How to Prepare a Glycerine Tincture from Propolis: A Guide for Those Avoiding Alcohol
Propolis is a highly valued bee product with numerous health benefits. Traditionally, propolis tinctures are prepared using alcohol, which efficiently dissolves active substances. However, for those avoiding alcohol, a glycerine tincture offers an excellent alternative. In this article, we will present two methods for preparing a tincture: one directly in glycerine and the other using initial extraction with alcohol. We will also discuss their benefits and limitations.
Why Glycerine?
Glycerine is a safe, non-toxic solvent with a sweet taste, commonly used in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Although it is less effective than alcohol in extracting active substances from propolis, it can serve as a good alternative for individuals avoiding ethanol.
Method 1: Direct Extraction in Glycerine
Ingredients:
• 20 g of raw propolis (we recommend doubling the amount compared to traditional alcohol-based methods to compensate for glycerine’s lower effectiveness).
• 100 ml of plant-based glycerine (food-grade or pharmaceutical grade).
Preparation:
Crush the propolis—freeze it for 30 minutes and then grate or break it into small pieces.
Place the propolis in a glass jar and pour in the glycerine.
Seal the jar tightly and leave it in a warm place (20–25°C).
Shake the jar daily to accelerate the extraction process.
After 4–6 weeks, filter the tincture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove insoluble residues.
Transfer the final tincture to a dark glass bottle.
Expected final concentration:
• Approximately 2–2.5% active substances (due to glycerine’s lower effectiveness).
Benefits:
• Easy to make.
• Alcohol-free.
Limitations:
• Lower extraction efficiency in terms of quantity and quality.
• Not all active substances (e.g., essential oils) are effectively extracted.
Method 2: Initial Alcohol Extraction Followed by Glycerine Substitution
Ingredients:
• 20 g of raw propolis.
• 100 ml of alcohol (70–95%).
• 100 ml of plant-based glycerine.
Preparation:
Crush the propolis and place it in a glass jar.
Add alcohol and store in a dark place for 1–2 weeks, shaking daily.
After maceration, filter the extract through cheesecloth.
Optionally: partially evaporate the alcohol by heating the extract in a water bath (do not exceed 50°C) until the volume is reduced by half.
Add glycerine to the remaining extract in a 1:1 ratio (e.g., 50 ml of concentrated extract to 50 ml of glycerine).
Mix thoroughly and transfer to a dark bottle.
Expected final concentration:
• Approximately 5% active substances, depending on the degree of alcohol evaporation.
Benefits:
• Higher extraction efficiency, as alcohol extracts more active substances from propolis.
• Reduced alcohol content in the final product.
Limitations:
• More time-consuming and requires precision.
• The final product may contain trace amounts of alcohol.
Which Method Is Right for You?
• If you aim to avoid alcohol entirely, choose Method 1—it is simpler and safer, though less effective.
• If you seek a more concentrated tincture and can accept trace amounts of alcohol, try Method 2.
Note: Always perform an allergy test before using propolis, as it can cause allergic reactions. If you have any questions about propolis or its processing, feel free to contact us—we’re here to help!