Standardizing the analysis of phenolic profile in propolis

The analysis of propolis is controversial, hampering the comparison of its biological properties and estimation of its commercial value. This work evaluates the effectiveness of combining maceration and ultrasonication extraction techniques on the yield, total phenol content (Folin-Ciocalteau) and the specific phenolic compounds (HPLC-UV), on propolis from different origins. The extraction method was not significant in any case; therefore ultrasonication is recommended (time-saving) but only when a double extraction is performed. Propolis yield varies significantly between samples, as it includes impurities, consequently the results should be expressed considering the yield (as balsam) instead of raw propolis. Of the 13 quantified phenolic compounds, CAPE and pinocembrin (803 and 701 mg/g balsam) stand out. The phenolic profile of a propolis must be fixed using both total phenol content (with a consensus reference compound) and the specific phenolic compounds, since the latter provides information about compounds that can play a significant antioxidant role.