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Propolis is a resinous substance that bees produce by mixing plant resins with their own enzymes and wax. For centuries, it has been used in traditional medicine for its healing, protective, and strengthening properties. Today, modern science is uncovering how propolis can support healthy aging and help prevent or alleviate many conditions that become more common with age.
As we grow older, our bodies undergo a series of biological changes: cells lose efficiency, chronic inflammation increases, harmful molecules accumulate, and the body’s ability to clear out cellular debris declines. Propolis, rich in natural polyphenols and flavonoids, helps counteract these processes through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-supportive effects. These actions contribute to the prevention of age-related chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s.
Scientific studies have shown that propolis supports mitochondrial function—preserving the energy production vital for cellular health—and helps suppress low-grade, chronic inflammation (“inflammaging”), a key driver of many age-related diseases. It also promotes autophagy, the body’s natural process of clearing damaged proteins and organelles, helping to maintain tissue resilience and repair.
In the brain, propolis has been shown to improve memory and attention, protect neurons, and reduce neuroinflammation. In the cardiovascular system, it helps protect blood vessels from oxidative damage, and improves vascular function. Propolis also contributes to metabolic balance by regulating blood sugar and enhancing insulin sensitivity.
While both poplar and green propolis types have anti-aging effects, their strengths differ. Green propolis is especially effective in enhancing mitochondrial activity, energy metabolism, and cellular cleanup mechanisms. Poplar propolis shows stronger benefits in preserving cognitive function, modulating gene expression, and combating oxidative brain damage.
Comparative analysis of the biological properties of natural products ranks propolis as the top anti-aging natural product due to its broad action across all 12 scientifically recognized hallmarks of aging. Royal jelly—a fellow bee-derived product—ranks second, noted for its hormonal, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties.
What makes propolis especially noteworthy is its multi-targeted action. Unlike many supplements that act on a single system, propolis supports multiple organs and functions simultaneously—contributing to healthier brain, heart, immune, metabolic, and even skin health. This systems-wide approach is increasingly valued in aging research, where multifactorial strategies are needed to delay or prevent degenerative conditions.
This review is based on insights from 19 recent scientific publications, including multiple peer-reviewed reviews. The total number of the references, cited in these reviews is more than 2000. The evidence indicates that propolis is not only safe and well-tolerated, but also a promising agent for promoting longevity and reducing the burden of chronic disease. While it is not a substitute for healthy habits such as proper nutrition, physical activity, and sleep, it may be a powerful complement—enhancing the body’s resilience to aging stressors.
Revue Article:
Propolis: A Natural Remedy For Healthy Aging and Longevity
Contents
Subject Page
1. Introduction 3
2. The Hallmarks of Aging 4
3. Health Relevant Properties of Propolis 6
4. Propolis and the Hallmarks of Aging 7
5. Propolis and Age-Related Chronic Diseases 24
6. Challenges 29
8. Final Conclusions 29
9. Glossary 31
10. References 33
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