POLSKI
Introduction
Stingless bees, particularly from the genus Trigona, have attracted significant attention from researchers due to the therapeutic potential of the honey they produce. Stingless bee honey contains bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which contribute to its biological activities, including antioxidant and antidiabetic effects [1, 2]. This potential provides a great opportunity to utilize honey as a natural intervention in the prevention and management of various degenerative diseases, including diabetes mellitus, which is currently one of the biggest global health problems [3, 4].
According to a recent global report published in “The Lancet”, the number of adults with diabetes worldwide reached over 828 million in 2022, a fourfold increase compared to 1990 [5]. In Indonesia alone, the estimated number of people with diabetes is around 25 million, making it the country with the fifth-highest number of diabetes patients globally [6].
With such a significant global burden, the interest in using meliponine honey as a potential natural remedy for diabetes management is highly relevant. Research has already shown that meliponine honey possesses bioactive compounds such as polyphenols and flavonoids, which contribute to its antioxidant and antidiabetic effects. For instance, a study demonstrated that meliponine honey combined with Maja leaf extract exhibited stronger antioxidant activity than meliponine honey alone [7]. These findings highlight the potential for further investigation into honey as a valuable tool in combating the growing prevalence of diabetes.
The antioxidant properties of meliponine honey are known to stem from its ability to scavenge free radicals and protect cells from oxidative damage. Key bioactive components, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, including gallic acid, have been found to significantly contribute to the honey’s antioxidant activity [8]. These compounds exert their effects by neutralizing free radicals, which are highly reactive molecules that can cause oxidative stress by damaging cellular components such as lipids, proteins, and DNA. Oxidative stress is a major contributor to the development of chronic diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer [9].
Flavonoids, in particular, work by directly scavenging free radicals through their aromatic structure, which allows them to donate electrons and neutralize radicals. Additionally, flavonoids help to activate the body’s natural antioxidant defense systems, including enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase, which further protect cells from oxidative damage. Phenolic acids, such as gallic acid, also play a role in reducing oxidative stress by chelating metal ions that can catalyze the formation of free radicals. Moreover, these compounds contribute to the inhibition of lipid peroxidation, thereby preserving the integrity of cell membranes and preventing damage to vital cellular structures [10].
Additionally, the antioxidant activity of honey is highly influenced by its geographic origin, the botanical sources of nectar, and the species of bee that produces it. For example, honey collected from botanical sources such as mangroves and coconuts has higher flavonoid content, which correlates positively with its antioxidant power [2, 3].
In addition to antioxidant activity, meliponine honey also exhibits promising antidiabetic properties. Several studies have reported that this honey can inhibit the activity of α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes, which play a crucial role in breaking down carbohydrates into glucose [11]. Inhibition of these enzymes helps regulate postprandial blood sugar levels, making meliponine honey a potential agent for the natural management of diabetes. This antidiabetic activity is largely influenced by its gallic acid and flavonoid content, which also enhance insulin secretion and reduce insulin resistance [12, 13].
Although numerous studies have explored the antioxidant and antidiabetic properties of stingless bee honey, reviews that specifically compare these properties based on bee species and geographic origin are still very limited. Previous research tends to focus on a single geographic location or a particular bee species without considering the multidimensional diversity, including the interactions between location, species, and botanical sources [14, 15]. This review, by adopting a broader approach that integrates diverse bee species and geographical contexts, aims to fill this knowledge gap. By examining how different environments and bee species influence the bioactive properties of honey, this review will provide a comprehensive understanding of the variations in antioxidant and antidiabetic activities. This will enable researchers to better understand the interplay between environmental factors and honey’s therapeutic potential, thereby advancing the development of targeted, location-specific natural interventions for managing diseases such as diabetes.
The novelty of this review lies in its systematic approach to evaluating the differences in antioxidant and antidiabetic properties of meliponine honey from various stingless bee species and geographic origins through a scoping review. This approach allows for clearer identification of patterns related to the influence of bee species, botanical sources, and environmental factors on the bioactivity of honey. Furthermore, this study emphasizes the importance of understanding the specific contributions of bioactive compounds such as gallic acid and flavonoids in the context of natural diabetes management.
Another original aspect of this research is its focus on the ecological and economic relevance of stingless bee farming (meliponiculture). With the increasing global demand for functional natural products, meliponiculture has emerged as a sustainable practice that not only supports biodiversity but also has significant economic implications for local communities. By promoting the conservation of stingless bee species, meliponiculture can provide a valuable source of income for farmers, especially in rural areas where traditional agricultural practices may be less profitable.
