Best Alcohol for Propolis Tincture – How to Source

As a beekeeper, you understand the value of propolis – that sticky, resinous substance bees gather from trees and plants to build their communal immune system. Propolis tincture is a valuable product for its potential health benefits and various applications. However, one of the challenges beekeepers often face is sourcing the right alcohol for creating propolis tincture. How to source the right alcohol for Propolis tincture is one of the questions I get asked by beekeepers al the time! In this blog post, we’ll explore the various options available to you.

The Quest for the Right Alcohol

Propolis dissolves best in alcohol with a proof of about 65-70. If intended for internal use, you must use Pure grain alcohol (Ethanol, un-denatured alcohol). This specific alcohol content ensures optimal extraction of the active compounds present in propolis. Propolis will dissolve in higher and lower strengths, but less effectively. Sourcing this alcohol might seem difficult, especially in Ireland, but there are several routes you can consider:

Read more about How to make Propolis tincture here: How To Make Propolis Tincture

1. Importing from Abroad

If you have connections abroad, particularly in places like Poland, Eastern Europe, Spain, Portugal or France, importing alcohol for your propolis tincture might be a viable solution. Polish vodka like Spirytus Rektyfikowany (96%), for instance, can serve this purpose well if diluted with a lower alcohol spirit like vodka. However, keep in mind that sourcing alcohol internationally might come with challenges, especially post-Brexit. Most UK suppliers do not ship to Ireland due to increased shipping costs and customs complexities. In the US, everclear is the preferred brand for those making their own Propolis Tincture.

2. Online Platforms

One of the easiest ways to acquire the high-proof undenatured or grain alcohol you need is through online platforms like Amazon or eBay. Suppliers from various parts of Europe offer the alcohol and many will ship. While this option is convenient, be aware of potential issues such as breakage during transit and higher costs due to delivery charges. It’s advisable to avoid ordering from UK suppliers to prevent significant customs fees that might outweigh the product’s cost.

3. Pharmaceutical Suppliers

Pharmaceutical companies often deal with undenatured alcohol, which could be suitable for creating propolis tincture. However, purchasing from pharmaceutical suppliers or pharmacies is not straightforward. If you have connections within the industry, this avenue could be worth exploring.

4. Using Lower-Grade Alcohol

While high-proof undenatured alcohol is the preferred choice for extracting propolis’s beneficial compounds, some beekeepers have resorted to using lower-grade alcohol, simply because it is available. While this might be a more accessible option, it’s important to note that the quality of the tincture might be compromised, and the extraction might not be as effective.

Important Considerations

• Avoid Denatured or Rubbing Alcohol: Under no circumstances should you use denatured or rubbing alcohol for internal use. These types of alcohol contain toxic additives that are unsafe for consumption.
• Quality Matters: The quality of the alcohol you use directly affects the quality of your propolis tincture. It’s worth investing in the right type of alcohol to ensure you’re getting the most out of your propolis extraction.
• Keep away from children (and teenagers) and pets. Store in a locked place.

In Conclusion

Sourcing the appropriate alcohol for your propolis tincture can be a challenge, but it’s not an insurmountable one. Consider importing from abroad, exploring online platforms, leveraging pharmaceutical connections if possible, or using lower-grade alcohol if no other options are available. Regardless of the route you choose, prioritize safety and quality – never compromise the health of the consumers of your propolis tincture.

While it may be difficult to obtain suitable alcohol for propolis tincture, remember that the alcohol won’t go off, so you can use it for many years, you only need small quantities to make tincture. With determination and resourcefulness, you can create high-quality propolis tincture, a truly remarkable bee product for its many health properties.

View our Propolis Tincture in our Online Shop, or purchase from our Resellers.

Hanna Bäckmo

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