PHYSICO-CHEMICAL ANALYSIS AND HEAVY METALS IN SALVADORAN PROPOLIS
PHYSICO-CHEMICAL ANALYSIS AND HEAVY METALS IN SALVADORAN PROPOLIS
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.153122420099
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Palavras-chave: Propolis, cadmium, lead, heavy metals, physicochemical analysis.
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Keywords: Propolis, cadmium, lead, heavy metals, physicochemical analysis.
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Abstract:
Propolis are natural products made by bees from plant resins. They have been traditionally valued for their potential therapeutic benefits, including antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The objective of this study is to evaluate the physicochemical quality and safety of propolis from El Salvador, with a focus on the detection and quantification of heavy metals, specifically lead and cadmium, known to have adverse effects on human health. The methodology used for the determination of physicochemical parameters includes traditional gravimetric techniques and to evaluate the presence of lead and cadmium, atomic absorption spectroscopy was used. As results, all samples analyzed were found to be within the limits allowed by Salvadoran standard NSO 65.19.02:03 for moisture, ash and mechanical impurities, lead and cadmium. However, out-of-specification results were observed in three samples in the ethanol solubility test and in two samples for wax content.
In conclusion, this study underlines the importance of good quality propolis from Chilanga, Morazán and Los Naranjos Sonsonate. In addition, it corroborates the compliance of not exceeding the limits of lead and cadmium of all the analyzed propolis; providing relevant data for the regulation and safe use of these products in medicinal and cosmetic applications in El Salvador.
- David Francisco Torres Romero
- Thania Gissella Benítez López
- Freddy Alexander Carranza
- German Román Méndez Ramírez
- Luis Ascencio León