Beekeepers collect propolis using specialized traps designed to mimic the natural conditions that stimulate bees to produce this resinous substance. Propolis traps typically consist of thin plastic sheets with narrow slits, placed where bees naturally deposit propolis, such as under hive covers. When exposed to drafts or light, bees fill these slits with propolis as they would cracks in a hive. After collection, the traps are frozen to make the propolis brittle, allowing it to be easily removed by banging or scraping. Sustainable harvesting practices ensure hives retain enough propolis for winter insulation and waterproofing.
Key Points Explained:
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Propolis Trap Design and Placement
- Traps are made of thin plastic sheets with narrow slits (3–5 mm wide), mimicking small hive gaps bees naturally seal.
- Placed under hive covers or inner lids, where light/drafts stimulate propolis deposition.
- Rough surfaces or intentional gaps (≤5/16 inch) further encourage bees to fill traps.
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Stimulating Propolis Production
- Bees collect plant resins (from buds/sap) using pollen sacks on their hind legs.
- Environmental triggers: drafts, disease threats, or excessive light in the hive.
- Propping open hive covers increases resin collection as bees attempt to regulate hive conditions.
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Harvesting Process
- Traps are left in hives for 1–2 weeks until slits are filled.
- Freezing traps (-20°C for a few hours) makes propolis brittle for easy removal by flexing/banging.
- Sustainable practice: Harvest only surplus (avoid fall/winter) to ensure hive insulation needs are met.
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Post-Harvest Processing
- Raw propolis may contain wax/debris; straining or melting purifies it.
- Common uses:
- Tinctures: Soak in 70% ethyl alcohol for 2 weeks (shaken occasionally), then strain for antimicrobial uses.
- Direct application: Melted propolis can waterproof hive components.
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Ethical and Practical Considerations
- Avoid overharvesting; bees rely on propolis for hive insulation and disease control.
- Allergy alert: Some individuals react to propolis; test tinctures topically before oral use.
- Hive tools (like scrapers) help separate propolis-sealed frames without damaging traps.
This method balances efficiency with hive health, yielding a valuable product while respecting bee behavior. The frozen-trap technique is favored for its simplicity and minimal disruption to colonies.
Summary Table:
| Key Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Trap Design | Thin plastic sheets with 3–5 mm slits, mimicking natural hive gaps. |
| Placement | Under hive covers or inner lids to stimulate propolis deposition. |
| Stimulating Production | Drafts, light, or disease threats encourage bees to fill traps with resin. |
| Harvesting | Freeze traps (-20°C) to make propolis brittle; scrape or bang to remove. |
| Post-Harvest | Purify via straining/melting; use for tinctures or hive waterproofing. |
| Ethical Practices | Avoid overharvesting; leave enough for hive insulation and disease control. |
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