The Simplest Propolis Tincture Recipe

Packed with beneficial antioxidants and other powerful nutrients, this high-potency propolis tincture recipe is easy to make. Using only two simple ingredients, this is a staple to keep in your homemade medicine cabinet.

Making propolis tincture is a fantastic way to easily consume the powerful benefits of bee propolis. Propolis is a sticky, resin-like substance that’s packed with beneficial compounds that support the immune system, soothe sore throats, and promote overall health in the body. Making your own propolis tincture is straightforward and uses only a handful of ingredients and tools (and it’ll also save you a ton of money)!

What is propolis?

Propolis, also known as “bee glue”, is a resinous mixture honey bees collect from tree buds, sap flows, and other botanical sources. Bees use it as a building material and to protect their hive from bacteria and fungi. Raw propolis usually contains plant resins, beeswax, essential oils, and pollen.

Healing properties of propolis

Supports the immune system – Propolis contains phenolic compounds and caffeic acid, which have been shown to boost the body’s immune response and to fight certain infections.

Soothes sore throats – The anti-inflammatory properties of propolis can help relieve throat irritation and discomfort.

Promotes wound healing – In topical use, propolis has been found to accelerate healing due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.

Anti-inflammatory – Packed with anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce pain caused by inflammation.

How to make propolis tincture

Tools

• A glass jar (a dark glass mason jar is preferred to protect the tincture from UV light)
• Paper coffee filter, fine mesh strainer, or cheesecloth (a glass french press would also work!) 
• Small amber glass bottles with dropper tops – You can use any glass storage jar, but I like the dropper tops because they make dosing easier. I use these ones.
• A knife or coffee grinder for chopping up propolis
• A small funnel

Supplies

• Raw or clean propolis (small pieces or powdered propolis work best) – I used this source, already came ground. If you can, I’d recommend you find a local beekeeper to source your propolis from, so you know it’s high quality.
• 80-proof unflavoured vodka, grain alcohol, ethyl alcohol, or food grade alcohol

For complete measurements, see the printable recipe card below.

Step-by-step propolis tincture recipe

WARNING: propolis will stain everything it touches, so protect your work surfaces.

The first step is to grind up the propolis chunks.

If using chunks of propolis, grind them into small pieces with a coffee grinder. Propolis will stain everything it touches so consider buying one from a thrift store for the purpose of grinding up this and other plant material for tincture making! You can make the grinding process easier by freezing the propolis in a plastic baggie for a day or so prior to grinding it.

Place the propolis in a glass jar and cover it with alcohol. You want to make sure everything is completely covered by alcohol.

Add a lid and shake the jar. Set it in a warm dark place. I like to set mine on our hot water, non-electric radiators. You could set yours near a wood stove (not on top – that would be too hot) or in another warm place in your home.

Aim to shake the jar gently every day or so.

Leave it sit for 6-8 weeks to make a high concentration propolis tincture.

Strain off the slurry of propolis using a paper coffee filter or cheesecloth into a dark glass bottle. I like to do a few strains to make sure the resinous materials are removed from the tincture.

Store the tincture (should be a clear dark fluid) in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

How much propolis tincture to take?

As always, speak to your herbalist or healthcare professional before starting a new herbal remedy. You can take 3-6 drops diluted in a liquid up to 3 times per day. 

Cautions

• Avoid if you have a known allergy to bees or bee-related products.
• There isn’t enough research on its safety during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so avoid using it or consult a healthcare provider before use.
• Propolis will leave stains on skin, fabric, and other surfaces.

How long does propolis tincture last?

If stored in a dark glass bottle away from direct sunlight, this herbal tincture can last a long time. I like to use mine within 2 years.

How to use propolis tincture

• Directly – You can take the dosage directly under your tongue. Hold it there for 30 seconds and then swallow.
• Diluted – The tincture is strong tasting, so you can dilute the flavour by mixing it with water, herbal tea, raw honey, or a squeeze of lemon juice.

How to make this without alcohol

You can simply swap the alcohol for store-bought apple cider vinegar or food-grade glycerin. Vinegar and glycerin aren’t as good as alcohol at extracting the beneficial compounds or preserving them. I like to consume vinegar-based extracts within about 6 months and glycerin-based extracts within a year. Here’s a complete guide for easily making glycerin tinctures.

Disclaimer – I’m not a medical professional and do not intend to offer medical advice in any content I create. I offer information for educational purposes and, as always, get your physician’s advice or the advice of your health care provider before trying a new herbal remedy. There are always possible unintended consequences of trying a new herbal remedy such as an allergic reaction or unexpected side effects like interactions with other medication. 

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