Collapsible content
What is the frequency of allergic reaction in adults and children?
Propolis is an increasingly important allergen, with European studies reporting positive patch test rates of 1.2 to 6.6%. In one series from Finland, the rate increased from 0.5% in 1995-7 to 1.4% in 2000-2. Another study in children reported an increase from 2% to 13.7% between 1995 and 2002; 75% of the patch test-positive children had used a natural product or alternative medicine remedy. In a 2010 Polish patch test study of children with chronic recurrent eczema and atopy, a positive propolis patch test was recorded in 16.5% of children aged 7-8 years and 5.4% of adolescents aged 16-17 years. Propolis was the second most common positive patch test allergen after nickel in children and the fourth most common in adolescents.
Source – Derm Net NZ: http://www.dermnetnz.org/dermatitis/propolis-allergy.html (excerpts from this source are used)
Can products containing propolis be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Not enough is known about the use of propolis during pregnancy and breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use. Many tinctures contain high levels of alcohol and should be avoided during pregnancy.
Source – WebMD: http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-390-PROPOLIS.aspx?activeIngredientId=390&activeIngredientName=PROPOLIS (excerpts from this source are used)
Can propolis be used to boost blood?
Propolis has powerful antioxidant properties. When swallowed in supplements, the antioxidants in propolis help to eradicate free radicals from the blood stream. Free radicals are caused by corrupted molecules in the blood, and can lead to long term problems with blood flow as well as increased susceptibility to disease. Antioxidants help to repair corrupted molecules, with the aim of balancing out the oxygen content and healthy flow of the blood.
Source – LivingGreenMag: http://livinggreenmag.com/2013/04/10/food-health/bees-make-more-than-honey-the-health-benefits-of-propolis/
Does propolis boost the immune system?
Propolis alone is an effective tool to boosting immune system due to its immunostimulant properties. It’s effects are even more powerful in combination with other medicinal plants such as Echinacea and garlic for stimulation the immune system and protecting the body from infection.
Source – Mr-Ginseng: http://en.mr-ginseng.com/propolis/