Propolis is a resin-like material made by bees from the buds of poplar and cone-bearing trees, mixed with saliva and beeswax, and exudate gathered from tree buds, sap flows, or other botanical sources. Bees use it to build hives, and it may contain beehive debris such as dead bees, wax, and pollen. Propolis is used as a sealant for unwanted open spaces in the beehive and has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries.

Propolis has been found to have antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It contains polyphenols, such as flavonoids, which are a type of antioxidant, as well as amino acids, vitamins A, C, and E, and minerals such as potassium and magnesium. Propolis seems to help fight against bacteria, viruses, and fungi, and it might also have anti-inflammatory effects and help skin heal.

Propolis is rarely available in its pure form and is usually obtained from beehives. People commonly use propolis for diabetes, cold sores, and swelling and sores inside the mouth. Its also used for burns, canker sores, genital herpes, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses. Propolis has been suggested to have a role in treating certain cancers as well, but few high-quality studies have proven its effectiveness as a treatment for specific conditions in humans.

When applied to the skin, propolis is possibly safe when used appropriately, but it can cause allergic reactions, especially in people who are allergic to other bee products. Propolis is possibly safe when taken by mouth while breastfeeding, but it is not recommended during pregnancy.

In summary, propolis is a resin-like material made by bees from the buds of poplar and cone-bearing trees, mixed with saliva and beeswax, and exudate gathered from tree buds, sap flows, or other botanical sources. It has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries and has antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, there is no good scientific evidence to support many of its uses, and it can cause allergic reactions in some people.