Assessment of Bioactive Antioxidants and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Apis cerana L. Honey from Thailand for the Enhancement of Human Health

Honey is renowned for its natural antioxidant properties, which help mitigate oxidative stress and lower the risk of diseases such as cardiovascular conditions, cancer, chronic inflammation, and immune dysfunction. This study investigated the antioxidant potential and bioactive compound profiles of 38 <i>Apis cerana</i> L. honey samples from Thailand and 2 Manuka honey samples using DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays, along with the evaluation of total phenolic and flavonoid contents. The antioxidant activities measured showed a wide range of IC₅₀ values, such as the DPPH assay, ranging from 1.59 ± 0.134 mg/L to 824.30 ± 0.64 mg/mL. Manuka honey exhibited the highest antioxidant activity. However, <i>Apis cerana</i> L. honey samples, such as sample no. 14, no. 16, and no. 20, showed comparable performance in the ABTS and FRAP. In addition, several samples of <i>Apis cerana</i> L. honey, such as no. 12, no. 14, and no. 21, also contain high levels of antioxidants, indicating that <i>Apis cerana</i> L. honey has potential as a health food. The results of this study indicate that Thai honey exhibits notable antioxidant capacity and contains significant levels of phenolic and flavonoid compounds, suggesting its potential as a natural dietary source for supporting oxidative stress management. These results indicate that some <i>Apis cerana</i> L. honey samples from Thailand have antioxidant properties comparable to Manuka honey. Although differences in floral origin, geographic origin, and bee species should be taken into account, Thai <i>Apis cerana</i> L. shows good potential as a natural source of beneficial bioactive compounds. This highlights its potential for use in functional foods and nutritional interventions targeting oxidative stress-related diseases.