Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Monofloral Honeys from Chile

Honey is a mixture of compounds produced by bees that has been appreciated by humanity since the creation of the oldest civilizations. It has multiple uses and can be a highly nutritional and healing substance. It has been used in traditional medicine as a natural alternative for the treatment of diverse clinical conditions. This is due to its reported bioactive properties. The objective of this article is to exhibit and analyze the biological properties of different types of honey originating from Chile based on their antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities, focusing primarily on recompiling experimental studies made on monofloral honey of plant species present in the Chilean territory. The result of this bibliographical review shows that Chilean honey possesses remarkable bioactive properties, mainly antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, with a few studies on its anti-inflammatory activity. Most of these results were attributed to monofloral honey belonging to ulmo (Eucryphia cordifolia) and quillay (Quillaja saponaria Molina) plant species. These properties are related to the presence of several bioactive components, such as phenolic components (mainly flavonoids), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), enzymes, proteins, and carbohydrates. The biodiversity of the flora and the environmental conditions of the Chilean territory are responsible for the wide range of bioactive compounds and biological properties found in Chilean honey. Further studies must be made to uncover the medicinal potential of these native honeys.

Automated summary

Honey is a highly appreciated mixture of compounds produced by bees, with multiple uses and potential nutritional and healing properties. This article focuses on the biological properties of different types of honey from Chile, specifically their antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. The review highlights the remarkable bioactive properties of Chilean honey, particularly its antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, with limited research on its anti-inflammatory effects. These properties are attributed to the presence of various bioactive components, such as phenolic compounds, hydrogen peroxide, enzymes, proteins, and carbohydrates. The biodiversity and environmental conditions of Chile contribute to the diverse bioactive compounds and biological properties found in Chilean honey. Further research is needed to explore the medicinal potential of these native honeys.