Brazilian Propolis Water Extract
Also known as: Brazilian Propolis, Brazilian Green Propolis, EPP-AF®, Propolis
Overview
Brazilian Propolis Water Extract is a natural botanical supplement derived from the resinous substances collected by bees from Brazilian flora, particularly *Baccharis dracunculifolia*. This water-based extract is rich in phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and other bioactive molecules, which contribute to its diverse therapeutic properties. It is primarily utilized for its potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory effects. While propolis has a long history of traditional use, modern research, including numerous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews, supports its application in dietary supplements and as an adjunctive therapy for various conditions. These include infections, inflammatory conditions, metabolic disorders, and more recently, as a supportive agent in viral infections like COVID-19. Although water extracts are less studied than their ethanol counterparts, standardized forms like EPP-AF® are gaining recognition for their optimized bioactive content and demonstrated efficacy.
Benefits
Brazilian Propolis Water Extract offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily driven by its rich content of phenolic acids and flavonoids. Meta-analyses of human RCTs indicate its strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, showing statistically significant reductions in oxidative stress markers and inflammation (p < 0.05). For instance, studies have reported improvements in biomarkers like AST, though effects on lipid profiles and ALT are inconsistent. It also exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, viruses, and fungi, both in vitro and in clinical settings. A notable high-quality RCT (n=188) demonstrated that a standardized Brazilian green propolis extract (EPP-AF®) significantly reduced secondary infections in hospitalized COVID-19 patients (6.1% vs. 18.9%, p=0.01), although it did not shorten hospital stay. Secondary benefits include potential renal protection and immunomodulation. Individuals with metabolic syndrome, liver dysfunction, and infectious diseases appear to benefit most. Effect sizes are generally moderate, with benefits typically observed after 4-12 weeks of consistent supplementation.
How it works
Brazilian Propolis Water Extract exerts its effects through multiple mechanisms. Its high concentration of phenolic acids and flavonoids enables it to modulate oxidative stress by directly scavenging free radicals and enhancing the activity of endogenous antioxidant enzymes. The anti-inflammatory actions are mediated by inhibiting key signaling pathways, such as NF-κB, and downregulating the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Its antimicrobial properties stem from its ability to disrupt microbial cell membranes and inhibit essential microbial enzymes. Furthermore, it modulates the immune system by influencing the activity of macrophages and lymphocytes. While water extracts generally have lower bioavailability than ethanol extracts, they effectively preserve hydrophilic bioactive compounds. Standardized extracts like EPP-AF® are designed to optimize the delivery and efficacy of these beneficial compounds.
Side effects
Brazilian Propolis Water Extract is generally considered safe with a low incidence of adverse effects in clinical trials. The most commonly reported side effect is mild gastrointestinal discomfort, which occurs in less than 5% of subjects. Rare allergic reactions are possible, particularly in individuals with known allergies to bee products, honey, or pollen. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include skin rashes, swelling, or respiratory issues. There are no significant drug interactions documented in randomized controlled trials. However, due to its potential to modulate immune responses and blood clotting, caution is advised for individuals on immunosuppressants or anticoagulants, though specific interactions are not well-established. Contraindications include a known allergy to bee products. Data on its safety in pregnant women and children are limited, therefore, caution and medical consultation are recommended for these special populations.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of Brazilian Propolis Water Extract, as observed in clinical trials, ranges from 300 mg to 900 mg per day of a standardized extract (e.g., EPP-AF®). For optimal clinical effects, a dosage of approximately 900 mg per day, administered for 4 to 12 weeks, is often recommended. There is no established maximum safe dose, but doses up to 900 mg/day have been well-tolerated in studies. The extract is typically administered orally, and it can be taken with or without food. It is important to note that water extract formulations may require higher doses compared to ethanol extracts due to potential differences in bioavailability of certain compounds. Adherence to recommended dosages and consultation with a healthcare professional are advised, especially when using for specific health conditions.
FAQs
Is Brazilian propolis water extract effective?
Yes, it is effective for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, supported by numerous randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses.
Is it safe to use?
Generally, it is considered safe with a low incidence of mild side effects. Allergic reactions are rare but possible, especially for those with bee product allergies.
How long does it take to see benefits?
Benefits typically become noticeable after several weeks to a few months of consistent supplementation, depending on the specific health indication.
Can it replace antibiotics or antivirals?
No, Brazilian propolis water extract is an adjunctive natural product and should not be used as a substitute for conventional medical therapies like antibiotics or antivirals.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2025.1542184/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs found that propolis supplementation significantly reduced markers of oxidative stress, inflammation, and renal damage in humans. The study highlights propolis's potential as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, with statistically significant weighted mean differences.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8588957/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs investigated the effects of propolis on metabolic parameters. It concluded that propolis significantly reduces AST levels, indicating potential benefits for liver health, though it found no consistent effects on lipid profiles or ALT.
- https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-023-43764-w – This high-quality, double-blind, placebo-controlled RCT involving 188 hospitalized COVID-19 patients demonstrated that a standardized Brazilian green propolis extract (EPP-AF®) significantly reduced the incidence of secondary infections. While it did not shorten hospital stay, the reduction in secondary infections was a notable clinical outcome.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12113167/ – This source discusses the broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity of Brazilian propolis. It highlights its efficacy against various bacteria, viruses, and fungi, supporting its traditional and clinical use as an antimicrobial agent.
- https://www.scielo.br/j/aabc/a/6ry7bgfQnVPKQPcZ8VBX6Bt/ – This research provides further evidence on the antimicrobial properties of Brazilian propolis. It details its effectiveness against different microbial strains, reinforcing its potential as a natural antimicrobial agent in various applications.