Bees create propolis, a glue-like substance, using tree resin, sap and their enzymes to seal and protect their hives. Traditional herbal remedies have long included propolis for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and healing properties. In oral care, it has been shown to help reduce plaque, soothe gums and prevent infections naturally.

A 2024 Malaysian clinical trial published in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies compared the effectiveness of chlorhexidine-based mouthwash to propolis-based herbal mouthwash in reducing plaque and gingivitis. While chlorhexidine, a synthetic chemical, is effective at killing bacteria and reducing plaque and gum inflammation, it can stain teeth, alter taste or irritate the mouth.

The study divided 45 adults with chronic gingivitis into three mouthwash groups: propolis, chlorhexidine or a placebo. Participants used each mouthwash for multiple 21-day phases, with a 15-day washout period in between. Dental plaque and gum inflammation were measured at the trial’s start and after each 21-day phase. Results showed that the propolis mouthwash achieved the greatest reductions in both plaque and gingival inflammation, outperforming chlorhexidine and the placebo.