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Dietary supplement

Propolis Water Soluble 15% Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Bee&You

Liquid Category: Botanical
Most serious interaction: Moderate
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Propolis Water Soluble 15% is a dietary supplement by Bee&You with 1 active ingredient. Its ingredients are commonly taken for cold sores and herpes lesions (topical), sore throat and mouth sores, wound and skin healing.Based on those ingredients, 921 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Propolis Resin. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Propolis Water Soluble 15% by Bee&You

Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

What’s inside

Full disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Full

Every active ingredient lists its own amount on the label.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 1 of its 1 active ingredient.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

This product contains one active ingredient: propolis resin at 15% water-soluble concentration. Propolis is a resin-like substance that honeybees collect and use to seal their hives.

It's composed of plant resins, waxes, and various plant compounds. The inactive ingredients are water and glycol, which help dissolve and deliver the propolis.

Does it work?

Moderate evidence
Evidence for Intended Use · database check
By FDA rules, dietary supplements can’t claim to treat, cure, or prevent disease — so labels speak in careful marketing language. We discern each product’s intended use from its name, label claims, and label statements, then grade the clinical evidence for that use. How these ratings are computed
Moderate

Some clinical evidence supports this product's ingredients for its stated purpose, but it isn't conclusive.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: source of antioxidants and immune system support.
  • We looked for evidence on: Upper respiratory tract infection (URTI), Herpes labialis (cold sores), Canker sores, Gingivitis, Periodontitis, Oral mucositis — and 4 related terms.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Propolis is rated "Possibly Effective" for Herpes labialis (cold sores) (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Propolis is rated "Possibly Effective" for Oral mucositis.
  • Also on file: Propolis is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Gingivitis, Upper respiratory tract infection (URTI), Periodontitis, Wound healing, and more.

Research supports propolis for oral mucositis (mouth sores or inflammation from medical treatment) and herpes labialis (cold sores) — both rated possibly effective based on available evidence. Propolis is also possibly effective for blood sugar management in diabetes.

For dengue fever, the evidence we have isn't reliable enough to rate it. If you're considering propolis for a specific condition, talk with your doctor about whether the evidence fits your situation.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Propolis

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

Adverse-effect, pregnancy, and general safety data are on file for most of these ingredients.

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 1 of the 1 matched ingredient.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 1 of 1.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 1 of 1.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Propolis is generally well tolerated when taken by mouth or applied to skin in the short term. The most common side effect orally is mild headache; in one trial, about 7% of people taking 250 mg twice daily for 4 months reported it.

Topically, it may cause contact irritation or dermatitis in sensitive individuals. Rare but serious allergic reactions are possible, especially if you're sensitive to bee products — propolis can trigger severe reactions, acute mouth sores with ulceration from lozenges, or contact skin reactions.

Because there isn't enough reliable safety data, propolis should be avoided during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Propolis

Meds to double-check

Moderate interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Moderate identified

The most serious documented interaction for these ingredients is Moderate. Check your medications for a personalized result.

Why this rating?
  • 1 of the 1 matched ingredient can interact with medications — Propolis.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs.
  • For scale: 922 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

Before taking this product, double-check with your doctor or pharmacist if you take blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs (like warfarin, aspirin, or clopidogrel) — propolis may increase bleeding risk or reduce warfarin's effect. Also flag any medications that your liver breaks down heavily, since propolis theoretically may raise their blood levels; this includes many common drugs.

The tool on this page can help you search your exact medications.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with some supporting evidence for its stated purpose. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

Propolis may be worth considering if you have cold sores, oral mucositis, or want to support blood sugar management, though the evidence is modest. The main caution is a large interaction potential with medications your liver processes and with blood thinners — this needs a conversation with your doctor or pharmacist before you start.

If you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or allergic to bee products, check with your healthcare provider first.

Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI

Assessment coverage: 1 of 1 active ingredient matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Feb 21, 2023.

This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed

At a glance

General information

Key facts about Propolis Water Soluble 15%, straight from the product label.

