Design and Optimization of Bioactive Oral Disintegrating Films Containing Apis mellifera Propolis

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to develop and optimize orally disintegrating films (ODFs) incorporating an ethanolic extract of Apis mellifera propolis as a natural source of antioxidants. A mixture design was applied to evaluate the combined effect of propolis, essential oil, and polymers on the functional properties of the films. The extract exhibited a high content of phenolic compounds (318.15 ± 5.76 mg GAE/g) and flavonoids (644.82 ± 6.41 mg QE/g), along with strong antioxidant activity (DPPH 87.43%, ABTS 91.12%). The optimal formulation achieved a significant balance between mechanical properties (tensile strength 6.21 MPa, elongation 15.84%) and antioxidant activity, accomplishing a comprehensive improvement through propolis‐polymer interaction. The quadratic models obtained were significant ( R 2 > 0.74). These results demonstrate the potential of propolis‐containing ODFs as functional polymeric materials for rapid release systems with bioactive properties.