Preparing Your Raw Propolis
Before you can learn how to mix propolis, you must properly prepare the raw material. Raw propolis is a sticky, resinous substance collected from the hive, which often contains impurities like wood pieces, beeswax, and debris. Proper cleaning and preparation are crucial for creating a high-quality, pure extract.
Cleaning and Pulverizing
- Freeze the Propolis: Place your collected raw propolis in an airtight bag or container and freeze it. This will cause the normally sticky resin to become brittle and hard, making it much easier to work with.
- Crush it: Once frozen solid, take the bag of propolis and use a hammer to break it into very small pieces or a fine powder. This increases the surface area, allowing for better extraction.
- Sift and Clean: Use a cool water bath to further clean the propolis. In a large bowl of cold water, stir the crushed propolis. The heavier propolis will sink, while lighter wax and debris will float to the surface, which you can skim off. Lay the cleaned, wet propolis on parchment paper in a cool, dark place to dry completely before use.
Method 1: Creating an Alcohol-Based Tincture
The most potent and common method for creating a propolis extract is with high-proof grain alcohol, as it effectively dissolves the most active compounds.
Supplies Needed
- 1 part cleaned, pulverized propolis (by weight)
- 9 parts high-proof grain alcohol (75 proof or higher, such as Everclear or high-quality vodka) (by weight)
- Clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid
- Amber dropper bottles for storage
- Coffee filters or cheesecloth for straining
Instructions
- Combine the propolis and alcohol in the glass jar. Ensure the jar's lid is tight and that no metal comes into contact with the liquid by using a piece of parchment paper under the lid if necessary.
- Shake the jar vigorously to mix the ingredients thoroughly.
- Store the jar in a cool, dark place, such as a kitchen cabinet, for at least two weeks. For maximum potency, allow it to steep for up to eight weeks.
- Shake the mixture two to three times per day during the steeping period.
- After steeping, strain the liquid through a coffee filter or several layers of cheesecloth to remove all solids. This may be a slow process and may require multiple passes.
- Transfer the finished tincture into amber dropper bottles for storage, protecting it from light degradation.
Method 2: Infusing Propolis into Oil
For topical remedies like salves, balms, and creams, an oil-based infusion is the best choice. This method is soothing for the skin and avoids the harshness of alcohol.
Supplies Needed
- 1 part cleaned, pulverized propolis (by weight)
- 9 parts carrier oil (such as olive oil, coconut oil, or jojoba oil) (by weight)
- Double boiler
- Candy thermometer
- Cheesecloth or coffee filters
- Airtight glass jars for storage
Instructions
- Combine the propolis and carrier oil in the top of a double boiler.
- Gently heat the water in the bottom of the double boiler, monitoring the oil's temperature with a candy thermometer. The oil should not exceed 122°F (50°C), as higher temperatures can destroy some beneficial propolis compounds.
- Stir the mixture gently and consistently for at least 30 minutes, or up to four hours, to infuse the propolis into the oil. Not all of the propolis will dissolve.
- Strain the oil through cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove the propolis solids.
- Store the infused oil in an airtight glass jar in a cool, dark place. The remaining solids can be stored in the freezer and reused for another batch.
Using Your Homemade Propolis Mixes
Once you have your propolis mixes ready, they can be incorporated into various products.
For Tinctures (Internal & External)
- Oral Use: Add a few drops to a glass of water, juice, or a spoonful of honey to mask the intense flavor. For a sore throat, a few drops mixed with warm water can be gargled.
- Throat Spray: Combine propolis tincture with warm water and honey in a small spray bottle for a soothing throat spray.
- Topical Application: Apply a few drops directly to minor cuts or abrasions. The alcohol will sting briefly but will help cleanse the area.
For Oil Infusions (External Only)
- Salves and Balms: Use the propolis-infused oil as a base for creating moisturizing and healing salves by mixing it with melted beeswax.
- Skin Care: Apply the oil directly to patches of dry skin, eczema, or psoriasis to soothe irritation.
Comparison of Propolis Mixing Methods
| Feature | Alcohol Tincture | Oil Infusion | Water Extract |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Use Case | Internal & External | Topical (creams, salves) | Mouthwash, Gargle (for alcohol avoidance) |
| Potency | High (extracts most compounds) | Moderate (topical efficacy) | Lower (loses some compounds) |
| Solvent | High-proof grain alcohol | Food-grade carrier oil | Water (distilled) |
| Heat Required? | No | Gentle heat only (<122°F) | Boiling (though not ideal) |
| Extraction Time | 2–8 weeks | 30 mins – 4 hours | Quick (minutes) |
| Primary Benefit | Maximum compound extraction | Soothing, gentle on skin | Alcohol-free alternative |
Important Safety Considerations
Before using propolis, especially for the first time, perform a patch test on a small, inconspicuous area of your skin. This is particularly important for individuals with bee or pollen allergies, as allergic reactions to propolis can occur. Consult with a healthcare professional before using propolis, especially for internal consumption, or if you are pregnant, nursing, or have a pre-existing health condition.
For more in-depth scientific information on propolis composition and benefits, consider referencing reputable sources such as studies cited on the National Institutes of Health website.
Conclusion
Mixing propolis at home provides a versatile way to harness its many natural benefits for both internal and topical use. Whether you choose the potent alcohol-based tincture or the soothing oil infusion, the key lies in careful preparation and patience. Always prioritize safety by cleaning your raw materials and testing for allergies before use. With a little effort, you can create a powerful natural remedy cabinet with propolis as a key ingredient.