Brand Bee&You
Barcode (UPC) 190853001603
Net contents 1 Fluid Ounce(s); 30 mL
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Feb 21, 2023
DSLD ID 276370
Product type Botanical
Supplement form Liquid
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Children 4 or More Years of Age, Adult (18 - 50 Years), Kosher, Children more than 1 but less than 4
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for Propolis Water Soluble 15% by Bee&You, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
0.75 mL
Maximum serving Sizes:
0.75 mL
Servings per container
40
UPC/BARCODE
190853001603
IngredientAmount% DV
Propolis Resin120 mg--

Other ingredients: Water, Glycol

Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.

Label statements
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Suggested Use: As a dietary supplement, consume 20 drops daily preferably between meals. The dose can be increased up to 80 drops a day, when necessary. It can be consumed directly or mixed with water, milk, juice or smoothie of your choice.

Formulation

Alcohol free

Source of antioxidants Our products are produced in our ISO 22000, ISO 9001 and GMP certified facilities Help support immune system

Product of Turkey

Brand IP Statement(s)

Bee & You From the fascinating anatolia

Formula

15% pure propolis extract

OU (Kosher)

Propolis Propolis is a resin-like bee product that the bees collect from the leaves, stems and buds of the plants. The main function of propolis is to provide and maintain the antiseptic environment in the hive. Honey bees use propolis for protecting larvae and themselves against microorganisms (viruses, bacteria, fungus) and they use it as a source of disinfectant in the hive. It has a high antioxidant capacity due to its rich content of flavonoids and phenolic compounds.

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

Seals/Symbols

OU (Kosher)

Precautions

Keep out of reach of children. Unsuitable for infants under 1 year old.

People allergic to bee products may experience allergic reactions.

If you are lactating or pregnant, consult your healthcare professional before use.

Storage

This product can be stored at room temperature (72 - 76 degrees F) in its original container without exposure to sunlight and excess heat.

FDA Disclaimer Statement

This statements has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

General Statements

Contracted Beekeeping Our products are produced by "Contracted Beekeeping" to assure the highest quality and traceability from the hive to your table. Our products are also tested for their purity, biological activity and compliance with food safety standards.

See for yourself

Propolis Water Soluble 15% by Bee&You label

The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Propolis Water Soluble 15% by Bee&You

This is the 1 active ingredient this product is made of. Select it to open its full monograph.

Serving size0.75 mL Dosage formLiquid Servings per container40 Amounts shown are per serving.

Propolis Resin

Interacts with
921 drugs
120 mg per serving

Propolis is a natural, resin-like substance made by bees that has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties in lab studies. Early research sugges...

Propolis Resin monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Water, Glycol. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Propolis Water Soluble 15% by Bee&You Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Propolis Water Soluble 15%?

Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.

Go to the checker
921Drugs
921 Moderate

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Propolis Water Soluble 15% with known interactions, here are the types of medications it can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

Propolis Resin8 drug types · 921 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, propolis might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
In vitro research shows that propolis water extract and the propolis constituent, caffeic acid phenethyl ester, can inhibit platelet aggregation. Additionally, evidence from an animal model shows that taking propolis in addition to warfarin decreases INR, suggesting that propolis can decrease the effectiveness of warfarin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates

Theoretically, high doses of propolis might increase blood levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
In vitro research shows that propolis extract can inhibit CYP1A2. However, animal research shows that propolis extract does not significantly affect CYP1A2 activity when administered to rats at doses up to 250 mg/kg. It is postulated that the constituents of propolis that inhibit CYP1A2 in vitro do not have significant effects in vivo due to low bioavailability and hepatic first-pass effect. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2C19 (Cyp2C19) Substrates

Theoretically, high doses of propolis might increase blood levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C19.
In vitro research shows that propolis extract can inhibit CYP2C19. However, animal research shows that propolis extract does not significantly affect CYP2C19 activity when administered to rats at doses up to 250 mg/kg. It is postulated that the constituents of propolis that inhibit CYP2C19 in vitro do not have significant effects in vivo due to low bioavailability and hepatic first-pass effect. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2C9 (Cyp2C9) Substrates

Theoretically, high doses of propolis might increase blood levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C9.
In vitro research shows that propolis extract can inhibit CYP2C9. However, animal research shows that propolis extract does not significantly affect CYP2C9 activity when administered to rats at doses up to 250 mg/kg. It is postulated that the constituents of propolis that inhibit CYP2C9 in vitro do not have significant effects in vivo due to low bioavailability and hepatic first-pass effect. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2D6 (Cyp2D6) Substrates

