Propolis is the generic name of a resinous substances, which are gummy and balsamic that is collected by bees from flowers, buds and exudates of plants. This substance has been studied by many researchers due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Biological properties of Propolis are related to chemical composition that varies in their structure and concentration depending on the region of production, availability of plant sources, genetic variability of the queen bee, the technique used for the production and seasonality. The aim of this study was to evaluate the chemical composition and correlate with antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of propolis.
Samples were collected from two different apiaries of São Paulo and evaluated in terms of total phenolic content, total flavonoid and chemical composition by RP-HPLC, antioxidant capacity and antimicrobial activity. The mean values obtained from triplicate were tested using Pearson correlation with 95% confidence. Results analyzed showed significant positive correlation between the values of antioxidant capacity and phenolics while antimicrobial activity showed no correlation with total phenolic On the other hand, total flavonoids contents did not exhibit correlation with antioxidant and antimicrobial activity. However, Artepelin C demonstrated significant positive correlation with antioxidant and antimicrobial activity. Indeed, antioxidant and antimicrobial activity are proportional to phenolic compounds concentration such as Artepelin C, but there is no correlation with the total flavonoids contents.