The findings from this review can not only provide scientific guidance for further exploration but also inform the development of conservation strategies for stingless bee species, ensuring the sustainability of honey production. Moreover, optimizing the production of high-quality meliponine honey through meliponiculture can lead to a more stable and profitable honey industry, benefiting both local economies and the global market for natural products.
This research may also serve as a foundation for the formulation of pharmaceutical or nutraceutical products based on meliponine honey, particularly for the natural prevention and therapy of diabetes mellitus, further enhancing the economic viability and market potential of meliponiculture. Thus, it is hoped that this review will not only provide new insights into the biological properties of meliponine honey but also strengthen its position as a promising natural bioactive source in supporting global public health.
Material and methods
This scoping review will follow the procedures developed by the Joanna Briggs Institute, which include nine systematic steps [16], to identify and synthesize relevant evidence regarding the antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of meliponine honey produced by stingless bee species.
Stage 1: Defining Objectives and Research Questions
The main objective of this review is to explore the variations in the antioxidant and antidiabetic properties of meliponine honey from different stingless bee species. The research question to be answered is:
How do the geographical origins and species of stingless bees affect the antioxidant quality and antidiabetic potential of meliponine honey?
The objectives of this review include:
Stages 2-3: Designing the Search Strategy and Inclusion Criteria
In designing the review protocol, inclusion and exclusion criteria were determined based on the population, concept, and context (PCC) approach relevant to the research question (Table I) [16]. The primary focus was on meliponine honey from stingless bee species, examining factors such as chemical composition, antioxidant potential, and its impact on diabetes management.
Table I
Population, concept and context
Studies included in this review are empirical research articles that have been published, addressing both the chemical aspects of meliponine honey and its biological effects. Only studies published in English and available in full text are included, with no time restrictions.
The literature search was conducted using a phased search strategy consisting of:
An initial test to determine the most relevant keywords and search terms used in the literature related to meliponine honey.
A comprehensive search of major scientific databases such as PubMed, Scopus, DOAJ, Wiley Online, Google Scholar, and others relevant sources, including gray literature, where applicable.
A manual search was conducted by reviewing the references of selected articles, including conference proceedings, theses, and reports, to identify relevant studies not captured by the database search
Stage 4. Article selection
Duplicate articles or those not published in English were automatically removed using reference management software such as Endnote and Covidence. Article screening was carried out by 2 independent reviewers based on the title and abstract, with a third reviewer examining any disagreements. Full-text screening was also conducted by 2 independent reviewers to ensure the quality and relevance of the selected studies.
Stages 5–9. Data collection, analysis, and thematic synthesis
Data from the selected articles were extracted using a customized extraction table, recording information such as publication year, authors, study type, and key outcomes related to the antioxidant properties and antidiabetic effects of meliponine honey. This extraction table also recorded characteristics of the research methods and populations involved, such as bee species, geographical locations, and methods for testing biological activity.
The extracted results were analyzed and synthesized using a thematic synthesis approach, grouping findings into descriptive themes relevant to the review’s objectives. Data analysis was supported using qualitative data analysis software, such as Opencode, to ensure systematic coding and theme development. Each theme was further analyzed to explore relationships between bee species, honey origin, and their biological activity. The results of this analysis are summarized in a conceptual framework that captures the variations in the antioxidant and antidiabetic properties of meliponine honey from different stingless bee species. This process also involved validation of the findings by the reviewers to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the obtained results.
Results
Summary of characteristics of selected studies
The flow diagram below outlines the article selection stages applied in this review. The process began with the collection of records from various sources, yielding a total of 698 records identified across multiple databases and registries, including PubMed (n = 197), Scopus (n = 145), DOAJ (n = 103), Wiley Online (n = 114), and gray literature from Google Scholar (n = 139). Additional records were obtained from registries such as ClinicalTrials.gov (n = 19) and WHO ICTRP (n = 20). Following the initial screening, duplicates (199 records) were removed, along with records that did not meet the criteria based on screening tools (202 records) and records excluded for other reasons (70 records). After this filtering process, 227 records remained for further screening. Of these, 66 records were excluded for failing to meet inclusion criteria, such as irrelevance to diabetes care or the research focus.
