Hanna's Bees, Clash Road, Little Island, Cork (2026)

06/06/2026

BEEKEEPING TIP: How to Make Soft Set Honey

Making Soft set honey is actually pretty straight forward once you understand the process. And yes, soft set honey goes by many different names such as creamed and whipped honey, but it is essentially the same: Honey that has granulated into very fine crystals so that the texture is smooth and the honey just melts in your mouth.

Soft set honey is not like other honeys, it takes time and patience to get it perfect and take on the thick, velvety consistency we adore. Here is how to make our delicious soft set honey, step by step:

1. Use 3-10% seed honey to make soft set honey. (Use smooth, crystallized honey or pound granulated honey until it reached desired consistency.)

2. Use liquid, non-crystallized honey or blend of honeys. The honey that is to be seeded needs to be liquid, non-granulated honey, and at room temperature. You can use either one type of honey, such as rapeseed, ivy or summer. Or you can use a blend of different honeys. Some honey can be very strong and may be blended with another honey to make it more palatable or smooth. Such as the strong ivy mixed with the blander rapeseed.

3. Put the seed honey into the bucket of liquid honey and mix for a couple of minutes. Keep mixing until all the honey has the same colour and there are no lumps of seed honey left.

4. Place cool, 14 degrees Celsius is ideal, for 12 hours.

5. After 12 hours, stir again for a couple of minutes and repeat for 1-4 days at 12-hour intervals. The amount of days this takes depends on the type of honey, amount of seed, temperature and how quickly it starts to set. As the honey begins to granulate you may need to place the bucket in room temperature for a while before stirring to get it soft enough to stir.

6. The honey is ready to jar when crystals have begun forming, and the honey has thickened considerably. You need to ensure that it is not too thick to pour so make sure you do not leave it for too long.

7. After stirring/mixing the last time, leave to settle for a couple of hours. This allows any bubbles to rise to the top. Then skim off any foam or bubbles, and jar.

8. Place jars at 14 degrees for up to two weeks until the honey has set.

Although making soft set honey is a relatively simple process, there are lots and lots of things that can go wrong. If you want to troubleshoot or if you just want to prepare yourself before you attempt to make a batch, go to https://hannasbees.ie/soft-set-honey/ where you will find the full blog.

04/06/2026

Can propolis help with warts?

Warts are small growths caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). They are common, often stubborn, and notoriously difficult to clear. Studies suggest that 7–12% of the general population has warts at any given time, with prevalence rising to 10–20% in children and teenagers. Standard treatments such as salicylic acid or cryotherapy remain the first line, but scientific research has also investigated whether antimicrobial propolis — the resin bees collect from plants — may help.

A clinical trial by Zedan and colleagues (2009), published in the International Journal of Dermatology, followed 135 patients with common, plane, and plantar warts over three months. Participants received either oral propolis (500 mg/day), echinacea, or a placebo.

The outcomes were clear: 73% of common warts and 75% of plane warts resolved completely in the propolis group, compared with only 8–15% in the placebo and echinacea groups. Plantar warts, which are typically the most treatment-resistant type, responded less well (17%). Patients whose warts cleared with propolis had no recurrences six months later.

The Zedan trial investigated oral propolis, not topical use. Research is now exploring how warts respond to propolis applied directly to the skin. While there are not yet peer-reviewed clinical trials showing that topical propolis, on its own or combined with salicylic acid, is an established cure, several patents and preliminary studies have reported encouraging results. These findings suggest real potential, and they reflect a growing interest in developing topical propolis treatments for warts. Until peer-reviewed studies are published, topical application should be regarded as promising but still experimental, whereas oral use already has clinical evidence to support it.

Propolis contains antiviral and immune-modulating compounds. In the Zedan study, oral propolis appears to have enhanced the body’s ability to target HPV-infected cells, aiding the clearance of lesions. This reflects broader findings that propolis can stimulate immune responses while suppressing viral activity.

Propolis has therefore shown strong clinical promise for common and plane warts when taken orally. Evidence for topical use is still developing, and for now propolis should be viewed as a complementary option rather than a replacement for established therapies.

⚠️ This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for persistent or severe skin conditions. Do not use propolis if you are allergic to bee products.

03/06/2026

RECIPE OF THE WEEK: Hot Honey

This week I wanted to share my recipe for Hot honey case you fancy making your own at home. Hot honey is a versatile kitchen staple — it lifts grilled meats and vegetables, adds a kick to pizza or eggs, pairs beautifully with a cheeseboard, and even works drizzled over vanilla ice cream. One customer told me she puts it on everything — and her husband confirmed it with a wink.

