I am often asked "Why do bees make this and what is it good for?" A lot more than you might think! While most of us wage a constant battle to clean it off of hive tools, gloves, and clothing, most keepers seem to miss an opportunity to take full benefit from this substance.
Propolis or bee glue is a resinous mixture that honey bees produce by mixing saliva and beeswax with sap gathered from tree buds, sap flows and other sources. It is used as a sealant for unwanted open spaces in the hive.
Propolis contains flavonoids, and these are key compounds that are found in many antibiotic, anti-fungal, antimicrobial or antibacterial sources in nature. Propolis has been used for centuries and in many cultures is a first line of defense against infection from wounds.
In the hive Propolis is used for small gaps while larger spaces are usually filled with beeswax and honey. It's color varies depending on its source, with dark brown as the most common.
Propolis is sticky at and above 68 degrees F, while at lower temperatures, it becomes hard and brittle.
While foraging, worker bees primarily harvest pollen and nectar, while also collecting water and tree resin necessary for the production of propolis.
The uses of propolis range from furniture polish, industrial adhesives, and medical applications.
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