Ingredient Animal — secretion (动物分泌物 dòng wù fēn mì wù)

Feng Jiao

Propolis · 蜂胶

Apis mellifera L. · Propolis

Feng Jiao (Propolis) plant

Images shown are for educational purposes only

Propolis is a resinous substance produced by honeybees that has been used for centuries in Chinese medicine, primarily for wound healing and skin repair when applied externally. Taken internally, it is used to support weakened constitutions, help manage blood sugar and cholesterol, and address premature aging. It was included in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia in 2005 and is widely available as a health supplement.

Category Substances for external application (外用药) Tonifying herbs (补虚药)
Therapeutic focus Blood Sugar Support Skin Health Cholesterol Management Immune Support Healthy Aging

TCM Properties

Temperature

Cold

Taste

Bitter (苦 kǔ), Acrid / Pungent (辛 xīn)

Channels entered

Spleen, Stomach

Parts used

Animal — secretion (动物分泌物 dòng wù fēn mì wù)

Educational content • Consult qualified TCM practitioners for diagnosis and treatment

What This Ingredient Does

Every ingredient has a specific set of actions — here's what Feng Jiao does in the body, explained in both everyday and TCM terms

Therapeutic focus

In practical terms, Feng Jiao is primarily used to support these areas of health:

Blood Sugar Support Skin Health Cholesterol Management Immune Support Healthy Aging

TCM Actions

In TCM terminology, these are the specific therapeutic actions that Feng Jiao performs to restore balance in the body:

Tonifies Deficiency and Strengthens the Body Transforms Turbidity and Lowers Lipids Lowers Blood Sugar Resolves Toxicity and Reduces Swelling Promotes Tissue Regeneration and Heals Sores Nourishes Blood and Moistens the Skin

How these actions work

'Tonifies weakness' means propolis helps strengthen a body that has become depleted or fatigued over time. It is used for people experiencing premature aging, chronic fatigue, and general debility, working primarily through the Spleen and Stomach to support the body's ability to absorb and produce vital substances.

'Resolves turbid lipids' refers to propolis's ability to help clear abnormal fats and lipids from the blood. In TCM terms, this relates to addressing turbid dampness or phlegm obstructing the middle burner and blood vessels. It is used for people with high cholesterol and lipid disorders.

'Stops wasting-thirst' addresses a TCM condition called Xiāo Kě (消渴), which overlaps with diabetes and similar metabolic conditions involving excessive thirst, frequent urination, and weight loss. Propolis's bitter, cold nature can help clear the Heat that drives this excessive fluid consumption.

'Clears toxins and reduces swelling' and 'Astringes and promotes tissue regeneration' describe propolis's powerful external applications. When applied to wounds, burns, cracked skin, or skin lesions, propolis acts as a natural antimicrobial barrier while encouraging new tissue growth. These are the most historically established uses of propolis in Chinese medicine.

Patterns Addressed

In TCM, symptoms cluster into recognizable patterns of disharmony. Feng Jiao is used to help correct these specific patterns.

Why Feng Jiao addresses this pattern

Propolis addresses Qi and Yin Deficiency through its ability to tonify weakness and nourish the body's depleted resources. Although it is cold in nature (which would seem to suggest a focus on clearing Heat), its primary Pharmacopoeia-listed action of 'tonifying weakness' (补虚弱) indicates support for the Spleen and Stomach's digestive and transformative functions. In Qi and Yin Deficiency, the Spleen's Qi is insufficient to properly generate fluids and nourish tissues, leading to fatigue, dry mouth, and poor appetite. The bitter taste descends and dries while the pungent taste disperses, helping to restore proper Qi circulation in the middle burner without creating further stagnation.

A practitioner would look for one or more of these signs

Eye Fatigue

Chronic fatigue and weakness

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth and excessive thirst

Poor Appetite

Reduced appetite

Premature Aging

Signs of premature aging

Commonly Used For

These are conditions where Feng Jiao is frequently used — but only when they arise from the specific patterns it addresses, not in all cases

Arises from: Wasting-Thirst (Xiao Ke) Qi and Yin Deficiency

TCM Interpretation

TCM understands diabetes primarily through the lens of Xiāo Kě (wasting-thirst), a condition involving the depletion of Yin fluids by pathological Heat. The condition is divided into upper, middle, and lower presentations depending on which organ system is most affected: the Lungs (excessive thirst), the Stomach (excessive hunger), or the Kidneys (excessive urination). Over time, both Qi and Yin become depleted, and the Spleen's ability to properly transform food and fluids deteriorates. The turbid dampness that results from poor Spleen function may also manifest as elevated blood lipids and metabolic dysfunction.

