Conclusion
The physicochemical analytical results of stingless bee honey samples
have revealed many similarities to other previously reports and
differences from the international standard of A. mellifera honey. In
particular, stingless bee honey from this study exhibited higher values
of moisture, total acidity and sucrose, and very low diastase activity.
However, ash, pH, electrical conductivity, F/G ratio and HMF followed
the international standard of A. mellifera honey. As for antimicrobial
Journal of Apicultural Research 2012.51:45-52.
activity, the honey samples inhibited thirteen test bacteria but did not
inhibit P. acnes and the two species of yeasts. The antioxidant activity
of the honey samples were shown in IC50 valued from 0.04 to 0.07
mg/ml.
Based upon its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, it is
possible that stingless bee honey may have some therapeutic
potential as well as being used as a food supplement. However,
clinical studies would be carried out to investigate effects in vivo.
Nevertheless, this study does not contradict the use of stingless bee
honey as a home remedy in the traditional wisdom amongst Thais.