Propolis particles incorporated in aqueous formulations with enhanced antibacterial performance

Area of Science:

• Food Science
• Pharmaceutical Science
• Cosmetic Science

Background:

• Natural bioactives like propolis offer benefits but face challenges with stability and solubility.
• Limited industrial use of propolis is due to poor aqueous solubility and chemical instability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To enhance the antibacterial activity of propolis in aqueous formulations.
• To investigate methods for improving propolis' industrial applicability.

Main Methods:

• Propolis was extracted and formulated into sub-micron aqueous dispersions using ultrasonication.
• Particle characteristics (size, polydispersity, zeta potential) were analyzed post-production and after storage.
• Antibacterial effects on E. coli were assessed, alongside free radical scavenging activity and total phenol content.

Main Results:

• 15% propolis dispersions demonstrated a bactericidal effect on E. coli, dependent on sonication and exposure time.
• Shorter sonication times (4 min) led to more cell injury, while longer times (10 min) caused greater cell death.
• AFM imaging confirmed alterations in bacterial cell membranes, and longer sonication enhanced antioxidant properties.

Conclusions:

• Sonication effectively formulated propolis extract into sub-micron aqueous dispersions, enhancing antibacterial performance.
• A synergistic effect between the carrier and dispersed phases contributes to improved antibacterial activity.
• This formulation approach broadens the industrial applicability of propolis.