Design and Optimization of Bioactive Oral Disintegrating Films Containing <i>Apis mellifera</i> Propolis

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to develop and optimize orally disintegrating films (ODFs) incorporating an ethanolic extract of Apis mellifera propolis as a natural source of antioxidants. A mixture design was applied to evaluate the combined effect of propolis, essential oil, and polymers on the functional properties of the films. The extract exhibited a high content of phenolic compounds (318.15 ± 5.76 mg GAE/g) and flavonoids (644.82 ± 6.41 mg QE/g), along with strong antioxidant activity (DPPH 87.43%, ABTS 91.12%). The optimal formulation achieved a significant balance between mechanical properties (tensile strength 6.21 MPa, elongation 15.84%) and antioxidant activity, accomplishing a comprehensive improvement through propolis‐polymer interaction. The quadratic models obtained were significant ( R 2 &gt; 0.74). These results demonstrate the potential of propolis‐containing ODFs as functional polymeric materials for rapid release systems with bioactive properties.