Physicochemical evaluation of propolis produced by Apis mellifera collected from Northern India

This study evaluated the physical and qualitative properties of propolis samples collected from four states in Northern India: Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan. Equal quantities of propolis were processed for dewaxing and extract preparation using 70% ethanol. The dried extracts were stored at 4°C, and percent yields were calculated, showing significant regional variations: Himachal Pradesh (28%, 157.6 mg), Punjab (27%, 157.3 mg), Haryana (19.4%, 103 mg), and Rajasthan (25%, 144 mg). The wax content also varied: Himachal Pradesh (71.1 mg), Punjab (61.7 mg), Haryana (57.6 mg), and Rajasthan (55.6 mg). The extracts showed differences in pH, electrical conductivity, optical density, water solubility, absorption capacity, foam capacity, and stability. Notable values included pH (6.2-7.9), electrical conductivity (0.61-0.92 mS/cm), and foam stability (45.26 - 59.03%). Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of compounds such as steroids, polyphenolics, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, carbohydrates, proteins, resins, and coumarins. The Haryana sample exhibited higher contents of flavonoids, flavones, tannins, and coumarins. The chemical composition and bioactive compounds in propolis vary significantly by region and may influence its pharmacological properties and applications.