Life Science Encyclopedia

Pinocembrin is an antioxidant found in honey. Pinocembrin can only be ingested by consuming honey, but it is also found in propolis, a glue-like sustance produced by bees. Propolis is commonly used by bees to seal cracks found in the beehive.

Antioxidant Properties

Pinocembrin, like other flavonoids , is a powerful antioxidant obtained from plant sources. Pinocembrin enters honey through the pollen grains and nectar that bees collect from flowers and utilize to make honey.

Structure and Chemical Properties

The central foundation of pinocembrin(molecular formula C₁₅H₁₂O₄) is composed of a double ring structure. Functional groups include 2 hydroxy groups, a phenyl ring, a ketone, and a thiol group.

Flavanoids in Honey: http://www.chemsoc.org/ExemplarChem/entries/2001/loveridge/honeyflavonoids.gif