This recipe is also an excellent way to use up any honey that has started to crystallise. The recipe takes a few days to mature, and while heating all the ingredients would speed up the process, by not heating it we allow the flavours to infuse gently over time, preserving the natural goodness of the honey. If using raw chillies or garlic, it is best to refrigerate after a week or so of infusing or the garlic can start to ferment.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup wildflower honey
• 1–3 fresh chilli peppers, chopped (or use dried chillies if preferred)
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lime juice, 1–2 crushed garlic cloves

Method

- If using crystallised honey, first return it to liquid by standing the jar in a bowl of hot water for a while, stirring occasionally to break up crystals and move them closer to the warmth.
- Place the liquefied honey, chopped chillies, and salt in a clean jar.
- Add vinegar, lime juice, or garlic if you’d like extra depth of flavour
- Seal and leave the jar in a warm place for 3–5 days. Hotpress or warming cabinet is ideal. Stir or turn the jar daily to encourage infusion.
- Taste after a few days — when the heat is just right for you, strain out the chillies and garlic if desired.
- Store at room temperature if made with dried Chillies or refrigerate if made with fresh chillies or garlic. Enjoy within a couple of months.

Drizzle over fried chicken, stir into a marinade, or swirl through a salad dressing. Hot honey brings a bold, unexpected twist while keeping the natural health properties of raw honey intact.

Save this recipe to try later, and follow us for more for more delicious and unusual honey-recipes!

28/05/2026

FAQ: Can propolis really help with cold sores?

Cold sores, caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), are both painful and recurring. Propolis — a powerful substance made by bees from plant resins and enzymes — is a well-established ingredient in many cold sore treatments, from lip balms to medicated creams. It is recognised for its potent antiviral and healing properties and is used in both treatment and prevention of outbreaks.

Propolis is not just a fringe natural treatment for cold sores. Medical studies, including a 2021 systematic review in Phytotherapy Research, have shown that it can be more effective than Acyclovir, the most common pharmaceutical option, by promoting faster healing, reducing pain, and shortening outbreaks. This makes propolis both a trusted natural remedy and a recognised ingredient in mainstream cold sore care.

How to use propolis for cold sores

At the first sign of tingling or discomfort:

Apply a propolis oil, balm, or tincture directly to the affected area several times a day.
Use clean hands or a cotton bud to avoid introducing bacteria.
Consistent early use can help minimise severity and speed recovery.

Can propolis help prevent outbreaks?
Yes — many people take propolis as part of their daily wellness routine. Its antiviral, antioxidant, and immune-supporting properties are believed to make cold sore outbreaks less frequent, shorter, and milder, particularly during times of stress or illness. Options include tinctures, capsules, powders, or infused oils.

Like pollen and honey, propolis has been valued since ancient times as part of the bees’ natural pharmacy. Today, it is increasingly recognised for its role in supporting the body against viral infections such as HSV.

Discover Hanna’s Bees propolis products in our online shop, or read a more in-depth article with links to the medical research here: https://hannasbees.ie/cold-sore-treatments-using-propolis/

⚠️ Medical disclaimer: This post is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Propolis is not suitable for everyone. If you have allergies to bee products, are pregnant, breastfeeding, on medication, or have a medical condition, consult a healthcare professional before use.

27/05/2026

BEE-SPLAINING: Why is there no Organic Honey produced in Ireland?

ALL organic honey sold in Ireland is produced outside of Ireland. Sounds nuts? Yep, and unfortunately it is true. We don't produce any organic honey in Ireland. Not one drop. So if you want to eat organic honey, your only option is to buy imported honey. Imported honey can be problematic in its own right, but we'll discuss that another day!

So why don't Irish beekeepers produce organic honey when there is demand for such a premium product? The reason is two-fold.

First, there is no certification for organic honey in Ireland. Even if we wee able to produce Organic honey, it could not get certified.

Second, in order for honey to be organic, not only do the bees have to be managed according to organic principles (which, coincidentally a large portion of Irish bees are as we have very strict regulations in relation to registration, medication, treatment and feeding). They also have to forage on organic crops and flowers.

It is this last part that makes it next to impossible to produce organic honey in Ireland. This is because Honeybees will fly long distances to visit flowers. They usually forage within a 2-3 Kilometer radius of the hive, but have been recorded to forage as far away as 13.5 kilometers (von Frisch, K, 1967). This means that in order for the forage (flowers), and the resulting honey, to be deemed organic, all crops, plants and forestry within that area need to be either organic or unmanaged.

Our Beautiful Irish countryside is such a magnificent patchwork of fields, hedgerows, ditches, farms, wilderness and forestry. It produces some of the best honey in the world, often taking top spot at international honey competitions. Coincidentally, it is precisely this diversity in our landscape and farming that the very reason why there is no organic honey produced in Ireland...

So if you want to get the best honey, next time you're in the supermarket or the health food shop - Don't reach for the Organic honey thinking it is better, reach for the Irish honey. Locally produced by Irish bees. THAT it better for you!

Want to know more? Find out the full story at Hanna's Bees

26/05/2026

Reader’s Question: Why do some bee colonies make more propolis than others?

Beekeepers often observe that certain colonies deposit large amounts of propolis while others show only minimal traces. This difference arises from three main factors:

1. Genetics
Propolis production is a genetic trait. Some colonies are predisposed to gather more resin and produce stronger propolis envelopes. Research consistently shows that this behaviour correlates with improved colony health. In propolis-rich colonies:

Brood viability can be up to 50% higher than in propolis-poor colonies.