Why Feng Jiao Helps

Propolis addresses diabetes through several of its documented actions. Its Pharmacopoeia-listed function of 'stopping wasting-thirst' (止消渴) directly targets the Xiāo Kě pattern. Its cold nature helps clear the pathological Heat that is consuming Yin fluids, while its entry into the Spleen and Stomach channels supports the middle burner's role in metabolism and fluid regulation. The additional action of 'resolving turbid lipids' addresses the metabolic complications that often accompany diabetes. Modern research has shown that propolis may help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels, providing a biomedical parallel to these classical TCM actions.

Also commonly used for

High Cholesterol

Helps resolve turbid lipids in the blood

Mouth Ulcers

Applied topically or taken internally for oral sores

Stomach Cancer

Used internally for gastric mucosal protection

Skin Fissures

Applied externally for cracked skin

Warts

Applied topically to corns and warts

Psoriasis

Used topically for psoriasis and similar skin conditions

Herpes Zoster Infection

Applied externally for shingles lesions

Ingredient Properties

Every ingredient has an inherent temperature, taste, and affinity for specific channels — these properties determine how it interacts with the body

Temperature

Cold

Taste

Bitter (苦 kǔ), Acrid / Pungent (辛 xīn)

Channels Entered

Spleen Stomach

Parts Used

Animal — secretion (动物分泌物 dòng wù fēn mì wù)

Dosage & Preparation

These are general dosage guidelines for Feng Jiao — always follow your practitioner's recommendation, as dosages vary based on the formula and your individual condition

Standard dosage

0.2-0.6g

Maximum dosage

0.6g per day orally (Chinese Pharmacopoeia upper limit). External use as needed. Do not exceed without practitioner supervision.

Dosage notes

The standard internal dosage of 0.2-0.6g per day reflects processed propolis (ethanol-extracted, purified). Propolis is not typically used in traditional decoctions but rather taken as pills, capsules, tinctures, or dissolved in honey water. For oral use, it is best taken before meals for optimal absorption. For blood lipid management and blood sugar support, doses in the range of 0.3-0.5g daily are commonly used in clinical practice. For topical wound healing, burns, or skin fissures, an appropriate amount of propolis extract or ointment is applied directly to the affected area. Note that commercial propolis supplements (especially outside China) often use higher doses of 400-500mg of propolis extract daily, but the active compound concentration varies widely between products, making direct dose comparisons difficult.

Preparation

Propolis is not used in standard decoctions. It must first be processed through ethanol extraction to remove impurities (beeswax, heavy metals, microbial contaminants) and concentrate the bioactive resin fraction. The Chinese Pharmacopoeia specifies "Jiu Zhi Feng Jiao" (酒制蜂胶): propolis is crushed, dissolved in ethanol, filtered, the ethanol is recovered, and the product is air-dried. The resulting purified extract is then formulated into capsules, tinctures, tablets, or topical preparations. Raw propolis should never be taken internally.

Processing Methods

In TCM, the same ingredient can be prepared in different ways to change its effects — here's how processing alters what Feng Jiao does

Processing method

The raw propolis is crushed, then soaked and dissolved in ethanol (alcohol). The solution is filtered, the ethanol is recovered from the filtrate, and the residue is dried.

How it changes properties

Alcohol processing purifies propolis by removing beeswax, heavy metals, and other impurities while concentrating its bioactive compounds (flavonoids, phenolics). The thermal nature and taste remain largely the same (bitter, pungent, cold), but the processed form is safer for internal use because harmful contaminants are removed. The alcohol extraction increases the bioavailability of the active flavonoid compounds.

When to use this form

This is the standard processed form required for all internal use. Raw, unprocessed propolis should never be taken orally due to potential heavy metal contamination and impurities. The alcohol-processed form is used in capsules, tablets, and tinctures for treating wasting-thirst, high blood lipids, and general weakness.

