Athlete’s Foot is a fungal infection affecting a large portion of the population: Scientists are now investigating propolis as a potential treatment and preventive measure for fungal infections such as athlete’s foot. Here is what current research indicates, and where it may be heading.
What is Athlete’s Foot?
Athlete’s foot, or tinea pedis, is a superficial fungal infection of the feet caused primarily by Trichophyton species. The fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, particularly inside tight or non-breathable footwear and synthetic sports socks. The condition affects an estimated 3% of the global population at any given time. It is more common in adults, especially men, due to increased perspiration and prolonged use of enclosed footwear. While often mild, Athlete’s Foot can lead to cracked skin. In more severe cases it can lead to secondary bacterial infections—particularly in individuals with diabetes or poor circulation.
Propolis Antifungal Properties
Propolis is a highly antimicrobial substance made by honeybees from plant resins. It forms the bees’ communal immune system as their first line of defence against harmful microbes. One of the first medicines known to humans, propolis has supported health for thousands of years. It is now gaining recognition in medical research as a possible treatment for many common ailments, including Mouth Ulcers, Ear Infections, Warts, Cold Sores and more. Propolis is composed of a diverse range of bioactive plant compounds. Notably flavonoids and phenolic acids, which are responsible for its broad antimicrobial profile. These substances interfere with fungal cell membranes, limit microbial growth, and help moderate inflammation in the surrounding tissue.
Propolis as Treatment for Athlete’s Foot – Scientific Studies
Laboratory studies have shown that ethanolic extracts of propolis inhibit the growth of Trichophyton species. Newer formulations—such as gels containing approximately 16% propolis—demonstrate enhanced antifungal activity and better skin adherence. Clinical research remains limited but promising. A randomised controlled trial conducted in Turkey in 2025 reported greater physician-rated improvement in participants using a topical propolis preparation compared with those receiving a placebo. Smaller studies using Brazilian green propolis have reported similar benefits, including reduced symptoms and faster recovery.
Anecdotal use of propolis preparations is widespread. Many individuals apply propolis creams or tinctures to affected areas and reporting improvement in itching and scaling. While such accounts are subjective and cannot substitute for controlled evidence, they align with emerging clinical observations. These observations suggest that propolis may help reduce inflammation and inhibit fungal growth. Conventional antifungal agents such as terbinafine and clotrimazole remain the recommended first-line treatments for athlete’s foot. Although propolis is not yet included in clinical guidelines, ongoing research continues to strengthen the evidence for its antifungal and skin-repairing properties.
What is ahead for Propolis as Treatment for Athlete’s Foot?
As standardised extracts and well-designed topical formulations become more widely available, propolis may emerge as a recognised adjunct therapy for athlete’s foot. Offering a natural, well-tolerated option alongside conventional treatments. Patch testing is advisable before use, as propolis can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This post is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Do not use bee products if you are allergic to them. Consult a healthcare professional for persistent or serious conditions.
Are you interested in natural wellness and healing? You’ll love my weekly newsletter. It’s filled with trusted insights into honey, propolis, beeswax and pollen, and how they support everyday health and wellbeing. Sign up here and enjoy 10% off your next order as a welcome bonus: https://hannasbees.ie/newsletter
Hanna Bäckmo
Hanna Bäckmo is an award-winning beekeeper, entrepreneur, hobby gardener and internationally published writer. Originally from a small island in Sweden, she now lives in East Cork with her son, two dogs, a flock of rescue chickens and lots of bees. Hanna is the founder of Hanna’s Bees, producing a unique range of natural and sustainable honey, propolis, and beeswax products sold in Ireland’s leading Gift & Artisan food stores and select US outlets. With 70 colonies of Native Irish honeybees, she is a passionate bee-advocate and educator and is an Ambassador for the Native Irish Honeybee.
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Making your own beeswax beard balm is surprisingly simple. You need only three basic ingredients: beeswax for structure and light hold, shea butter for softness, and a liquid oil such as jojoba to condition the beard and the skin underneath.
Transform your skincare routine with natural granulated honey scrub. Discover its exfoliating power and nourishing benefits for glowing skin. Step-by-step guide.
Athlete’s Foot Treatment with Propolis
Athlete’s Foot is a fungal infection affecting a large portion of the population: Scientists are now investigating propolis as a potential treatment and preventive measure for fungal infections such as athlete’s foot. Here is what current research indicates, and where it may be heading.
What is Athlete’s Foot?
Athlete’s foot, or tinea pedis, is a superficial fungal infection of the feet caused primarily by Trichophyton species. The fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, particularly inside tight or non-breathable footwear and synthetic sports socks. The condition affects an estimated 3% of the global population at any given time. It is more common in adults, especially men, due to increased perspiration and prolonged use of enclosed footwear. While often mild, Athlete’s Foot can lead to cracked skin. In more severe cases it can lead to secondary bacterial infections—particularly in individuals with diabetes or poor circulation.
Propolis Antifungal Properties
Propolis is a highly antimicrobial substance made by honeybees from plant resins. It forms the bees’ communal immune system as their first line of defence against harmful microbes. One of the first medicines known to humans, propolis has supported health for thousands of years. It is now gaining recognition in medical research as a possible treatment for many common ailments, including Mouth Ulcers, Ear Infections, Warts, Cold Sores and more. Propolis is composed of a diverse range of bioactive plant compounds. Notably flavonoids and phenolic acids, which are responsible for its broad antimicrobial profile. These substances interfere with fungal cell membranes, limit microbial growth, and help moderate inflammation in the surrounding tissue.
Propolis as Treatment for Athlete’s Foot – Scientific Studies
Laboratory studies have shown that ethanolic extracts of propolis inhibit the growth of Trichophyton species. Newer formulations—such as gels containing approximately 16% propolis—demonstrate enhanced antifungal activity and better skin adherence. Clinical research remains limited but promising. A randomised controlled trial conducted in Turkey in 2025 reported greater physician-rated improvement in participants using a topical propolis preparation compared with those receiving a placebo. Smaller studies using Brazilian green propolis have reported similar benefits, including reduced symptoms and faster recovery.
Anecdotal use of propolis preparations is widespread. Many individuals apply propolis creams or tinctures to affected areas and reporting improvement in itching and scaling. While such accounts are subjective and cannot substitute for controlled evidence, they align with emerging clinical observations. These observations suggest that propolis may help reduce inflammation and inhibit fungal growth. Conventional antifungal agents such as terbinafine and clotrimazole remain the recommended first-line treatments for athlete’s foot. Although propolis is not yet included in clinical guidelines, ongoing research continues to strengthen the evidence for its antifungal and skin-repairing properties.
What is ahead for Propolis as Treatment for Athlete’s Foot?
As standardised extracts and well-designed topical formulations become more widely available, propolis may emerge as a recognised adjunct therapy for athlete’s foot. Offering a natural, well-tolerated option alongside conventional treatments. Patch testing is advisable before use, as propolis can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This post is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Do not use bee products if you are allergic to them. Consult a healthcare professional for persistent or serious conditions.
Are you interested in natural wellness and healing? You’ll love my weekly newsletter. It’s filled with trusted insights into honey, propolis, beeswax and pollen, and how they support everyday health and wellbeing. Sign up here and enjoy 10% off your next order as a welcome bonus: https://hannasbees.ie/newsletter
Hanna Bäckmo
Curious about the world of bees and honey? Join our newsletter to learn something new each week.
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