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Extraction and Analysis of Taiwanese Green Propolis
Published on: January 7, 2019
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Pilot-scale extraction of bioactive compounds from propolis by subcritical solvent extraction
Seung-Wook Baek1, JinKyoung Lee2, Min-Jung Ko1
1Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, Global K-Food Research Center, Hankyong National University, Anseong-Si, 17579 South Korea.
Food Science and Biotechnology
|March 2, 2026
Summary
Subcritical solvent extraction (SSE) using 40% ethanol efficiently extracts bioactive compounds from propolis. This pilot-scale method is eco-friendly, cost-effective, and improves yield compared to traditional techniques.
Area of Science:
- Natural Products Chemistry
- Green Extraction Technologies
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Propolis is a resinous mixture that bees produce, known for its rich bioactive compounds with therapeutic potential.
- Traditional extraction methods often involve harsh solvents and prolonged processing times, impacting efficiency and environmental sustainability.
- Optimizing extraction techniques is crucial for maximizing the yield and preserving the bioactivity of propolis compounds.
Purpose of the Study:
- To optimize pilot-scale subcritical solvent extraction (SSE) conditions for extracting bioactive compounds from propolis.
- To determine the most effective solvent and extraction parameters (temperature, time) for key compounds like galangin and chrysin.
- To evaluate the antioxidant activity and compare SSE with conventional extraction methods.
Main Methods:
- Subcritical solvent extraction (SSE) was employed at a pilot scale.
- Extractions were performed using varying temperatures and times with 40% ethanol as the optimal solvent.
- Concentrations of galangin, chrysin, total phenolics, and total flavonoids were analyzed.
- Antioxidant activities were assessed under different extraction conditions.
Main Results:
- 40% ethanol was identified as the most effective solvent for propolis extraction.
- Optimal conditions were determined: 190°C for 20 min for galangin, 190°C for 10 min for chrysin, and 210°C for 10 min for total phenolics and flavonoids.
- Highest antioxidant activities were observed at 210°C for 15 min and 200°C for 20 min.
- SSE demonstrated reduced ethanol usage, enhanced extraction efficiency, and shorter processing times compared to conventional methods.
Conclusions:
- Pilot-scale SSE is a sustainable, cost-effective, and efficient method for extracting bioactive compounds from propolis.
- The optimized SSE parameters allow for targeted extraction of specific compounds and maximize overall bioactivity.
- SSE offers significant advantages for industrial applications, promoting green chemistry principles and improving product yield.