Common Ingredient Pairs

These ingredients are traditionally combined with Feng Jiao for enhanced therapeutic effect

Xi Yang Shen
Xi Yang Shen 1:1 (equal parts by weight)

Propolis combined with Xī Yáng Shēn (American Ginseng) strengthens both Qi and Yin simultaneously. Propolis tonifies weakness and clears Heat in the Stomach, while Xī Yáng Shēn nourishes Qi and generates fluids without causing excess warmth. Together they address Qi and Yin Deficiency more effectively than either substance alone, and research suggests enhanced immune-modulating and anti-tumor effects.

When to use: For patients with chronic fatigue, depleted constitution, poor appetite, dry mouth, and general debility, particularly when there are signs of both Qi deficiency and Yin insufficiency.

Feng Mi
Feng Mi Propolis 0.2-0.6g dissolved or mixed into an appropriate amount of honey for internal use

Propolis paired with Fēng Mì (Honey) combines the anti-inflammatory, tissue-regenerating properties of propolis with honey's moistening, nourishing, and pain-relieving actions. Honey's sweet, neutral nature softens the bitterness and cold of propolis, making the combination gentler on the Stomach while enhancing wound healing and mucosal repair.

When to use: For internal use to soothe gastric and oral ulcers, or for external application to wounds, burns, and cracked skin. Also used when propolis is taken internally by patients who find its bitterness difficult to tolerate.

Comparable Ingredients

These ingredients have overlapping uses — here's how to tell them apart

Feng Mi
Feng Jiao vs Feng Mi

Both are bee products used to promote tissue healing, but they differ significantly in thermal nature and clinical focus. Fēng Mì (Honey) is sweet and neutral, primarily used to tonify the middle burner, moisten the Lungs, moisten the intestines, and moderate the properties of other herbs. Fēng Jiāo (Propolis) is bitter, pungent, and cold, with a stronger focus on clearing toxins, reducing swelling, and promoting tissue regeneration in wounds and skin conditions. Propolis also has the specific action of resolving turbid lipids and stopping wasting-thirst, which honey does not share.

Feng La
Feng Jiao vs Feng La

Both are products of the beehive. Fēng Là (Beeswax) is sweet, bland, and neutral, primarily used externally to generate flesh and stop pain, and internally to stop diarrhea and resolve toxins. Propolis has a broader range of TCM actions including tonifying weakness, resolving turbid lipids, and stopping wasting-thirst. Propolis contains far more bioactive compounds (over 300 identified) compared to beeswax, giving it stronger antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties for external wound care.

Identity & Adulterants

Related species and common adulterations to be aware of when sourcing Feng Jiao

The propolis market is prone to significant adulteration. Common issues include: 1. Tree gum adulteration: Cheap tree resins or industrial pine rosin may be mixed with genuine propolis to increase volume. These lack the characteristic bioactive flavonoids and have a distinctly different, unpleasant odor (described as "臭的树胶味" or foul rubber-tree smell) compared to authentic propolis's aromatic fragrance. 2. Excessive beeswax: Some raw propolis contains a disproportionately high wax content (above the normal 30%), diluting the active resin fraction. 3. Poplar bud extracts: Synthetic or semi-synthetic products made from poplar tree bud extracts may be sold as propolis. While poplar buds share some chemical overlap with propolis (since bees source from poplars), these extracts lack the enzymatic modifications from bee saliva. 4. Geographic misrepresentation: Chinese domestic propolis (brown/dark) may be sold as Brazilian green propolis, which commands a premium price. The two types have distinctly different colors, compositions, and marker compounds (artepillin C is characteristic of Brazilian green propolis but absent in Chinese propolis). Authenticity can be verified by checking for chrysin and galangin content (Chinese Pharmacopoeia markers), flavonoid profiles, and the ethanol-soluble extractive percentage.

Educational content — always consult a qualified healthcare provider or TCM practitioner before using any ingredient.

Toxicity Classification

Classical Chinese pharmacopoeia toxicity rating for Feng Jiao

Non-toxic

Propolis itself is generally regarded as non-toxic when properly processed and purified. The main safety concern is not intrinsic toxicity but allergic sensitization. Approximately 0.03% of users may develop allergic reactions of varying severity, from mild contact dermatitis to rare cases of laryngeal edema. Raw, unprocessed propolis (毛胶) can contain heavy metals (especially lead), microbial contaminants, and excess wax that make it unsafe for internal use. Proper extraction using ethanol or supercritical CO2 followed by filtration removes these contaminants. Only products that have undergone appropriate purification and quality testing should be consumed. The Chinese Pharmacopoeia specifies quality standards including limits on total ash content and minimum ethanol-soluble extractive content.

