Baccharis dracunculifolia

BotanicalBest with a meal

What is it

Baccharis dracunculifolia is a Brazilian shrub commonly known as 'alecrim do campo.' It is the principal botanical source for green propolis, the resinous substance bees collect from its young leaves and shoots.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Antimicrobial and antioxidant effects (as green propolis)

Limited Evidence

Small human studies of Brazilian green propolis suggest antimicrobial effects on oral pathogens and modest reductions in oxidative stress markers.

How it works

The plant is rich in artepillin C, drupanin, and baccharin, prenylated phenolic compounds with antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory activity in laboratory and animal studies. These compounds are concentrated in Brazilian green propolis and underlie many of its claimed effects.

Dosage

No standardized supplement dose for the plant itself. Most products supply Brazilian green propolis extracts standardized to artepillin C, typically 100-500 mg/day.

When and how to take it

No formal timing guidance. Take with meals to ease gastrointestinal tolerability.

2 commercial forms

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Green propolis extract

Most common supplement format; standardized to artepillin C.

Polyphenol absorption is moderate

Dried plant or leaf extract

Alternative to propolis-based products.

Less standardized

Safety

Generally well tolerated. Allergic reactions to propolis (including contact dermatitis) are well documented, especially in people with bee product or balsam of Peru sensitivities.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in people with bee product or propolis allergies. Use caution in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to limited data.

Interactions

Limited interaction data. Propolis-containing products may have mild antiplatelet activity in vitro; discuss with clinician before surgery.

Frequently asked questions

Is Baccharis the same as propolis?⌄

Brazilian green propolis is bee resin collected mainly from Baccharis dracunculifolia. The plant itself is the botanical source.

Is it safe?⌄

Generally well tolerated. People allergic to propolis or bee products may react and should avoid use.

References

Baccharis dracunculifolia on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Baccharis dracunculifolia on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Baccharis dracunculifolia (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.