摘要
Propolis is a resinous substance collected by honeybees from various plant sources.On account of its chemical composition,propolis possesses several biologi-cal and pharmacological properties.In recent years,many papers have provided information concerning its composi-tion.This review compiles data from most studies of propolis,focusing on the chemical composition of ethanol extracts of propolis(EEP),water extracts of propolis(WEP),and volatile oils from propolis(VOP).The characteristic compounds of EEP are polyphenols includ-ing flavonoids and related phenolic acids,and flavonoids are the most abundant and effective parts.They are considered to contribute more to the antibacterial,antiviral,and antioxidant effects than the other constituents.The main flavonoids in EEP are pinocembrin,galangin,chrysin,quercetin,kaempferol,and naringenin.The constituents reported to be in WEP include phenolic acids,caffeoylquinic acid,3-mono-O-caffeoylquinic acid,caffeic acid,flavonoids,etc.The propolis volatile compounds are benzyl alcohol,benzyl acetate,cinnamic alcohol,vanillin,eudensmol,cyclohexyl benzoate,and benzyl benzoate,which are responsible for several biological properties.As a natural mixture,propolis is widely used in medicine and cosmetics,as well as being a constituent of health foods.Since propolis has been used extensively,information on its composition is not only of interest to the academic field,but also to propolis users.
基金
This study was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.30700105)
the Culture Program for Young Scientists of Jiangxi Provincial Department of Science and Technology(No.S00590).
