Unlocking the Potential of New Zealand Propolis: CAPE, Flavonoids and the Science of Bioactivity

New Zealand propolis is one of nature’s most concentrated sources of plant defence compounds, a resinous material bees collect from native flora to protect their hives from pathogens. While it’s long been prized in traditional medicine, modern analytical science is now uncovering exactly why propolis is so potent and how standardised testing can transform its value for producers and exporters alike.

The Chemistry Behind Propolis

The power of propolis lies in its complex mix of plant-derived compounds, particularly flavonoids and phenolic esters that exhibit strong antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Among these, one compound stands out for its biological significance, Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester (CAPE).

CAPE is known for its ability to modulate inflammatory responses, inhibit microbial growth, and support immune function at the cellular level. Its presence in New Zealand propolis, especially from native species such as Leptospermum and Kunzea, gives it a distinct bioactive profile that differs from propolis found elsewhere in the world. Flavonoids including pinocembrin, galangin, and chrysin complement CAPE by providing antioxidant protection, helping neutralise free radicals and supporting tissue repair processes. Together, these compounds make New Zealand propolis a uniquely powerful natural product for human health.

A beekeeper checking on his hives

Role in Human Health

A growing body of research highlights several key areas where propolis bioactives, including CAPE and flavonoids, may contribute to human health:

• Immune modulation: helping regulate inflammatory pathways and enhancing the body’s natural defence mechanisms.

• Antimicrobial activity: inhibiting bacterial, fungal, and viral pathogens through multiple biochemical mechanisms.

• Antioxidant protection: reducing oxidative stress linked to chronic diseases and ageing.

• Tissue repair and wound healing: supporting regeneration and recovery through cellular signalling pathways.

  
  

While these effects are complex and multifactorial, their combined action underpins why propolis is increasingly recognised as a functional bioactive ingredient rather than a traditional supplement.

Why Testing Matters

Despite its natural potency, one of the biggest challenges for New Zealand propolis is standardisation. The composition of propolis can vary widely depending on floral source, geography, and season. Without robust testing, producers and exporters struggle to substantiate the health value of their product limiting access to premium international markets.

This is where targeted analytical testing makes the difference:

• Quantification of CAPE and total flavonoids provides measurable indicators of biological activity.

  
  

• Bioactivity assays link composition to function, offering credible evidence for marketing and regulatory approval.

  
  

By integrating these analytical methods into quality assurance frameworks, producers can move from selling raw propolis by weight to marketing it by verified potency, a shift that directly increases product value and consumer trust.

Pic Credit: Ecrotek; A beekeeper inspecting his propolis mat

From the Lab to the Market

At PAQ Laboratories, our focus is on developing testing platforms that quantify the key bioactive markers in New Zealand propolis, including CAPE and total flavonoid content. By building validated datasets around these compounds, we’re creating the foundation for standardised grading, similar to how the honey industry evolved with MGO and UMF systems.

For producers, this means:

• Clear evidence of potency.

• Greater transparency and premium positioning in export markets.

• A stronger story connecting native biodiversity with measurable human health benefits.

Looking Ahead

New Zealand’s natural products sector has already shown how science can elevate native resources into globally respected health ingredients. Propolis is poised to follow the same trajectory, provided its bioactivity is measured, validated, and communicated through credible science.

By quantifying CAPE, flavonoids, and other bioactives, we can give New Zealand propolis the recognition it deserves — not only as a natural protector of the hive, but as a scientifically proven protector of human health.

Producers interested in understanding the bioactive profile of their propolis can submit samples directly to PAQ Laboratories for CAPE and flavonoid analysis. Our team provides detailed reports and guidance to help producers demonstrate verified potency, support export claims, and add measurable value to their product.