Subsequently, 161 reports were processed for data extraction; however, 30 reports were inaccessible. Of the 131 reports assessed for eligibility, 112 were excluded for the following reasons: irrelevance to diabetes management (n = 30), low study quality (n = 45), and incomplete data (n = 37). This process resulted in 10 relevant and eligible articles for inclusion in the review.
Additionally, further records were identified through other methods, including websites such as WHO (n = 8), ADA (n = 13), and IDF (n = 7), as well as organizations like the American Diabetes Association (n = 4) and the International Diabetes Federation (n = 5). Citation searches yielded 11 additional records. From the 13 reports requested for extraction, 8 were assessed for eligibility, and 4 were excluded for the following reasons: irrelevance to diabetes care (n = 1), low study quality (n = 1), and incomplete data (n = 2). This process resulted in 4 additional relevant articles for inclusion.
Overall, through various sources and identification methods, 23 articles were successfully included in this review, providing a comprehensive overview of the use of meliponine honey in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. The selection process adhered to PRISMA guidelines and is illustrated in Figure 1.
Origin of meliponine honey
The origin of meliponine honey plays a crucial role in determining its characteristics and bioactive quality. Geographic location, local flora, and environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, and air pollution significantly influence the chemical composition and therapeutic properties of the honey. A study by Zakaria et al. [1], which analyzed honey from Kulim, Kedah; Tanjung Malim, Perak; and Kuala Selangor, Selangor, revealed that environmental conditions in these areas affect antioxidant content, such as gallic acid and polyphenols. The air pollution index was also examined to study its correlation with the biological activity of the honey.
In Indonesia, honey from East and North Kalimantan, as researched by Syafrizal et al. [17], reflects the biodiversity of the region. Bee colonies collected from local forests produced honey with high flavonoid and phenolic compound content, highlighting the direct influence of local flora on the honey’s antioxidant properties. Another study in Kalimantan, by Ngaini et al. [18], confirmed that meliponine honey from the area has strong therapeutic potential, with bioactive components such as phenolic compounds and aliphatic acids closely related to the bees’ nectar sources.
In Sarawak, Malaysia, Wong et al. [19] examined honey sourced from inland and coastal areas, showing how the presence of specific flora, such as Acacia mangium trees, affects the total phenolic content of the honey. A study by Ali et al. [2] in West Malaysia also revealed that multifloral sources contributed significantly to the honey’s antioxidant activity and bioactive compound diversitThe relationship between the origin of honey and its therapeutic properties is also evident in international research. In southern Brazil, meliponine honey demonstrated high antioxidant activity due to its rich phenolic content, likely derived from the unique flora of the region, as studied by Biluca et al. [20]. Similarly, in India, honey from different geographical regions showed variations in biochemical properties, reflecting the direct influence of local botanical sources and ecosystems, as found by Varsha et al. [21].
In conclusion, honey’s origin affects not only its taste, color, and aroma but also its nutritional content and therapeutic potential. This variation provides evidence that honey is a natural product greatly influenced by biodiversity and the complex interactions between bees, local flora, and the environment. Further studies on the origin of honey can help optimize its health and medicinal benefits.
Methodology used
In various studies on stingless bee (Meliponini) honey, a range of methodologies have been applied to explore the therapeutic potential and bioactive components of the honey, employing in-depth and diverse approaches. Zakaria et al. [1] used an observational approach to collect honey samples from various locations in Malaysia. This study not only measured the content of gallic acid and polyphenols but also evaluated antioxidant, antibacterial, and antidiabetic activities through a series of comprehensive laboratory tests. This approach allowed for a broader understanding of the variability in content and medical potential of stingless bee honey from different locations.
Meanwhile, Ali et al. [2] took a more focused approach by using in vitro experiments to test the inhibition activity of α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes, which are crucial in carbohydrate metabolism and blood glucose regulation. This study also assessed the flavonoid and phenolic compound content in the honey, which actively contributes to improving glucose management in the body, providing concrete evidence on how these components work in regulating diabetes.
Krishnasree and Ukkuru [11] opted for an in-depth in vitro model to study the glycemic index and antidiabetic activity of various types of honey. This methodology focused on the honey’s ability to inhibit enzymes involved in carbohydrate digestion, providing direct insight into how honey can play a role in regulating glucose levels in the body, particularly for individuals with diabetes.
Shamsudin et al. [3] adopted an observational methodology to explore the influence of botanical origin and bee species on the physicochemical properties and antioxidant activity of honey. This approach allowed them to observe significant differences in the quality of honey from different botanical and geographical sources, as well as to identify bioactive compounds involved in the honey’s therapeutic properties.