Theoretically, high doses of propolis might increase blood levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
In vitro research shows that propolis extract can inhibit CYP2D6. However, animal research shows that propolis extract does not significantly affect CYP2D6 activity when administered to rats at doses up to 250 mg/kg. It is postulated that the constituents of propolis that inhibit CYP2D6 in vitro do not have significant effects in vivo due to low bioavailability and hepatic first-pass effect. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2E1 (Cyp2E1) Substrates

Theoretically, propolis might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2E1.
In vitro research shows that propolis can inhibit CYP2E1. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates

Theoretically, high doses of propolis might increase blood levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Some in vitro research shows that propolis extract can inhibit CYP3A4; however, other in vitro research shows that propolis has no effect on CYP3A4 activity. Furthermore, animal research shows that propolis extract does not significantly affect CYP3A4 activity when administered to rats at doses up to 250 mg/kg. It is postulated that the constituents of propolis that might in inhibit CYP3A4 in vitro do not have significant effects in vivo due to low bioavailability and hepatic first-pass effect. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Theoretically, propolis might decrease the effectiveness of warfarin.
Animal research shows that taking propolis in addition to warfarin decreases the international normalized ratio (INR). This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Propolis Water Soluble 15%, from the product label.

Bee&You

See all Bee&You products
Name
SBS Americas Inc.
Street Address
42 Broadway Suite 12-403
City
New York
State
NY
ZipCode
10004
Web Address
www.bee-and-you.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Propolis Water Soluble 15% by Bee&You: Common Questions

Does Propolis Water Soluble 15% by Bee&You interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Propolis Water Soluble 15% has a known interaction with 921 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Propolis Water Soluble 15% contains a single active ingredient, and that one ingredient can interact with many different medications on its own. We check it against each medication and show the mechanism responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
Can I take propolis if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
No, not based on the data we have. There isn't enough reliable safety information, so it's best avoided during pregnancy. While breastfeeding, propolis is rated possibly safe, but again there's limited data — talk with your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice.
What are the side effects I should watch for?
Most commonly, mild headache — about 7% of people in one trial reported this when taking 250 mg twice daily for 4 months. If you apply it to skin, you might experience contact irritation or dermatitis. Rare but serious allergic reactions are possible, especially if you're sensitive to bee products, so stop and seek help if you notice swelling, trouble breathing, or severe rash.
Does propolis really work for cold sores and mouth sores?
The evidence suggests it's possibly effective for both cold sores (herpes labialis) and oral mucositis. That means some research supports it, but it's not definitive — results vary. Your mileage may differ, and it works best as part of a broader approach with your doctor.
Can propolis help with diabetes?
Propolis is rated possibly effective for blood sugar management, so there's some research support. It's not a replacement for diabetes medications or diet changes, though — talk with your doctor about whether it fits into your plan.
What exactly is propolis?
It's a resin-like substance that honeybees collect from plants and use to seal and protect their hives. This product is a 15% water-soluble extract, meaning the active compounds have been concentrated and dissolved in water for easier absorption.
Is this safe if I'm allergic to bee products?
No. Propolis is derived from bees and their hives, so people sensitive to bee products are more likely to have an allergic reaction. If you have any bee or pollen allergies, skip this product and talk with your doctor.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

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Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.

Propolis Water Soluble 15% label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Propolis Water Soluble 15%’s Ingredients

Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.

Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Propolis Water Soluble 15%'s label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.

Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.

