Potential and Performance of Accelerated Solvent Extraction (ASE) in Obtaining Bioactive Compounds from Bee Propolis as Compared with Other Extraction Methods

Elmer-Rico E. Mojica (Pace University)
Jozlyn M Charland (Department of Chemistry and Physical Sciences, Pace University, New York 10038, United States)
Custer C Deocaris (Technological Institute of the Philippines, Cubao, Quezon City, Philippines)
Jose Rene L Micor (Institute of Chemistry, University of Philippines Los Banos, College, Laguna 4031 PhilippinesInstitute of Chemistry, University of Philippines Los Banos, College, Laguna 4031 Philippines)

Journal of Tropical Life Science : International Journal of Theoretical, Experimental, and Applied Life Sciences
Vol. 11 No. 2 (2021)

Propolis is a natural resinous substance collected by honeybees from buds and exudates of trees. The material has attracted much attention in recent years as a functional food component since it possesses various biological properties, including antimicrobial, antioxidative, and anti-ulcer properties. In this study, the performance of accelerated solvent extraction (ASE) was assessed and compared with varying methods of extraction: soaking (maceration), ultrasonication, and microwave-assisted methods. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and other spectroscopic techniques, such as absorbance and fluorescence, were employed to assess the efficiency in the extraction of natural products. The antioxidant activity and phenolic content of the different extracts were also determined. Results showed samples obtained from the microwave method showed the highest yield. Some issues and recommendations on the application of ASE for extracting natural products from bee propolis were discussed.