Abstract: The total polyphenolic and flavonoid contents of different concentrations (0, 25%, 50%, 75%, 95% and 100%) of ethanol extracts from honeybee comb were determined and meanwhile, their antioxidant activity was comprehensively evaluated based on total antioxidant capacity, scavenging capacities against ABTS, DPPH, superoxide anion and hydroxyl free radicals and reducing power activity. Among 6 honeybee comb extracts, 50% ethanol extract showed the highest total polyphenolic content, reaching (9.75 ± 0.16) mg gallic acid equivalent/g and 95% ethanol extract had the highest total flavonoid content, reaching (14.2 ± 0.26) mg rutin equivalent/g. Viewed comprehensively, the antioxidant activity of 6 honeybee comb extracts could be ranked from high to low in the following order: 50% ethanol extract, 75% ethanol extract, 25% ethanol extract, 95% ethanol extract, 0% ethanol extract and 100% ethanol extract. In conclusion, ethanol extract from honeybee comb is an excellent natural antioxidant.

Key words: honeybee comb, ethanol extract, antioxidant activity