Glossary
A step-by-step guide to creating propolis tincture by dissolving raw propolis in high-proof alcohol (ethanol). Propolis tincture is a concentrated extract used for immune support, sore throat treatment, wound care, and skincare formulations. The alcohol extraction captures the bioactive flavonoids and phenolic compounds.
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Florida beekeeping has its own rhythm. Our bees never fully stop brood-rearing, which means year-round management, but also year-round honey production from diverse floral sources.
Raw propolis (cleaned of wood and debris): 50 grams. High-proof alcohol (190 proof grain alcohol/Everclear, or 100 proof vodka for a milder extraction): 250 ml. A clean glass jar with tight-fitting lid (mason jar works perfectly). Fine mesh strainer and cheesecloth. Dark glass dropper bottles for storage.
Step 1: Freeze the raw propolis for 2 to 4 hours. Frozen propolis becomes brittle and can be ground into small pieces or powder using a mortar and pestle, food processor, or by placing it in a bag and crushing with a hammer. Smaller pieces dissolve faster. Step 2: Place the ground propolis in the glass jar and cover with alcohol. The standard ratio is 1 part propolis to 5 parts alcohol by weight (1:5). For a stronger tincture, use 1:3. Step 3: Seal tightly and shake vigorously for 30 seconds. Store in a cool, dark place for 2 to 4 weeks, shaking daily for 30 seconds. The alcohol will turn deep amber-brown as it extracts the bioactive compounds. Step 4: Strain through cheesecloth and fine mesh into a clean container. Squeeze the cheesecloth to extract maximum liquid. Discard the undissolved residue (mostly beeswax and insoluble matter). Step 5: Transfer to dark glass dropper bottles. Label with the date and ratio. Store in a cool, dark place. Shelf life: 2 to 5 years.
190 proof (95% ethanol, such as Everclear) produces the most complete extraction of all propolis compounds (including wax-soluble resinous compounds). 100 proof (50% ethanol vodka) produces a good extraction of water-and-alcohol-soluble compounds but misses some resin-soluble components. Either works; 190 proof is scientifically optimal but 100 proof is more widely available and produces a perfectly usable tincture.
Internal: 10 to 30 drops in water or tea, 1 to 3 times daily for immune support or sore throat. Topical: Apply drops directly to minor cuts, cold sores, or blemishes (the alcohol stings briefly). Skincare: Add 5 to 10 drops to a tablespoon of raw honey for an enhanced face mask. Warning: Propolis can cause allergic reactions in people allergic to bee products or tree resins. Test on a small skin area first.
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