Propolis is naturally secreted by bees.
Propolis toothpaste is a toothpaste made from bee propolis, a substance made up of a mixture of resin, oils, beeswax and pollen. It is considered a natural way to clean teeth and keep gums healthy. While people who use it claim that it decreases the chance of cavities and tooth decay, some regulatory bodies disagree: The American Dental Association in the United States, for example, has not approved any brand of propolis toothpaste. Toothpaste should not be used by everyone; specifically, it should be avoided by people with certain allergies, people with asthma, and women who are pregnant or nursing.
People who suffer from asthma should avoid using propolis toothpaste.
In most cases, propolis toothpaste is mixed with several other ingredients besides bee propolis. For example, many brands of toothpaste contain a base of baking soda and water. In addition, other natural flavors are sometimes included. This can include peppermint, fennel, clove, grapefruit, or tea tree oil.
You can also add propolis to any store-bought toothpaste. For example, propolis can be purchased at health food stores in paste form. Store-bought toothpaste can be removed from the end of the tube and then mixed with the propolis. In some cases, it is possible to put the propolis-infused toothpaste back into the open end of the tube. In other cases, it may be necessary to keep the newly formulated toothpaste in a new, closed container.
Breastfeeding women should not use propolis toothpaste.
People who use propolis toothpaste believe that it can reduce the likelihood of cavities and tooth decay. As propolis is considered an anti-inflammatory agent, it is believed to reduce a form of gum disease called gingivitis, as well as inflammation of the bones and ligaments around the teeth, called periodontitis. Propolis toothpaste is also believed to act as an antibacterial. As a result, it prevents the growth of bacteria that can cause bad breath. At the very least, many people believe that it fights plaque buildup.
Propolis toothpaste should not be used by everyone. For example, people who are allergic to bee stings and their derivatives should avoid propolis-infused toothpastes; By its very nature, propolis contains bee pollen and traces of honey. People allergic to balsams, poplars and conifers should also avoid it. There are some reports of the product causing reactions in people who suffer from asthma, and caution is advised for pregnant or lactating women, as extensive research has not been done on the effects of propolis on infants.