Can daily supplementation with Comvita PFL propolis support immunity?

Propolis is a waxy-resinous mixture produced by bees containing beeswax, sap, and tree leaf and bud exudate. These antimicrobial properties have been associated with the high concentration of plant polyphenols within propolis. Research on both cell and animal models have shown that plant polyphenols have the capability to reduce inflammation. Furthermore, population studies have reported a strong inverse correlation between polyphenol-rich diets and the frequency and severity of reported inflammatory condition symptoms.

For centuries humans have used propolis as a natural or herbal remedy. Propolis is widely recognised for its healing properties, especially in wound care, as an antimicrobial agent, and as a natural immune function booster.

These applications are supported by clinical studies that have demonstrated the potent anti-inflammatory effects of propolis in human subjects.

In this study, we aim to investigate the immune benefit of daily supplementation with Comvita PFL propolis, a commercial propolis product through its effect on modulating immune cell responses following immune activation.

Volunteers will take Comvita PFL propolis and placebo capsules daily for two six-week periods, with a four-week gap between them. Additionally, participants are required to attend four trial days at our Palmerston North research site to provide blood samples. In total, the study spans 16 weeks.

The clinical study is now fully recruited and in progress; we are no longer seeking volunteers.

Comvita New Zealand funds and supplies the Comvita PFL propolis products for this study.

This study was approved by the Health & Disabilities Ethics Committees