STUDY ON METHODS FOR EXTRACTING PROPOLIS COLLECTED IN MOUNTAIN APIARIES

Bardha IBISHI, Viktor KOLOVSKI, Besnik XHEZAIRI, Vesna KARAPETKOVSKA – HRISTOVA

Abstract

Propolis (bee glue), a resinous substance that bees harvest from plants, has been used as a popular medicine for hundreds of years and is currently used in natural foods and a variety of pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Aim: This study aimed to develop a procedure for obtaining propolis extracts from raw propolis collected from two different regions. The procedure involved a step-by-step approach to ensure maximum extraction efficiency and the measurement of various physical parameters to evaluate the quality of the extracts. Method: In the period February - April 2023, suitable extracts were obtained from raw propolis of two different botanical origins collected in mountain apiaries in eastern Macedonia. Physical parameters: yields, dry matter, pH, and conductivity have been analyzed in propolis extracts. Two subsequent extractions (by three replicates) were made on the same samples to obtain initial knowledge on the achievement of the highest yield of a certain amount of propolis. Results: The results lead us to the conclusion that the two-stage extraction with a fresh solvent provides more total extracted dry matter. Conclusions: The findings emphasize the importance of standardized extraction protocols and further research to better understand the specific bioactive components and their potential health benefits in propolis extracts. Further testing should be performed to analyze the utilization and optimization of unsolved propolis solids.

Pages: 32 - 37