Physical Properties and Chemical Analysis of Iraqi Propolis

Abstract

Propolis is a complex resinous substance manufactured by honeybees (Apis mellifera L.) to mainly protect the hive against pathogens. Physical properties of Iraqi propolis from eight regions (Al-Sulaymania, Erbil, Dohuk, Nineveh, Kirkuk, Salah Al-Din, Diyala and Al-Anbar) were investigated. Chemical analysis was achieved by thin layer chromatography (TLC) technique using five of different mobile phases including Toluene: ethyl acetate: formic acid; Toluene: ethyl acetate: acetic acid; n-hexane: ethyl acetate: acetic acid; Petroleum ether: ethyl acetate: formic acid and n-hexane: ethyl acetate: formic acid. Functional groups of separated chemical compounds were detected by IR spectroscopy. Results revealed variations in color and texture of Iraqi propolis, while odor was ranged between midly aromatic to high aromatic resinous according to geographical origin. Chemical analysis showed availability of ten important bioactive compounds in Iraqi propolis: Flavanone, 3-Hydroxyflavone, Chrysin, Quercetin, Galangin, Apigenin, Kaempferol, O-coumaric acid, Caffeic acid and Ferulic acid.