Liquid Propolis Extract Standardization With PEG-Lecithin Solvent
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing propolis extraction methods using ethanol-based solvents are not suitable for all demographics, and ethanol-based extracts have inconsistent and high beeswax content, leading to difficulties in producing standardized pharmaceutical and cosmetic products with known active substance compositions.
Innovation Solution
A chemoselective extraction process using a solvent mixture of polyethylene glycol and lecithin, specifically PEG 400 with 0.1-3.5% lecithin, enhances the extraction of key propolis compounds like p-coumaric acid, trans-ferulic acid, caffeic acid, and 2-phenylethyl 3,4-dihydroxy-trans-cinnamate, followed by HPLC analysis and standardization to achieve a consistent liquid extract.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If ethanol-based solvents are used for propolis extraction, then extraction efficiency is improved, but safety and suitability for vulnerable populations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical composition parameters of the extraction solvent from ethanol-based to a water-based system containing glycerol (30-70% w/v), propylene glycol (10-40% w/v), and lecithin (0.1-5% w/v). This parameter change maintains extraction efficiency while eliminating the harmful effects of ethanol, making the extract safe for children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and other vulnerable populations.
2Speed
If ethanol-based extraction is used, then extraction speed is improved, but manufacturing precision of standardized products deteriorates due to inconsistent beeswax content
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces lecithin as an intermediary substance in the extraction solvent system. Lecithin acts as a emulsifier and solubilizing agent that mediates between the propolis components (including beeswax) and the aqueous solvent system. This intermediary substance enables consistent extraction of active compounds while controlling beeswax dissolution, thereby achieving manufacturing precision and standardized active substance composition without sacrificing extraction speed.
3Quantity of substance
If high beeswax content extract is produced, then extraction yield is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates due to disaggregation during mixing with water
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a composite extraction solvent system combining glycerol, propylene glycol, and lecithin in specific proportions. This composite material approach leverages the synergistic effects of each component: glycerol and propylene glycol provide solubility and stability, while lecithin provides emulsifying properties. The resulting extract contains beeswax in a stabilized composite matrix that remains uniformly mixed with water during pharmaceutical manufacturing, eliminating disaggregation issues while maintaining high beeswax content.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The process yields a standardized propolis extract with high concentrations of active substances, suitable for pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and agrochemical applications, demonstrating enhanced efficacy in treating inflammatory and infectious diseases, as well as providing antimicrobial and antioxidant benefits.
Implementation Method 1
A chemoselective extraction process using a solvent mixture of polyethylene glycol and lecithin, specifically PEG 400 with 0.1-3.5% lecithin, enhances the extraction of key propolis compounds
Implementation Method 2
The use of surface-active agents as components of the extraction solvent (ES), which include lecithins, is generally known in the prior art
Implementation Method 3
followed by HPLC analysis and standardization to achieve a consistent liquid extract
Data Source
AI summary
A novel standardized liquid propolis extract and pharmaceutical formulation based on said extract, as well as their manufacturing methods and uses, are provided. The liquid extract is produced by extraction of crude propolis with an extraction solvent based on a mixture of PEG 200-600 (96.5-99.9% w/w) and lecithins (0.1-3.5% w/w). The extract is characterized with standardized content of p-coumaric acid (1), trans-ferulic acid (2), caffeic acid (3), and CAPE (4). It is used as an active ingredient in manufacturing of pharmaceutical, cosmetic, veterinary, agrochemical or functional food products. The pharmaceutical formulation according to the invention consists of 5-95% w/w of the said propolis extract and up to 100% excipients required for preparation of various dosage forms. It is used for treatment of diseases and conditions in humans and animals such as: inflammatory diseases, bacterial and fungal infections, viral, autoimmune and cancer diseases, and for the treatment of burns and wound healing.