Spectroscopic Discrimination and Characterization of Bee Propolis from the Philippines

Abstract

Propolis or bee glue is gaining popularity in the market as a potential source of bioactive components that can be used in different health products. In this study, the ethanolic extracts of propolis samples from stingless bee (Tetragonula biroi Friese) colonies collected from Los Baños (in Laguna), Tayabas (in Quezon), and San Roque (in Albay) were characterized using various spectroscopic techniques such as absorbance, fluorescence, and infrared. Spectroscopic results showed differences in the chemical composition of the propolis samples. Infrared (IR) spectroscopy showed similarities and differences in terms of the functional groups present in the samples. Lastly, the phenol content of the ethanolic extracts was obtained using the FolinCiocalteu assay. Samples from Laguna yielded the highest phenolic content, followed by Albay and Quezon. Differences in chemical composition specifically in phenolic content will have an effect on the biological activities of the propolis extracts. The results of this study can be used as an initial screening for propolis samples for possible use in different health products.