes it a go-to for everyday immune maintenance and extra protection during cold and flu season, travel, or stressful periods.

Sore throat and upper respiratory relief

Propolis has long been used to soothe sore throats and assist with upper respiratory tract infections. A sublingual spray is particularly effective here — direct application to the throat mucosa allows for fast absorption exactly where you need it most.

Wound healing and skin support

Thanks to its natural antimicrobial properties, propolis has been shown to assist in the healing of minor wounds and skin infections — a use going back to ancient Egypt.

Allergy support

There is promising research suggesting propolis may be an excellent natural way to manage seasonal allergies. Studies indicate it can help modulate the immune response associated with allergic reactions. You can read more about that research here.

Oral health

Propolis has been studied for its benefits in oral health, including reducing harmful bacteria in the mouth, supporting gum health, and its natural antimicrobial action against oral pathogens.

Propolis and manuka honey: better together

Propolis and manuka honey are two of nature's most powerful antimicrobial substances — and they work even better as a team. Manuka honey (from New Zealand) is renowned for its uniquely high levels of methylglyoxal (MGO), which gives it antibacterial and antiviral properties found in no other honey. Propolis brings its broad-spectrum antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial compounds to the mix.

Together, they create a layered natural defense that supports your immune system from multiple angles. That's exactly why we combined both in our flagship product, the Propolis DEFEND Honey Spray — our signature "immunity on the go" spray combining bee propolis, New Zealand manuka honey, and our mushroom trilogy (lion's mane, reishi, and chaga) in a convenient sublingual spray. Loved by kids and adults alike.

How to use propolis daily

One of the best things about propolis is how easy it is to build into a daily routine. Here are the most common ways to use it:

• As a daily wellness spray — a few sprays in the morning as part of your routine
• During travel — keep one in your bag for planes, airports, and hotels
• At the first sign of illness — sore throat, sniffles, or exposure to someone sick
• During seasonal transitions — fall and spring when immunity often dips
• As a spoonable honey blend — stirred into tea, smoothies, or eaten straight off the spoon

In our house, we keep a DEFEND spray in our purse, car, kitchen, and bathroom so we never miss a dose. That's why we offer a 4-pack bundle — it's the easiest way to stay covered everywhere.

Prefer a spoonable format? Our Superfood Honeyblend also features propolis extract alongside chaga, reishi, turmeric, and manuka honey — a rich, daily immunity blend that tastes as good as it works.

Stack propolis with medicinal mushrooms for total body defense

For those who want to go deeper on immune support, combining propolis with medicinal mushrooms is one of the most well-researched natural strategies available. Reishi, chaga, and lion's mane each bring distinct immune-modulating and adaptogenic properties that complement propolis beautifully:

• Chaga — one of the highest antioxidant sources on the planet
• Reishi — anti-inflammatory, promotes healing and recovery
• Lion's mane — supports nerve growth factor and brain health

Our Immunity Bundle is the easiest way to experience this combination — pairing our Mushroom TRILOGY Tincture (lion's mane, reishi, chaga + manuka honey) with the Superfood Honeyblend for complete, layered immune support. It's also a favorite gift for anyone who takes their wellness seriously.

Frequently asked questions about propolis

Is propolis safe to take every day?

For most people, yes — propolis is well-tolerated as a daily supplement. If you have a bee allergy, consult your physician before use. As always, check with your doctor if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.

What does propolis taste like?

Raw propolis has a slightly bitter, resinous taste. Our DEFEND Honey Spray combines it with manuka honey and peppermint oil for a smooth, refreshing finish that adults and kids love.

How is propolis different from manuka honey?

Both are powerful natural antimicrobials, but they work differently. Manuka honey's strength comes primarily from its high MGO content, giving it antibacterial and antiviral properties. Propolis adds a broader range of antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial compounds from its 300+ polyphenols. Together they're more powerful than either alone.

Can children use propolis?

Yes — our DEFEND Honey Spray is loved by kids and adults alike. The honey and peppermint flavor makes it easy for little ones to take. Always consult your pediatrician for children under two.

Also in Manuka Mana