Biochemical, antimicrobial, antioxidant and palynological activities of honey.

Aims & Objectives: The aim of the study was to examine the biochemical,
antimicrobial, antioxidant and palynological studies of different honey samples
collected from different locations of Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka, India.
Materials & Methods: Ten types of honey samples were collected from ten locations
of Dakshina Kannada. Physical properties and biochemical constituents were
determined by following standard protocols. Antimicrobial activity test was done
against Klebsiella pneumoniae and Streptococcus mutans by well diffusion method.
Results: The color of honey samples were differed from light to intense and pH varied
from 3.48 to 6.18. The protein content was in the range of 0.13-0.62 mg/g. The honey
quality varied from 4.2 to 15 Brix %. Total sugar content was in the range of 4.5-
9.8mg/g. The total phenolic content varied considerably with the highest value
obtained for Processed society honey, Butterfly Park, Beluvai. The different shapes of
pollen grains observed.
Conclusion: The honey samples exhibited different chemical composition and pH.
The local natural honeys were abundant in specific plant pollens due to wider
biodiversity both cultivated and natural vegetations in the collected areas. So local
honey samples can be utilized as an excellent dietary source of antioxidants as well as
the antibacterial agents, and hence duly be active for both therapeutic and
prophylactic application.