In contrast to other approaches, Aziz et al. [12] used an animal model with streptozotocin-nicotinamide-induced diabetic rats to investigate the pancreatic-protective and antidiabetic effects of stingless bee honey. By using this model, the study could directly investigate changes in blood glucose levels, lipid profiles, and inflammation levels, as well as the effects of honey on insulin and blood glucose, demonstrating the potential of honey as a therapeutic agent in diabetes management.
Finally, Cheng et al. [15] adopted a comparative approach by collecting honey samples from forest and suburban areas in Malaysia to analyze differences in sugar content, mineral elements, and antioxidant properties. Through this analysis, they were able to identify the relationship between geographic origin and bioactive content in honey, offering insights into how the environment influences the therapeutic quality of honey.
The methodologies used in these studies include a combination of powerful techniques, ranging from laboratory analysis, in vitro testing, to animal models, allowing researchers to thoroughly explore the potential of stingless bee honey and providing a strong foundation for a deeper understanding of its ability to regulate diabetes and related diseases.
Antioxidant components
The antioxidant components in stingless bee (Meliponini) honey include various bioactive compounds with significant therapeutic potential (Figure 2). Zakaria et al. [1] reported that polyphenols, including flavonoids and phenolic acids such as gallic acid, are major contributors to the honey’s antioxidant activity. Ali et al. [2] identified phenolic compounds and flavonoids with phenolic content ranging from 77.52 to 141.74 mg GAE/100 g and flavonoids reaching 13.71–51.33 mg RE/100 g. Shamsudin et al. [3] found that organic acids such as acetic acid, citric acid, D-malic acid, tartaric acid, gluconic acid, and succinic acid also contribute to the antioxidant properties.
Other studies, such as that by Kek et al. [8], showed that the DPPH free radical scavenging activity, total phenolic content (TPC), and total flavonoid content (TFC) are key indicators of the honey’s antioxidant capacity. Nweze et al. [22] added that phenols, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), and antioxidant equivalent activity (AEAC) play important roles. Varsha et al. [21] emphasized the importance of flavonoids and other antioxidants as key compounds in stingless bee honey.
Shamsudin et al. [23] reported the presence of phenolic compounds in honey from various botanical origins, which contribute significantly to its antioxidant activity. Selvaraju et al. [14] identified free radical scavenging activities such as ABTS, DPPH, and superoxide, which are closely related to the phenolic content. Al-Hatamleh et al. [13] noted the presence of phenolic acids such as gallic acid, salicylic acid, and p-coumaric acid, as well as various flavonoids, e.g. kaempferol, luteolin, catechin, apigenin, and taxifolin.
Syafrizal et al. [17] showed that tannins, flavonoids, coumarins, and other phenolic compounds are important components of honey from Kalimantan. Majid et al. [24] reported six main phenolic compounds, namely chlorogenic acid, epicatechin, p-coumaric acid, rutin, catechin, and protocatechuic acid, which support the honey’s antioxidant activity. Biluca et al. [20] highlighted the high free radical scavenging activity derived from the phenolic content in stingless bee honey. Mahmood et al. [25] added that carotenoids and total phenolic content (TPC) support the honey’s antioxidant properties, as measured by DPPH and FRAP methods.
Wong et al. [19] identified significant total phenolic content (TPC) in honey produced by stingless bees from Sarawak. Nasir et al. [26] also found phenolic compounds and flavonoids that support the honey’s antioxidant capacity. Ngaini et al. [18] highlighted that phenolic compounds, aliphatic acids, and fatty alcohols are key components responsible for the antioxidant properties of honey from Kalimantan.
Antidiabetic components
The antidiabetic components in stingless bee (Meliponini) honey have been the focus of several studies, revealing its therapeutic potential. Zakaria et al. [1] found that gallic acid, one of the phenolic compounds, plays an important role in the antidiabetic activity of this honey, showing a positive correlation between gallic acid content and reduced blood glucose levels, as well as increased insulin release. Additionally, Ali et al. [2] identified that the phenolic compounds and flavonoids in the honey contribute to the inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase, two enzymes involved in regulating blood glucose levels. Research by Krishnasree and Ukkuru [11] also demonstrated that the honey’s ability to inhibit these enzymes is one of its main antidiabetic mechanisms.
