Origin and Chemical Variation of Brazilian Propolis

TLDR

Propolis, a hive product mainly composed of beeswax and plant-derived resins and volatiles, has been used as an antiseptic and wound healer since antiquity, and its green variant is rich in prenylated cinnamic acids and various terpenoids. The study finds that green propolis mainly originates from Baccharis dracunculifolia but exhibits wide chemical variation indicating additional resin plant sources, revealing plant‑derived constituents that would otherwise remain unknown.

Abstract

Propolis is a hive product containing chiefly beeswax and plant-derived substances such as resin and volatile compounds. Propolis has been used as an antiseptic and wound healer since ancient times and interest for the product has increased recently. Probably few plant species contribute as major resin sources. Green propolis derives mainly from vegetative apices of Baccharis dracunculifolia (alecrim plants). However, wide variation detected in the chemical composition suggests contributions from alternative resin plant sources. Predominant components of the resin of green propolis are cinnamic acids, chiefly compounds bearing prenyl groups. Terpenoid compounds, such as sesqui, di and pentacyclic triterpenoids, have been detected in many, but not all, samples investigated. Propolis research has uncovered potentialities of substances previously isolated from plants and has detected constituents of plant origin that would hardly be known otherwise.