As a seasoned beekeeper, I am excited to share with you the art of crafting propolis tincture, a powerful and versatile substance known for its myriad of benefits. Propolis is my most valued product that comes from our hives.
What is Propolis?
Propolis is a remarkable resinous mixture that bees create by combining tree sap, beeswax, and their own enzymes. This magical blend serves as the bees’ defence against pathogens and invaders, lining the hive with a protective shield. Beyond its role in hive defence, propolis is a valuable substance for both bees and humans alike with antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. As I cannot make medical claims I encourage everyone to look up the many studies on propolis and its benefits.
I would also like to link you to a Youtube video that the Ontario Beekeepers Association have created that describes propolis in more detail.
How to make Propolis Tincture
Materials:
- Raw propolis
- High-proof alcohol (e.g., vodka or grain alcohol)
- Glass jar with a tight-sealing lid
- Coffee filter
- digital scale
- Dark glass dropper bottles
- Funnel
Hi, I’m Jen!
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Directions
*****Note: Propolis and propolis tincture will stain all of the equipment it comes into contact with. I strongly recommend lining surfaces in newspaper and to wear old clothing when working with it. I prefer to use equipment, such as funnels, that can be dedicated to making propolis in the future due to the staining.
Step 1: Harvesting Propolis
Propolis can be harvested by gently scraping propolis from hive surfaces using a hive tool. Alternatively, a propolis mat can be used in the hive. I have best results when I use a riser around the mat to encourage the bees to fill the gaps. The easiest way I have found to remove the propolis from the mats is to freeze them in a large bag. Once frozen I bend them, thus cracking the brittle propolis off the mat and into the surrounding bag. If you are purchasing your propolis I recommend going directly to a local beekeeper. This way you may ask questions about how the beekeeper chooses to manage their hive and get a product you know to be authentic.
Step 2: Cleaning Propolis
Clean the propolis by removing any debris by hand and then rinsing with cool water. Once thoroughly dry the propolis is ready to be used. .
Step 3: Creating the Tincture
Place a clean jar onto a digital scale and tare the weight. Add the cleaned propolis into the jar noting the total weight of the propolis. I like to add two parts of high proof alcohol to one part of propolis. Once the amount of alcohol is determined add it directly into the jar. Seal the jar tightly and store in a cool dark place and shake it daily for the first week. After 4-6 weeks the alcohol has extracted the beneficial compounds in the propolis and it can be filtered.
Step 4: Straining the Tincture
The tincture can be strained by simply using a coffee filter in a funnel. This removes the remaining solid particles, leaving behind the pure propolis tincture.
Step 5: Bottling the Tincture
Transfer the filtered tincture into dark glass dropper bottles to protect it from light, preserving its potency. Ensure the bottles are tightly sealed to prevent evaporation.
Propolis tincture is easy to make and has many uses. I love having it on hand for my family’s needs.