Contraindications

Situations where Feng Jiao should not be used or requires extra caution

Avoid

Known allergy to bee products (bee stings, honey, royal jelly, bee pollen). Propolis is a recognized contact sensitizer and can cause allergic reactions ranging from skin rashes to anaphylaxis in susceptible individuals.

Avoid

Pregnancy. Propolis may stimulate uterine contractions and interfere with normal fetal development. Safety during pregnancy has not been established.

Caution

Individuals with a history of atopic dermatitis or multiple allergies should use with caution, as propolis contains potent allergenic compounds including caffeic acid esters that can trigger contact sensitization.

Caution

Concurrent use with anticoagulant medications (especially warfarin). Propolis may alter coagulation parameters and affect the efficacy of blood-thinning drugs.

Caution

Patients scheduled for surgery should discontinue propolis at least 2 weeks prior, due to its potential effects on platelet aggregation and blood clotting.

Avoid

Children under 1 year of age. The bioactive components may affect the developing immune system in very young infants.

Avoid

Raw, unprocessed propolis should never be taken internally. It may contain heavy metals, wax impurities, and microbial contaminants. Only properly extracted and purified propolis products should be used.

Special Populations

Important considerations for pregnancy, breastfeeding, and pediatric use

Pregnancy

Contraindicated during pregnancy. Propolis has been reported to stimulate uterine contractions, which may increase the risk of miscarriage or premature labor. Additionally, its complex chemical composition (over 300 bioactive compounds) and potent immunomodulatory properties make its effects on fetal development unpredictable. No adequate safety studies in pregnant women have been conducted. The Chinese health authorities explicitly advise that pregnant women should not take propolis products.

Breastfeeding

Safety during breastfeeding has not been established. While propolis is generally considered non-toxic in adults, its complex chemical profile (including potent flavonoids, phenolic acids, and potential allergens like caffeic acid esters) raises concerns about transfer through breast milk. Propolis is a known sensitizer, and there is a theoretical risk of triggering allergic sensitization in nursing infants. It is generally recommended that breastfeeding mothers avoid propolis products, or use them only under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider.

Children

Children under 1 year of age should not take propolis, as the bioactive compounds may interfere with the normal development of the immature immune system. For older children, if external use is needed for skin conditions, propolis should be diluted before application due to the delicacy of children's skin. Oral propolis supplements are generally not recommended for children without specific clinical guidance. When used, doses should be substantially reduced from the adult range. The Chinese Pharmacopoeia standard adult dose is only 0.2-0.6g per day, and pediatric use should begin at the lower end with careful monitoring for any allergic response.

Drug Interactions

If you are taking pharmaceutical medications, be aware of these potential interactions with Feng Jiao

Warfarin (Coumadin) and other anticoagulants: Animal studies have demonstrated that propolis can alter the anticoagulant effects of warfarin, causing a decline in INR values when co-administered. This could potentially reduce warfarin's effectiveness and increase thromboembolic risk. Patients on warfarin or other vitamin K antagonists should avoid concurrent propolis use or have their INR closely monitored.

Antiplatelet drugs (aspirin, clopidogrel): Propolis contains flavonoids with in vitro antiplatelet activity, including inhibition of thromboxane A2 formation. Co-administration with antiplatelet medications could theoretically alter bleeding risk, though clinical evidence is limited.

Drugs metabolized by CYP450 enzymes: In vitro studies show propolis can inhibit several CYP450 enzymes. While pharmacokinetic studies suggest these effects may be clinically insignificant at normal doses due to low bioavailability, caution is warranted with drugs that have a narrow therapeutic index (e.g., certain chemotherapy agents, antiepileptics). Propolis has been shown in animal studies to prolong the half-life of enrofloxacin, suggesting it may slow the metabolism of some antibiotics.

Metformin and other antidiabetic drugs: Propolis has demonstrated blood glucose-lowering effects in clinical studies. Concurrent use with antidiabetic medications could potentially enhance hypoglycemic effects, requiring dose adjustment and blood sugar monitoring.

