Study of the Physiochemical Properties of Apis mellifera L. Wax from the Two Regions of Madhya Pradesh, India

Author: Sakshi Saxena A.S. Yadav, S.P.S. Tomar and Sushma Tiwari

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Abstract

Beewax is one of the most precious bee products which are produced by worker bee and used to construct their hive. Beeswax is a biodegradable, eco-friendly and valuable product that can provide a worthwhile income in addition to honey. It has several commercial, medical, and therapeutic uses that necessitate understanding its chemical makeup. The study analyzed the physicochemical properties of beeswax collected from different locations in Guna and Morena districts of Madhya Pradesh during 2021-22 and 2022-23. Eight beeswax samples were collected from local beekeepers apiary and evaluated. The result showed that the range of compositional content of beeswax viz, melting point (61.70 to 64.23°C and 61.57-64.03°C), refractive index (1.430 -1.442 and 1.433-1.445), specific gravity (0.955-0.975 and 0.955-0.973), ash content (0.033 to 0.078% and 0.032-0.079%), total volatile matter (0.327-0.583% and 0.377-0.543%), saponification value (91.67-99.33 and 92.33-98.67) acid value (18.79-22.87 and 19.12-22.53), ester value (72.88-76.47 and 73.03-76.27) and ester to acid ratio(3.38-3.90 and 3.40-3.87) during 2021-22 and 2022-23 respectively. However, except ash content all other parameters of beewax sample showed non-significant variation among the collected location. The overall results revealed that all the beeswax samples satisfied the acceptability criteria set by national standards. Based on these results, beeswax can safely be used as a food additive and subjected to the pharmacological industry.

Keywords

Beewax, physicochemical properties, Apis mellifera, acid value, ester value, refractive index

Conclusion

This research conclude that the physicochemical characteristics of beeswax produced in the Guna and Morena regions reflect acceptable quality when compared to national guidelines established to figure out the purity of the beeswax. According to the present results, the difference between the physicochemical properties of the beeswax samples was non-significant except ash content suggesting that geographical origin has no influence on natural beeswax. This research boosted information on the bee wax quality of this region and advised business expansion and employment creation strategy for the local community, as well as to increase the revenue potential of the sub sector enterprise.

References

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How to cite this article

Sakshi Saxena A.S. Yadav, S.P.S. Tomar and Sushma Tiwari (2023). Study of the Physiochemical Properties of Apis mellifera L.wax from the Two Regions of Madhya Pradesh, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(7): 111-116.