Contents
How to store propolis at home correctly and how much you can store it
Propolis, or bee glue, as it is also called, is produced by bees to seal up cracks, as well as to isolate foreign objects that have fallen into the hive. This resinous substance, colored dark brown or greenish, is used for medicinal purposes. You need to know how to store propolis at home so that it does not lose its valuable properties. Subject to all the rules, this product can be used for a long time by making oil or tincture from it.
How to store dry propolis?
Dry bee glue is much more convenient to store than diluted in oil, water or alcohol. This substance should be found:
- in a clean and dry place, where moisture and sunlight do not penetrate, with a temperature less than 25 degrees;
- in a sterile state, so that harmful substances, impurities and ordinary dirt are not present;
- separate from various poisons, chemicals, spices, and various products with a pungent odor.
How to store propolis at home: recommendations
Fresh propolis cannot be compared in its qualities with the one that has been lying somewhere for a long time, but if the latter is stored correctly, its effectiveness will remain the same.
How to properly store propolis: packaging
For ease of use, balls a little larger than a quail egg are created from propolis. To prevent the bee glue from deteriorating ahead of time, follow these recommendations:
- Wrap the gum in paper, parchment, or plastic bag.
- Now place the propolis in any glass container with a tight-fitting lid.
- Put the jar with it on one of the shelves in the closet or other secluded dark place.
Remember that bee glue cannot be stored in the refrigerator or in the kitchen cabinet above the stove, as the product will begin to crumble due to sudden temperature fluctuations.
How long can propolis be stored?
Should not be treated with propolis if it has expired. You can check this by breaking dry bee glue into pieces. Any fragile substance falling apart in your hands must be disposed of immediately. Propolis is stored:
- in a dry state – up to 5-6 years, you should not use it longer;
- as part of an alcoholic tincture – from 3 to 5 years, but only where it is dark and dry;
- as part of an aqueous tincture – about 7-10 days, and then deteriorates.
When buying bee glue, be sure to ask the seller about how long the workpiece will be stored. If he names a very short or too impressive period, then the bee glue probably contains impurities. It is better to give up such a product right away than to suffer from allergies or poisoning later.