Analysis of Propolis Samples from Diverse Geographical Locations in Western Nigeria Using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry

Honeybee produce a complex resinous substance called propolis, this substance has shown promising biological activities and potential therapeutic applications. Thus, it is important to identify potential biomarkers that may be indicative of particular botanical sources or geographical origins by carrying out a comparative analysis of propolis samples collected from four diverse geographical locations in Western Nigeria (Ogun, Osun, Oyo, and Ondo states). Samples were extracted using ethanol and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GCMS) was employed to characterize the chemical composition of these samples, revealing significant variations across the different regions. The Ogun State sample was rich in phenolic compounds. In contrast, the samples from Osun and Oyo states exhibited a high abundance of triterpenoids, with β-Amyrone (99 %, 90%) and β-Amyrin (83 %, 86 %) respectively as major components while the sample from Ondo was rich in esters. Notably, n-hexadecanoic acid was identified in all four samples, suggesting its ubiquity in Western Nigerian propolis. N-hexadecanoic acid (palmitic acid) is a vital saturated fatty acid having a variety of biological functions in humans, insects, and animals. These compositional differences likely reflect the diverse flora available to bees in each region, highlighting the importance of geographical origin in determining propolis properties. Therefore, the observed chemical diversity suggests potential variations in biological activities and therapeutic applications of propolis from these different locations. This study provides valuable insights into the chemical signatures of Western Nigerian propolis, laying the groundwork for further investigations into their biological activities and potential applications in natural product development and therapeutics.