Comparative Evaluation of Bioactive Compounds in Semarang Propolis Extracted with Water and Ethanol: Composition and Efficiency Analysis

Propolis, a resinous substance produced by bees, possesses significant bioactive properties influenced by its chemical composition and extraction method. This study compares the bioactive compounds and osteoblast cell viability effects of Semarang propolis extracted using water and ethanol. Aqueous and ethanol extractions were performed to analyze the chemical composition of propolis. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used to identify bioactive compounds, while X-ray fluorescence (XRF) determined the mineral content. Flavonoid content was assessed using UV-Vis spectrophotometry, and vitamin levels were quantified. Osteoblast cell viability was evaluated using MTT assays on MC3T3-E1 cells. GC-MS analysis revealed that ethanol extraction yielded a wider range of bioactive compounds, including ethyl oleate (28.0%) and benzene derivatives, whereas aqueous extraction provided n-hexadecanoic acid. XRF analysis showed distinct mineral compositions, with calcium levels of 34.0% in ethanol extracts and 45.0% in aqueous extracts. Flavonoid content was significantly higher in ethanol extracts (36 mgQE/g) compared to aqueous extracts (3.8 mgQE/g). Ethanol extracts also contained higher levels of vitamins C (112.95 μg/g), E (31.39 μg/g), and B12 (0.316 μg/g). MTT assays demonstrated that ethanol extracts enhanced osteoblast viability in a dose-dependent manner, with the highest concentration (P1000, 1000 μg/mL) significantly improving cell viability. Ethanol is a more effective solvent for extracting bioactive compounds from Semarang propolis, yielding superior chemical composition and biological activity. These findings highlight the potential of ethanol- extracted Semarang propolis in pharmacology and bone tissue engineering.