Spectroscopic and Chemical Insights into Baltic Amber: Structure, Bioactivity, and Clinical Prospects. A Review

Abstract

Baltic amber (succinate) has attracted attention not only as an ornamental material but also for its biological and medical potential. This review summarizes the structural and chemical features of Baltic amber based on spectroscopic analyses (FTIR, Raman, and GC–MS), with emphasis on its bioactive compounds such as succinic acid and diterpenoids. Reported biological activities include anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects. The objective of this review is to provide an updated overview of spectroscopic and chemical findings, to connect these findings with biological activities, and to highlight possible clinical prospects. The paper also discusses limitations and gaps between laboratory results and clinical applications.