Abu Dhabi Honey – A Good Source Of Hydrogen Peroxide And Antimicrobial Activity

Abstract

Honey is a sugary viscous liquid having known for its therapeutic potential since ancient times. It is packed with nutrients and compounds that have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. The hydrogen peroxide production resulting from the enzymatic action of glucose oxidase produced by the hypopharyngeal glands of honeybees has a linear correlation with antimicrobial property. In the current study, hydrogen peroxide content of Sidr and Damas honey produced in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi were assessed for 101 samples.The mean concentration of hydrogen peroxide in Sidr honey was 1.69 ± 0.79 mM, while it was 2.56 ± 0.84 mM in Damas honey. A statistically significant difference between Sidr and Damas honeys has been observed. Antimicrobial efficacy using the well diffusion method against Staphylococcus aureus exhibited inhibition zones ranging from 20 to 27 mm implying strong antibacterial activity. Further studies involving more samples and test organisms could assess the potential application in complementary medicine and food preservation.