Furthermore, Aziz et al. [12] reported that although no specific antidiabetic components were explicitly mentioned, stingless bee honey from the species Geniotrigona thoracica had a significant effect in lowering blood glucose and increasing insulin levels, which was also supported by reduced oxidative stress and inflammation in a diabetic rat model. Research by Al-Hatamleh et al. [13] highlighted how this honey not only lowered blood glucose levels but also improved lipid profiles by increasing HDL cholesterol levels and decreasing total cholesterol and triglycerides (Fig. 3).
Overall, these studies underline the potential of stingless bee honey as an effective natural source to support diabetes management through various mechanisms, including enzyme inhibition related to glucose absorption and regulation of blood glucose metabolism.
The analysis reveals that the antioxidant properties of meliponine honey are influenced by its phenolic and flavonoid content, which varies depending on the geographical origin, local flora, and bee species. The honey’s antidiabetic activity is linked to its ability to inhibit the enzymes α-amylase and α-glucosidase and enhance insulin release. A summary of the reviewed studies, detailing the antioxidant and antidiabetic components, is provided in Suppl Table I.
Discussion
The findings of this study indicate that the antioxidant and antidiabetic properties of meliponine honey are significantly influenced by geographic origin, bee species, and botanical sources. Previous research has shown that honey from regions such as East Kalimantan and Sarawak is associated with high levels of flavonoids and phenolic compounds, reflecting the diversity of local flora [17, 19]. This floral diversity also contributes to the variation in the bioactive activity of honey, which affects its therapeutic potential. For example, honey from mangrove and coconut trees exhibits strong antioxidant activity and inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes, which are important in diabetes [2].
Stingless bee species, such as Heterotrigona itama and Hypotrigona sp., play a critical role in determining honey quality. Research by Selvaraju et al. [14] demonstrated that the ability of bee species to produce honey with high antioxidant activity is highly influenced by their nectar preferences and metabolism. Similar findings were reported by Nweze et al. [22], who observed that honey from local species in Nigeria exhibited a unique phenolic profile, supporting antioxidant activity. This is consistent with studies in Latin America confirming that variations in the bioactive compound content of meliponine honey are greatly influenced by bee species and local flora [27].
Furthermore, the botanical source from which bees collect nectar also affects the bioactive compound content of the honey. Honey derived from coconut trees, for instance, has a high flavonoid content, while honey from mangrove trees shows enzyme inhibition capabilities relevant to diabetes management [2]. Other studies have shown that the phenolic content in meliponine honey is influenced by the local flora from which the bees gather nectar, contributing to the honey’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities [28]. Therefore, environmental factors and plant types are crucial in determining the quality and therapeutic properties of honey.
Regarding its antidiabetic potential, meliponine honey has been shown to inhibit α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes, which are involved in the breakdown of carbohydrates into glucose, as well as to increase insulin release and reduce insulin [11, 12]. These findings are also supported by other studies, such as that by Mahmood et al. [25], which demonstrated that multifloral honey from Malaysia has antioxidant activity that supports its antidiabetic effects. Research in Cuba also showed that meliponine honey could protect pancreatic tissue, potentially reducing damage caused by diabetes [29]. Thus, meliponine honey has great potential as a natural therapeutic agent, particularly in the management of diabetes.
This review emphasizes the importance of understanding the factors influencing honey quality, especially geographic origin, bee species, and botanical sources. With the increasing demand for natural products, meliponine honey has the potential to become a promising alternative for managing degenerative diseases such as diabetes. However, to maximize its potential, a holistic approach to stingless beekeeping that considers environmental factors and bee species is necessary. Further research is required to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying the antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of meliponine honey and to test its effectiveness through more extensive clinical trials.
Conclusions
This study demonstrates that honey from stingless bees (Meliponini) has great potential as a natural therapeutic agent in the management of diabetes and protection against oxidative damage. The antioxidant and antidiabetic properties of meliponine honey are greatly influenced by bee species, botanical sources, and geographic origin. Key bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and phenolic acids contribute significantly to the biological activity of this honey.
These findings underscore the importance of considering environmental factors and bee species diversity in stingless beekeeping to enhance honey quality. Furthermore, meliponine honey holds relevant economic and ecological potential, which could support the preservation of stingless bees and the optimization of natural products for global health needs.
To maximize its therapeutic benefits, further research is needed to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying the biological activities of the honey, as well as to test its effectiveness through more extensive clinical trials.