Dietary Advice

Foods and dietary considerations when taking Feng Jiao

When taking propolis internally for Spleen and Stomach support or blood lipid management, it is advisable to avoid excessive cold, raw, or greasy foods that could impair Spleen function and counteract the herb's effects. Propolis tincture can be mixed into warm water, milk, honey water, or juice to improve palatability and reduce its tendency to stick to cups. Avoid mixing with very hot liquids, as excessive heat may degrade some of the volatile aromatic compounds and heat-sensitive flavonoids.

Botanical Description

Physical characteristics and morphology of the Feng Jiao source animal

Feng Jiao (蜂胶, Propolis) is not a plant-derived herb but an animal-origin substance produced by honeybees, primarily the European honeybee (Apis mellifera L.) and the Chinese honeybee (Apis cerana). Worker bees collect resinous sap and exudates from the buds, bark, and wounds of various trees (especially poplars, birches, pines, and willows), then mix these with their own mandibular gland secretions, salivary enzymes, and beeswax to form a sticky, adhesive substance.

In the hive, propolis appears as a yellowish-brown to dark brown or blackish-brown mass with a glossy surface. It is brittle below 20°C but becomes soft and sticky above 30°C. It has a distinctive aromatic, resinous fragrance and a bitter taste with a pungent, slightly numbing sensation. Bees use propolis to seal cracks in the hive, coat interior surfaces, and embalm foreign objects too large to remove, taking advantage of its powerful antimicrobial properties to protect the colony from pathogens.

Sourcing & Harvesting

Where Feng Jiao is sourced, when it's harvested or collected, and how to assess quality

Harvesting season

Primarily collected during warm seasons (summer and autumn), scraped from beehive frames during routine hive inspections approximately every 10 days.

Primary growing regions

Propolis is produced wherever managed beehives exist, so it does not follow the traditional dao di yao cai (道地药材) concept in the same way as plant-based herbs. Its composition varies dramatically based on the local flora that bees forage from. In China, the main propolis-producing regions are in the north and northeast, where poplar, willow, and pine trees are the primary resin sources. Chinese propolis is typically brown to dark brown. Shandong, Hebei, Henan, Zhejiang, and the northeast provinces (Heilongjiang, Jilin, Liaoning) are major production areas. Internationally, Brazilian green propolis from Minas Gerais state is widely considered the highest quality, produced by Africanized honeybees foraging on Baccharis dracunculifolia (alecrim-do-campo). Other notable sources include Turkey, Australia, and Eastern Europe (Bulgaria, Romania).

Quality indicators

High-quality propolis (before processing) appears as compact lumps or irregular fragments in brownish-yellow, brownish-red, or dark brown color, with a glossy surface. It should have a strong, pleasant aromatic resinous fragrance. The taste should be distinctly bitter with a pungent, slightly numbing sensation. At room temperature (below 20°C), good propolis is hard and brittle, snapping cleanly when broken. Above 30°C it becomes soft and sticky. When chewed, it should not dissolve easily and should feel waxy yet resinous. For processed propolis products, the Chinese Pharmacopoeia requires a minimum of 50% ethanol-soluble extractives, chrysin content of at least 2.0%, and galangin content of at least 1.0%. Total ash should not exceed 8.0%. The flavonoid content is the primary quality marker: higher total flavonoid content (ideally above 15%) indicates superior quality. Color of the ethanol extract should be a clear golden-brown.

Classical Texts

Key passages from the classical Chinese medical texts that describe Feng Jiao and its therapeutic uses

Feng Jiao is a relatively modern addition to the TCM materia medica and does not appear extensively in the ancient classical texts. Its primary classical associations relate to the broader substance "Lu Feng Fang" (露蜂房, Wasp Nest), which is recorded in the Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing and contains propolis (tree resin) as a major component alongside beeswax and nest oils.

The modern Chinese Pharmacopoeia (中华人民共和国药典) formally codifies Feng Jiao with the following official indication:
Chinese: 「补虚弱，化浊脂，止消渴；外用解毒消肿，收敛生肌。用于体虚早衰，高脂血症，消渴；外治皮肤皲裂，烧烫伤。」
English: "Supplements weakness, resolves turbid lipids, stops wasting-thirst; used externally to resolve toxins, reduce swelling, astringe and generate flesh. Indicated for debility with premature aging, hyperlipidemia, and wasting-thirst syndrome; externally for cracked skin, burns and scalds."

