Lesher Wellness

What variations of bee propolis exist?

A sticky resin that bees collect from tree buds to seal and protect their hive. It's rich in plant compounds (flavonoids) and used in throat sprays and lozenges for sore throats and immune support. It comes in 3 forms, and they aren't all the same. Here's how they differ.

Medical Disclaimer

For education only. What's right for you depends on your health and your medications, so check with your provider before you start or switch. Book a consult 

Pick by what you want help with

Immune support

Look for

The see-what-you-get oneStandardized propolis extract listing polyphenol content

Our top pick

Colds & sore throat

Look for

The throat oneThroat spray or lozenge

Also good

Every form, in plain words

Our top pick

The see-what-you-get one

Standardized propolis extract listing polyphenol content

Shows how much of the active compounds you're getting.

Good for: Immune support

Also good

The throat one

Throat spray or lozenge

Goes right where your throat hurts. Lozenges may also have honey or sugar.

Good for: Colds & sore throat

Also good

The blend

Propolis in multi-ingredient blends

Handy, but the amount is often small or hidden in a blend.

Spotting a good one on the shelf

Look for

  • Look for 'Standardized propolis extract listing polyphenol content' on the label (the see-what-you-get one)

Watch out for

  • Doesn't list polyphenols or flavonoids (the active compounds)
  • Made with alcohol (a tincture), if you avoid alcohol

Check with your provider first if…

  • You're allergic to bee stings, bee products, poplar, or balsam of Peru: avoid it. Propolis often causes allergic reactions.
  • You have asthma. Bee products can set off a reaction, so ask your provider first.
  • You take a blood thinner. Ask your provider first.
  • You're pregnant or breastfeeding: not well studied. Skip tinctures made with alcohol.
  • Sprays and lozenges can irritate your mouth or cause sores

More about bee propolis

Full bee propolis guide

In the Lesher Wellness store

7 products in the store have bee propolis. Here's which form, where the label says.

Medical Disclaimer

Check with your provider before taking any of these, especially if you're pregnant or take medications.

Dr. Lesher, ND

Ready to find the root cause?

Dr. Lesher is a Naturopathic Doctor who focuses on autoimmune and chronic conditions in women. Since 2020, she's helped hundreds of patients stop managing symptoms and start healing.

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