Brazilian Red Propolis Water Extract
Also known as: Brazilian Red Propolis, BRP
Overview
Brazilian Red Propolis (BRP) is a unique resinous substance collected by bees from specific plants, primarily Dalbergia ecastophyllum, native to Brazil. It is distinguished by its characteristic red color and a rich composition of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and isoflavonoids like formononetin. BRP is classified as a natural product extract and a botanical supplement, valued for its potential antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiparasitic properties. It is currently being investigated as a natural alternative or adjunct therapy, particularly against antibiotic-resistant bacteria and microbial biofilms. Research on BRP is emerging, with a growing body of in vitro and animal studies, though rigorous human clinical trials specifically on BRP water extract are still limited. The quality of evidence is moderate, with strong in vitro data and broader meta-analyses on propolis supporting its potential benefits.
Benefits
Brazilian Red Propolis (BRP) water extract demonstrates several evidence-based benefits, primarily in its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antiparasitic capacities. Its most potent effect is its **antimicrobial activity**, particularly against *Helicobacter pylori*. In vitro studies show BRP water extract can inhibit *H. pylori* biofilm formation at concentrations as low as 15.6 µg/mL and completely eradicate biofilms at 2000 µg/mL, achieving complete bacterial kill at 50 µg/mL within 24 hours. This suggests its potential as an adjunct therapy for gastrointestinal infections. Furthermore, propolis supplementation, including various types, has been shown in meta-analyses to significantly reduce **inflammatory markers** and **oxidative stress parameters**, indicating its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. BRP also exhibits strong **antiparasitic effects**, with in vitro studies demonstrating 100% mortality of *Schistosoma mansoni* adult worms at 25 µg/mL and inhibition of *Trichomonas vaginalis* and *Giardia duodenalis* trophozoites at IC50 values around 100–125 µg/mL. Secondary benefits include potential applications in oral health by inhibiting *Candida* biofilms and other oral pathogens. While in vitro effect sizes are substantial, clinical effect sizes and the time course of benefits in humans require further rigorous clinical trials.
How it works
Brazilian Red Propolis (BRP) exerts its effects primarily through the disruption of microbial biofilms and direct inhibition of microbial growth. Its bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, are believed to interact with bacterial cell walls and membranes, as well as enzymes crucial for biofilm formation. Beyond its antimicrobial actions, BRP modulates inflammatory signaling pathways within the host, contributing to its anti-inflammatory properties. Its antioxidant components help protect host tissues from oxidative damage. While specific molecular targets are still under investigation, BRP's multifaceted action allows it to combat pathogens and mitigate host inflammatory responses. Data on human absorption and bioavailability of BRP water extract are limited, but the efficacy observed in vitro suggests significant biological activity.
Side effects
Propolis, in general, is considered safe with low toxicity, but specific safety data for Brazilian Red Propolis (BRP) water extract in humans are limited. The most common side effect is the potential for **allergic reactions**, especially in individuals with known allergies to bee products or propolis. These reactions can range from mild skin irritation to, rarely, severe systemic reactions like anaphylaxis. Mild gastrointestinal discomfort has been reported by some propolis users. Due to its bioactive compounds, BRP may have potential interactions with certain medications, particularly **anticoagulants** (blood thinners) and **anti-inflammatory drugs**, though specific data for BRP water extract are lacking. Therefore, individuals on these medications should exercise caution and consult a healthcare professional. BRP is **contraindicated** in individuals with a known allergy to bee products or propolis. Caution is also advised for **pregnant or breastfeeding women** due to the limited safety data available for these specific populations.
Dosage
The optimal dosage for Brazilian Red Propolis (BRP) water extract in humans has not yet been established through clinical trials. In vitro studies have identified a minimum effective concentration against *H. pylori* biofilms at 15.6 µg/mL, with complete bacterial kill at 50 µg/mL. However, these concentrations are for laboratory settings and do not directly translate to human oral dosing. Currently, there are no defined optimal dosage ranges, maximum safe doses, or specific timing considerations for human use. The water extract form has been primarily used in research for its antimicrobial activity, and the extraction method significantly influences its composition and potential efficacy. Factors affecting absorption, such as consumption with food, are unknown for BRP water extract. No specific cofactors have been identified as necessary for its action. Clinical trials are urgently needed to determine safe and effective human dosing guidelines.
FAQs
Is Brazilian Red Propolis water extract effective against antibiotic-resistant bacteria?
In vitro evidence suggests it inhibits and eradicates *H. pylori* biofilms, including resistant strains, showing promise against antibiotic-resistant pathogens.
Can it be used as a standalone treatment?
Currently, evidence supports its use as an adjunctive therapy; no clinical trials confirm its efficacy as a standalone treatment for any condition.
Are there safety concerns?
Allergic reactions, especially in individuals sensitive to bee products, are the main concern. Otherwise, it is generally considered safe at tested doses, but human data are limited.
How fast does it work?
Antimicrobial effects have been observed within 24 hours in in vitro laboratory settings. Clinical onset of action in humans is not yet established.
Does it have anti-inflammatory effects?
Yes, propolis in general, including various types, has been shown in meta-analyses to reduce inflammatory markers, indicating its anti-inflammatory properties.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11350797/ – This in vitro study demonstrated that Brazilian Red Propolis water extract effectively inhibited and eradicated *Helicobacter pylori* biofilms at specific concentrations, achieving complete bacterial kill. The research highlights its potential as an antimicrobial agent against this pathogen, though it lacks clinical correlation.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2025.1542184/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis, encompassing various propolis types, found that propolis supplementation significantly reduced inflammatory and oxidative stress markers. The study provides strong evidence for the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits of propolis, though it is not exclusive to Brazilian Red Propolis.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12113167/ – This review, incorporating meta-analysis elements, summarized preclinical findings on Brazilian Red Propolis's antiparasitic activity. It showed BRP's potency against *Schistosoma mansoni*, *Trichomonas vaginalis*, and *Giardia duodenalis*, indicating its potential as an antiparasitic agent, primarily based on in vitro and animal studies.
- https://www.scielo.br/j/aabc/a/6ry7bgfQnVPKQPcZ8VBX6Bt/ – This systematic review focused on the antimicrobial activity of propolis, including Brazilian Red Propolis. It concluded that BRP inhibits biofilm formation of *Candida* species and other pathogens, attributing these effects to its flavonoid content. The review highlights the broad-spectrum antimicrobial potential, mostly from in vitro studies.