Preliminary studies on different extracts of some honey bee products

The aim of present study was to compare the phytochemical composition of different extracts of bee pollen, propolis and honey and to analyse the best solvent for maximum phytochemicals extraction. These preliminary studies are significant in locating the pharmacological bioactive compounds in different extracts of bee products. The tests showed greater number of constituents present in bee pollen and propolis as compared to honey. The concentration of these bioactive constituents was greater in ethanolic extract of propolis and water extract of bee pollen and honey. Ethanolic extract of propolis showed higher concentration of tannins and glycosides. Bee pollen had more concentration of saponins, flavonoids and proteins in water extract. Reducing sugars and carbohydrates were present in larger amount in water extract of honey. These studies will be useful to select the best solvent for honey, pollen and propolis for various research purposes.