Ethanolic extract of propolis from Indonesian stingless bee (Tetragonula biroi) is ineffective against ESBL-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae: An in vitro study and a brief review of propolis antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activity.

Abstract

The number of antimicrobial resistance which is increasing every year is a big problem that attracts attention. The prevalence of infections due to bacterial resistance is quite high, especially from nosocomial infections. This encourages the search for new materials that have the potential to fight resistant bacteria. Propolis is a product of bees that is not only used for structural support for their hives but also as an antiseptic to protect their hives from microorganisms. This study aims to determine whether the ethanolic extract of propolis (EEP) from the stingless bee Tetragonula biroi has an antibacterial effect against extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing Klebsiella pneumoniae. This study used the broth dilution test and agar-well diffusion test to test for antibacterial activity. EEP is generally inactive against ESBL-producing K. pneumoniae. It could not produce an inhibition zone in the agar-well diffusion test. The results of the dilution test for the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) are difficult to determine. Phytochemical qualitative test found EEP of T. biroi contains alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenols.