What’s the deal with essential oils? Why have I been hearing about them being used with honeybees? Why do I care?
Essential oils are a “natural aromatic compound found in the seeds, bark, stems, roots, flowers, and other parts of plants” (doTerrra). Medicinal plants have been used for centuries for various healing properties. Essential oils are the raw and pure form of these natural properties that the plant holds.
There’s a fresh wave of interest in medicinal plants and in essential oils. And you and your bees could very well benefit from them!
Check out this post by The Perfect Bee that talks about essential oils used in Beekeeping. Some of these oils are used in overall hive health, some to treat for Varroa mites, some to treat for AFB, some to attract swarms to an empty hive or swarm trap.
Another, Bee Source Honey B Health talks about how to make your own Honey B Health – the real one is a product from Dadant . Just remember, when you mix the recipe it needs to be mixed in with a 1:1 sugar water ratio, etc.
- 1/8c per gallon
- 1 and 1/2 tsp per quart
Another blog Camp Wander talks about how you can make your very own Manuka honey! And here’s a link if you’re not sure what Manuka med honey is!