Why is the tincture made with alcohol, and what does that mean in practice?

Ethanol is one of the most effective solvents for extracting active substances from propolis: flavonoids, phenolic compounds and aromatic resins. The alcohol-based form also keeps the product stable during storage. That is why most traditional propolis tinctures are alcohol-based.

In practice, this means several things. First, the product has a high alcohol content, as stated in its specifications. If you avoid alcohol for medical, religious or personal reasons, consider a different form of propolis supplement (for example, capsules or a water-based extract).

Second, during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for children, alcohol-based forms need to be discussed separately with a specialist, however small the single dose.

Third, the tincture is not usually taken neat: it is added to a small amount of water or another liquid. This is standard practice for alcohol-based tinctures and helps to reduce the intensity of the taste and irritation of the mucous membranes.