Abstract
Two types of monofloral Malaysian honey (Gelam and Nenas) were analyzed to determine their antioxidant activities and total phenolic and flavonoid contents, with and without gamma irradiation. Our results showed that both types of honey can scavenge free radicals and exhibit high antioxidant-reducing power; however, Gelam honey exhibited higher antioxidant activity (p < 0.05) than Nenas honey, which is in good correlation (r = 0.9899) with its phenolic contents. Interestingly, we also noted that both irradiated honeys have higher antioxidant activities and total phenolic and flavonoid contents compared to nonirradiated honeys by Folin-Ciocalteu and UV-spectrophotometry methods, respectively. However, HPLC analysis for phenolic compounds showed insignificant increase between irradiated and nonirradiated honeys. The phenolic compounds such as: caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, ellagic acid, p- coumaric acid, quercetin and hesperetin as indicated by HPLC method were found to be higher in Gelam honey versus Nenas honey. In conclusion, irradiation of honey causes enhanced antioxidant activities and flavonoid compounds.
Highlights
Honey is a collection of nectar from many plants processed by honey bees
The reducing properties are associated with the presence of compounds, which exert their action by breaking the free radical chair through the donation of a hydrogen atom [21,22]
Ferric reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP) values of the two types of Malaysian honey dissolved in water or methanol in the concentration range of 0.1–0.4 g/mL are shown in (Table 1)
Summary
Honey is a collection of nectar from many plants processed by honey bees. This natural product is well known for its high nutritional and prophylactic medicinal value. Apitherapy (the medical use of honey bee products) has recently become the focus of attention as a form of folk and preventive medicine for treating certain conditions and diseases, as well as promoting overall health and well being [1]. Because some of these diseases are a consequence of oxidative damage, it seems that part of the therapeutic properties of honey is due to it antioxidant capacity [6]. Antioxidative protection against oxidation is thought to prevent some chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases and diabetes [7,8]
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