Propolis mat 10 frame

A propolis mat is a specially designed tool used by beekeepers to collect propolis from beehives. Propolis is a resinous substance produced by bees from tree sap, resins, and other plant materials. Bees use it to seal gaps in the hive, line the walls, and even embalm invaders like rodents or other pests. Propolis has natural antiseptic, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties, and it’s used in various products, including health supplements, cosmetics, and even for its potential medicinal benefits.

What a Propolis Mat Is:

A propolis mat is typically a flexible, mesh-like mat or sheet made from materials such as plastic, silicone, or fabric. The mat is placed inside the beehive, usually over the frames or on top of the hive entrance. The bees will naturally coat the mat with propolis as they work to seal off the hive from outside contaminants.

How It Works:

1. Placement in the Hive: The mat is positioned in the hive, often on top of the frames or near the entrance, where bees naturally deposit propolis.
2. Bees Deposit Propolis: Over time, as bees collect resins from trees and plants, they bring the material back to the hive. They apply it to the mat, just as they would apply propolis to the walls and cracks within the hive.
3. Propolis Collection: After a period of time, the mat will be covered with propolis. Beekeepers can then remove the mat from the hive, which has a significant amount of propolis attached to it.
4. Extraction: Once the mat is removed, beekeepers can harvest the propolis. The mat can be placed in a freezer for a short time, which makes the propolis brittle and easier to scrape off. Alternatively, some beekeepers use a technique that involves gently warming the mat, which allows the propolis to soften and separate from the mesh or fabric.
5. Harvesting and Processing: After extracting the propolis, it can be cleaned and processed into various forms, such as raw propolis, tinctures, or for other commercial uses.

Benefits of Using a Propolis Mat:

• Efficient Collection: The mat offers an easy and efficient way to gather propolis without disrupting the hive too much.
• Minimal Disturbance to Bees: Since the mat is placed inside the hive, the bees continue their natural activities, and there’s minimal interference with the colony.
• Cleaner Propolis: The mat helps ensure the propolis is separated from the other hive materials, making the extraction process cleaner and easier.

A propolis mat is an invaluable tool for beekeepers who want to harvest propolis regularly while maintaining the health and integrity of their hives.