New Brazilian Propolis Studied

New propolis type from northeast Brazil: chemical composition, antioxidant activity and botanical origin

J Sci Food Agric. 2017 Jan 11

BACKGROUND:

Propolis is a bee product with wide diversity of biological activity. It has complex composition, which is dependent on its botanical source. The present work aimed at determining the chemical profile, antioxidant activity and botanical origin of two samples of a propolis type from two locations of the state of Rio Grande do Norte (RN, northeast Brazil).

RESULTS:

The standard chemical characteristics of the RN propolis are similar or superior to the internationally marketed Brazilian green propolis. RN propolis from two locations have high antioxidant activity, corresponding to 10% (municipality of Afonso Bezerra) and 13% (municipality of Alto do Rodrigues) of quercetin activity by the DPPH method and to 15% (both locations) by the β-carotene discoloration method. HPLC-DAD-MS/MS analyses revealed that most constituents of the RN propolis are flavonoids, mainly flavonols and chalcones. HPLC-DAD analysis of ethanol extracts revealed a great similarity between the chemical profile of RN propolis and shoot apices of "jurema-preta" (Mimosa tenuiflora, Leguminosae, Mimosoideae).

CONCLUSION:

"Jurema-preta" shoot apices are likely resin sources of RN propolis. The chemical characteristics and antioxidant property of RN propolis provide promising prospects for the introduction of this type of propolis into the apicultural market.