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Updated: Jun 19, 2026
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Extraction and Analysis of Taiwanese Green Propolis
Published on: January 7, 2019
The importance of propolis in patch testing--a multicentre survey.
Sanjay Rajpara1, Mark S Wilkinson, Claudah M King
1Dermatology Department, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, NHS Grampian, Aberdeen, UK. sanjay.rajpara@nhs.net
Contact Dermatitis
|November 3, 2009
Summary
Propolis allergy is increasingly common, affecting 1.9% of subjects. Cross-reactions with Myroxylon pereirae and colophonium are significant, but not with beeswax.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Allergology
- Contact Dermatitis
Background:
- Propolis is a common ingredient in natural cosmetics and remedies.
- Increasing incidence of propolis allergy is observed.
- Potential for cross-reactivity with fragrance mix I (FMII), colophonium, and Myroxylon pereirae exists.
Purpose of the Study:
- Determine the prevalence and clinical significance of propolis allergy.
- Evaluate cross-reactions between propolis and Myroxylon pereirae, colophonium, FMII, and beeswax.
Main Methods:
- Patch testing of 2,828 subjects across 10 UK centers with propolis and beeswax.
- Utilized British Contact Dermatology Society (BCDS) database and center surveys for data collection.
- Collected additional questionnaire data from 41 propolis-allergic subjects.
Main Results:
- Prevalence of propolis allergy was 1.9% (55/2828).
- Significant cross-reactivity observed with Myroxylon pereirae (40%) and colophonium (27.2%).
- Hands were the most common site of reaction, with cosmetics as the primary source; avoidance improved eczema in 8/12 subjects.
Conclusions:
- Propolis is a significant and increasingly frequent allergen.
- Inclusion of propolis in the BCDS baseline series is warranted.
- Cross-sensitivity to beeswax is uncommon.