The Dongbei Dongwu Yao (《东北动物药》, Medicines from Animals of the Northeast) notes:
Chinese: 「治恶性肿瘤和创伤有效。」
English: "Effective for treating malignant tumors and traumatic wounds."

Jiangxi Zhong Cao Yao Xue (江西《中草药学》) records:
Chinese: 「保护肉芽组织，利于伤口愈合，对皲裂亦有疗效。」
English: "Protects granulation tissue, promotes wound healing, and is also effective for skin fissures."

Historical Context

The history and evolution of Feng Jiao's use in Chinese medicine over the centuries

Unlike most TCM medicinals with origins in the classical texts, Feng Jiao's recognition as a distinct substance in Chinese medicine is relatively recent. The ancient texts referenced bee products primarily through "Lu Feng Fang" (wasp/bee nest), which contained propolis as one component. The separate identification and medicinal use of pure propolis (蜂胶) as its own drug category developed mainly in the 20th century, influenced by both traditional folk practices and modern pharmacological research.

Globally, propolis has a far more ancient pedigree. Ancient Egyptians used it for embalming mummies, recognizing its powerful preservative and antimicrobial properties. Greek and Roman physicians, including Hippocrates and Galen, employed it as a wound-healing agent and mouth disinfectant. The word "propolis" itself derives from Greek: pro ("in defense of") and polis ("city"), reflecting the bees' use of this substance to defend their hive city. The famous instrument maker Antonio Stradivari reportedly used propolis as an ingredient in his violin varnish.

In modern China, propolis gained prominence after its inclusion in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia, which formally established its TCM properties as bitter and acrid in taste, cold in nature, entering the Spleen and Stomach channels. It has become one of the most popular health supplements in China and worldwide, sometimes called "purple gold" (紫色黄金) because a colony of 50,000 to 60,000 bees produces only about 70 to 110 grams per year.

Modern Research

5 published studies investigating the pharmacological effects or clinical outcomes of Feng Jiao

1

Systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis: Propolis supplementation reduces inflammatory biomarkers (2024)

Gholami A, Dinarvand N, Hariri M. J Health Popul Nutr. 2024;43(1):119.

This meta-analysis of 16 randomized controlled trials found that propolis supplementation significantly reduced blood levels of three key inflammatory markers: interleukin-6, C-reactive protein, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha. The benefits were influenced by geographic origin of the propolis and dosage used.

2

Review: Propolis chemistry and pharmacological applications (2022)

Hossain R, et al. Chinese Medicine. 2022;17:100.

A comprehensive review published in Chinese Medicine journal summarizing the chemical composition and broad pharmacological activities of propolis, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, analgesic, and immunomodulatory effects. The authors noted that propolis composition varies significantly by geographic source and that more standardized clinical studies are needed.

3

Systematic review: Use of propolis for skin wound healing (2023)

Velho JCM, França TA, et al. Arch Dermatol Res. 2023;315(4):943-955.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of 43 studies examining propolis for cutaneous wound healing. The analysis found that propolis was effective in treating skin ulcers, promoting a higher percentage of healing compared to conventional interventions, with evidence that its anti-inflammatory and tissue-regenerating properties contribute to improved wound outcomes.

4

Drug-herb interaction review: Propolis and pharmaceutical drugs (2022)

PMC article, Front Pharmacol. 2022.

A review of pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic interactions between propolis and standard drugs. Propolis showed synergistic effects with certain chemotherapy drugs and antibiotics. While propolis inhibited some CYP450 enzymes in vitro, the effects were deemed clinically insignificant in humans due to low bioavailability of the active compounds. The review highlighted a potential interaction with warfarin warranting caution.

PubMed
5

Meta-analysis: Propolis effects on blood sugar, lipid metabolism, and inflammation in type 2 diabetes (2025)

Ma CX, et al. Front Nutr. 2025.

A meta-analysis of 12 RCTs involving 731 participants with type 2 diabetes. Propolis supplementation significantly increased HDL cholesterol, and reduced LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The findings support propolis as a beneficial adjunctive supplement for managing lipid abnormalities in diabetic patients.

PubMed

Research on individual TCM herbs is growing but still limited by Western clinical trial standards. These studies provide emerging evidence and should be considered alongside practitioner expertise.