alternative treatments to chemicals. The first method I tried was removing entire sections of sealed Drone brood which of course the mites prefer due to a few more days 'free accommodation' and a longer breeding period. These 'sections' once removed were then placed in the 'sealed' Solar Wax extractor in the garden. The intense heat effectively killed all the 'unhatched' mites and an extra bonus of course was some more melted beeswax. NB: Do not remove ALL drone brood as this is the life-blood of the colony for future generations... Whatever you do however, do not under any circumstances allow the flying bees access to the sealed drone brood which you have removed. These industrious insects will clean up any surplus food and in doing so will release the trapped mites which can live for at least a few days outside the hive. I would be interested to know if anyone has monitored the life expectancy of the Varroa mite once it has been removed from its 'host'. Even though I did at first find the above method to be effective, it proved to be very laborious, messy, and time consuming. There is the added danger of course that once you start this method, unless you are very methodical in removing the sealed drone cells, you could end up with far too many drones, thus making things very much worse than before. I therefore set about trying other methods. At about this time, I became aware of an article on the Internet detailing the use of Essential Oils to combat Varroa. This very much appealed to me and I first of all did some research into the oils used: |
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Wintergreen Oil
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Olbas Oil, a nasal Inhalant/Decongestant contains a mixture of essential plant oils originated in Switzerland for relief of bronchial and nasal congestion, hayfever by inhalation and for symptomatic relief of muscular pain by application to the skin. It is non greasy and non staining.
Other uses: I have found it to be very efficient for treating bee stings. Application to the 'stung' area preferably within a minute or two of being stung has an immediate cooling effect. It also stops the itching, reduces, and in some cases also stops any swelling. I have done some research into the ingredients of Olbas Oil, details as follows:- Cajeput oil... This oil is extracted by steam distillation from the leaves and buds of the tree Melaleuca leucadendra. The oil is a greenish yellow colour and has a camphorous, strong, clear smell. It can be uplifting and purifying. Cajeput is a powerful antiseptic and acts on the respiratory system and digestive system and benefits the pulmonary, intestinal and urinary tracts. Properties: Antiseptic Anti-infectious Tonic Decongestant-useful for respiratory system Antirheumatic Contraindications Cajeput is a powerful stimulant and is not helpful to use before bedtime unless mixed with a sedative oil. Dilute well and use sparingly on the skin as it can act as an irritant During pregnancy use half the usual stated amount, this also applies for young children. Uses This oil is excellent as an inhalation for chronic pulmonary diseases such as tuberculosis, bronchitis, asthma, and also for the common cold and sinus trouble. It is also very effective as a mouthwash and in the event of toothache or tooth decay, one drop of the essence on the trouble some area brings relief. For earache, a piece of absorbent cotton soaked in the essence and placed gently in the ear will bring relief. It is a healer for open wounds, acne, sores, and psoriasis and used in a bath assists aching limbs and rheumatic conditions and helps to relieve nervous tension, neuralgia and general fatigue. Clove Oil The Clove Tree is a small evergreen related to the Myrtle, with pale grey leaves and a smooth bark. It is found in Sri Lanka, Madagascar and Malaysia. Cloves, the unexpanded dried flower buds, and their oil are used therapeutically. Clove oil is water-distilled from the clove buds and is a pale yellowy colour. It has a strong, pungent, spicy aroma. Properties Stimulant Antispasmodic Antineuralgic Antiseptic Anticancer Vermifuge (infestations) Aromatherapy uses Clove, when used as a massage oil, is excellent for rheumatism, arthritis, and sprains. Massaged over the stomach, it aids dyspepsia, flatulence, and stomach problems. Massaged over lower back during childbirth, it eases labour pains. Dotted on absorbent cotton, it acts very effectively on abscesses and toothache. As an antiseptic oil, it will help heal and prevent infection in wounds and ulcers. Clove is often used in the treatment of scabies and has been known to be used in treating cancer. Used in a vaporizer or burned in a room, it enhances concentration and acts as an aphrodisiac Clove also acts as an effective insect repellant and has action against parasitic conditions. It combines well with other antiseptic oils including lavender, thyme and bergamot. Food uses Clove is a warming, aromatic herb much used to flavour savory and sweet dishes. Clove tea is a warming, stimulating drink that causes sweating. It is useful for fevers, vomiting and nausea. (To be continued...) |
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Copyright
Jeff Davies - 1998-2005
