BEEKEEPER HOME REMEDIES

Here’s how I made a batch of bee propolis tincture.

Honeybees make propolis by mixing beeswax with tree resins. These resins are natural germicides; propolis has antibiotic and antiseptic properties and is purported to also have anti-viral and anti-inflammatory benefits. Propolis is used as a dental treatment post-surgery, as a treatment for burns, minor wounds, infections, inflammatory diseases, dental pain, canker sores, sore throats, colds, you name it. Your mileage may vary.

1. Collect propolis from the hive. I placed a propolis trap in a busy colony for a month or two. When it was filled, I stuck it in the freezer to more easily remove the propolis. It can be sticky.
2. The propolis should be clean and free of wax, paint, bits of wood, etc. I shook small batches of propolis in a jar with water; the foreign pieces will float to the top.
3. For processing, the propolis should be in small pieces. The smaller the better.
4. I wanted a 30% tincture (the strongest recommended) and placed 700 grams of grain alcohol in a canning jar with 300 grams of clean propolis. I used grain alcohol so the tincture can be taken internally. If you want a topical-only tincture for wounds and such, you can mix with rubbing alcohol instead.
5. I put the jar in a brown bag on the kitchen counter so I would remember to shake it two or three times a day. Let this mixture sit for at least two weeks.
7. Finally, I strained it twice through coffee filters then bottled it up in half and one-ounce containers to share with friends.