The 21 references behind this product’s interaction data

Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

Propolis 21 references
  1. Hay KD, Greig DE. Propolis allergy: a cause of oral mucositis with ulceration. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol 1990;70:584-6. PubMed
  2. Li YJ, Lin JL, Yang CW, Yu CC. Acute renal failure induced by a Brazilian variety of propolis. Am J Kidney Dis 2005;46:e125-9. PubMed
  3. Jensen CD, Andersen KE. Allergic contact dermatitis from cera alba (purified propolis) in a lip balm and candy. Contact Dermatitis 2006;55:312-3. PubMed
  4. Chen, T. G., Lee, J. J., Lin, K. H., Shen, C. H., Chou, D. S., and Sheu, J. R. Antiplatelet activity of caffeic acid phenethyl ester is mediated through a cyclic GMP-dependent pathway in human platelets. Chin J Physiol 6-30-2007;50(3):121-126.
  5. Hsu, C. Y., Chiang, W. C., Weng, T. I., Chen, W. J., and Yuan, A. Laryngeal edema and anaphalactic shock after topical propolis use for acute pharyngitis. Am J Emerg.Med 2004;22(5):432-433. PubMed
  6. Black, R. J. Vulval eczema associated with propolis sensitization from topical therapies treated successfully with pimecrolimus cream. Clin Exp.Dermatol. 2005;30(1):91-92. PubMed
  7. Matos D, Serrano P, Brandao FM. A case of allergic contact dermatitis caused by propolis-enriched honey. Contact Dermatitis 2015;72(1):59-60. PubMed
  8. Naramoto K, Kato M, Ichihara K. Effects of an ethanol extract of Brazilian green propolis on human cytochrome P450 enzyme activities in vitro. J Agric Food Chem 2014;62(46):11296-302. PubMed
  9. Nyman G, Hagvall L. A case of allergic contact cheilitis caused by propolis and honey. Contact Dermatitis 2016;74(3):186-7. PubMed
  10. Ryu CS, Oh SJ, Oh JM, et al. Inhibition of cytochrome P450 by propolis in human liver microsomes. Toxicol Res 2016;32(3):207-13. PubMed
  11. Akbay E, Özenirler Ç, Çelemli ÖG, Durukan AB, Onur MA, Sorkun K. Effects of propolis on warfarin efficacy. Kardiochir Torakochirurgia Pol. 2017;14(1):43-46. PubMed
  12. Lamoureux A, Meharon M, Durand AL, Darrigade AS, Doutre MS, Milpied B. A first case of erythema multiforme-like contact dermatitis caused by propolis. Contact Dermatitis. 2017;77(4):263-264. PubMed
  13. Piredda M, Facchinetti G, Biagioli V, et al. Propolis in the prevention of oral mucositis in breast cancer patients receiving adjuvant chemotherapy: A pilot randomised controlled trial. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl). 2017;26(6). PubMed
  14. Zhang YX, Yang TT, Xia L, Zhang WF, Wang JF, Wu YP. Inhibitory Effect of Propolis on Platelet Aggregation In Vitro. J Healthc Eng. 2017;2017:3050895. PubMed
  15. Nyman GSA, Tang M, Inerot A, Osmancevic A, Malmberg P, Hagvall L. Contact allergy to beeswax and propolis among patients with cheilitis or facial dermatitis. Contact Dermatitis 2019;81(2):110-6. PubMed
  16. Igarashi G, Segawa T, Akiyama N, et al. Efficacy of Brazilian propolis supplementation for japanese lactating women for atopic sensitization and nonspecific symptoms in their offspring: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Evid Based Comp PubMed
  17. Soleimani D, Rezaie M, Rajabzadeh F, et al. Protective effects of propolis on hepatic steatosis and fibrosis among patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) evaluated by real-time two-dimensional shear wave elastography: a randomized clinical
  18. D'Ercole MC. Prolonged use of propolis can increase liver enzymes. J Gastrointestin Liver Dis 2020;29(3):468-9. PubMed
  19. Cho E, Lee JD, Cho SH. Systemic contact dermatitis from propolis ingestion. Ann Dermatol. 2011;23(1):85-88. PubMed
  20. Hallajzadeh J, Milajerdi A, Amirani E, Attari VE, Maghsoudi H, Mirhashemi SM. Effects of propolis supplementation on glycemic status, lipid profiles, inflammation and oxidative stress, liver enzymes, and body weight: a systematic review and meta-analysis
  21. Gheflati A, Dehnavi Z, Ghannadzadeh Yazdi A, Khorasanchi Z, Raeisi-Dehkordi H, Ranjbar G. The effects of propolis supplementation on metabolic parameters: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials. Avicenna J Phytomed

See these in context on the Propolis monograph →

Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

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