Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Propolis, a resinous substance produced by bees, has a long history of use in traditional medicine for oral and gum health, but its use is now also supported by emerging scientific evidence. Several in vitro and clinical studies have demonstrated that propolis possesses antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties, which are relevant to gum health. Propolis extracts have shown efficacy in inhibiting the growth of oral pathogens such as Streptococcus mutans and Porphyromonas gingivalis, which are implicated in periodontal disease and caries. Some randomized controlled trials have reported that mouthwashes or gels containing propolis can reduce gingival inflammation, plaque formation, and bleeding on probing compared to placebo or standard treatments. However, most studies are small, short-term, or have methodological limitations, and there is variability in the composition of commercial propolis products. While the evidence base is not yet robust enough to fully endorse propolis as a primary therapy for gum disease, current research does provide moderate support for its adjunctive use in promoting gum health and managing mild gingival inflammation. More large-scale, standardized clinical trials are needed to confirm these effects and determine optimal dosing and safety.

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