Questions and Answers
Is Propolis an effective treatment for Arthritis pain? Is it expensive and effective?
Propolis (Bee Bread; Hive Dross) is a resinous substance found in beehives. There are various extracts available, but it's probably the Balsam you're referring to. Yes, it is expensive and has an anecdotal reputation for relieving sore arthritic joints (some folks get relief from wearing bracelets made out of pure copper!!). There was a review of its possible therapeutic value in a Belgium Journal in 1979 which I haven't seen , but the fact there hasn't been a rush to use it makes me suspect that nothing much of significance came out of it. Rheumatologists don't prescribe it. As a placebo, however, its cost and exotic source would favour some beneficial effect in susceptible individuals. Hope this helps.