Vol. 10, Issue 10 (2021)

Author(s):
Lad Sunaina Sunil, S Vignesh and R Meenatchi

Abstract:
Honey bee collect propolis, which is a complex resinous substance. Its chemical composition and biological properties vary based on the geographical region, climate, bee species and plant source. The present study investigates the physicochemical properties and antimicrobial activity of Indian propolis obtained from two different regions: Jammu Kashmir (JKP) and Rajasthan (RP). The propolis samples were analyzed for their moisture, ash, crude fat, wax, water activity and color. Furthermore, antimicrobial activities of propolis samples were investigated by agar well diffusion method against bacteria: Salmonella spp, Pseudomonas spp, Bacillus cereus and fungus (mold): Aspergillus niger. The physicochemical properties such as moisture content, crude fat and water activity of crude propolis samples varied significantly (p<0.05) and showed highest moisture content (3.14 %) and water activity (0.73%) in JKP sample. Whereas, RP sample resulted had more crude fat (56.9%).The ash and wax content for both propolis ranged from 4.53-4.89% and 20.07-22.96% respectively. All propolis extract showed antimicrobial activity. The inhibitory zones against different microorganism were Salmonella spp (13 to 19 mm), Pseudomonas (9 to 11 mm), Bacillus cereus (9 to 15 mm) and Aspergillus niger (12 to 21 mm).