Over the past fifty years, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy
proved to be a powerful tool in the structural characterisation of bioactive compounds
from natural sources. In this chapter we cover the basic theory behind each NMR
technique used to determine the structure of several families of compounds (e.g.
carbohydrates, phenolics and sesquiterpenoids) present in honey and propolis. We also
provide basic information how ID and 20 NMR techniques can help in the structure
establishment of honeybee constituents. The 'H and "C NMR data of several of these
constituents are compiled and described, being some of them used as botanical and
geographical markers. In the case of propolis, a list of compounds identified by NMR is
presented. A basic overview in quantitative NMR determinations and in NMR coupled
to chemometric methodologies highlights their use to detect honey adulteration and
assign their authenticity.