Pathogen loads are lower in the nest environment, so worker bees show reduced activation of immune responses, conserving energy for brood care and foraging.

Worker bees live longer, increasing foraging strength and overall colony resilience.

Far from reducing honey yields, propolis-rich colonies often maintain larger, healthier populations with high productivity.

2. Exposure to pathogens
Bees also increase resin collection when exposed to harmful pathogens. Colonies challenged with fungal pathogens such as chalkbrood respond by intensifying resin foraging. Colonies with high Varroa destructor infestations similarly collect more resin. While propolis does not directly kill Varroa mites, it reduces the impact of associated viruses such as Deformed Wing Virus and helps stabilise the microbial environment of the hive.

In this way, increased resin collection functions as a colony-level immune response: a form of self-medication that strengthens the social immune system and lowers pathogen pressure.

3. Hive environment
The structure and make of the hive itself influences propolis production and bees also use propolis to regulate airflow, sealing cracks before winter and helping maintain stable internal conditions. In natural settings, honeybees nest in rough-walled cavities where abundant crevices encourage resin deposition and the development of a continuous antimicrobial propolis envelope. Modern hives, constructed from smooth planed timber, do not stimulate this behaviour to the same extent.

Providing rough-sawn interiors, propolis traps, or additional cavities encourages bees to reinforce their nest with resin. Colonies that establish a strong propolis envelope show lower pathogen loads and improved overall stability.

In short: The amount of propolis a colony produces is determined by genetic predisposition, exposure to pathogens, and the environment provided. Rather than breeding against this sticky trait, beekeepers can benefit from encouraging propolis production, as it strengthens colonies and supports their natural resilience.

25/05/2026

FAQ: Bee pollen has become a popular superfood — but why do people eat it?

Bee pollen has been prized since ancient times and is still sought after today as one of nature’s most nutrient-rich foods. It has become popular as a functional food, providing not just nutrition but also support for health and wellness. You will often see it in health food shops, enjoyed by people interested in a natural diet and lifestyle.

Here are the key reasons people add bee pollen to their diet:
Nutritional powerhouse – A natural source of protein, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, bee pollen is often described as one of the most complete foods available.
Immune support – Many people take bee pollen to help strengthen their immune system and support seasonal wellness.
Hay fever & sinusitis – Consuming small amounts of local pollen is believed to help the body adapt to airborne pollens, easing hay fever and sinus problems for some.
Gut health – Its enzymes and natural compounds are thought to aid digestion and support a balanced gut. Antioxidant qualities – Rich in bioactive compounds, pollen is associated with fighting free radicals and supporting overall vitality.

The taste of bee pollen is pleasantly fruity, with a gentle hint of sweetness — but not as sweet as honey. Its consistency is dry and slightly chalky, which is why it is best enjoyed sprinkled over foods, where it absorbs a little moisture and softens. Enjoy it sprinkled over:
Yoghurt or porridge
Smoothies or smoothie bowls
Fresh salads
Healthy grain or lunch bowls

Start with just a few pellets a day and build up gradually to a spoonful. Its mild, floral taste makes it an easy addition to everyday meals.

Like honey and propolis, bee pollen connects us to a long tradition of natural nourishment from the hive — increasingly recognised today as a functional food valued for both its nutrition and its role in supporting wellbeing.

Order Hanna’s Bees pollen from one of our resellers or in our online shop!

⚠️ Medical disclaimer: Bee pollen is not suitable for everyone. If you are allergic to bee products or are taking medication, consult a healthcare professional before consuming. This post is educational and not a substitute for medical advice.

21/05/2026

Do you want to come beekeeping with me?

For years, one of the most common questions I have been asked is whether people can come and see the bees, visit the garden, greenhouses and apiary, or experience beekeeping for themselves.

The answer is finally yes.

We have officially launched our new hands-on beekeeping experiences at Hanna’s Bees, with more seasonal tours, workshops and experiences planned to follow.

In our first tour, guests have a chance to experience beekeeping in a traditional Irish cottage garden, where our honey bees form a vital part of our little homestead ecosystem.

Surrounded by flowers, herbs, fruit and seasonal kitchen garden produce, this fully immersive small-group visit takes guests through the pollinator-rich garden and greenhouses and into the apiary to experience how bees make honey, from flower to jar.

Guests will suit up, step into the apiary, explore a living honey bee colony, learn about pollination and traditional honey production, and harvest and jar freshly extracted honey to take home.

Places for the 2026 season are limited, with intentionally small group sizes designed to create a relaxed and memorable visit while minimising disruption to the bees.

Book your beekeeping experience here: https://hannasbees.ie/shop/beekeeping-experience/

For family or private group bookings, educational visits, or workplace and team-building experiences, simply send us a message to enquire.

21/05/2026

BEEKEEPING TIP: How to Make your Own Propolis Tincture

Are you a beekeeper and curious about how to make propolis products? Many people don't know where to start, but the easiest way is to make your own Propolis Tincture. Follow this step by step guide :

Ingredients
Raw propolis
Food-grade alcohol (un-denatured alcohol or ethanol) of 65-80% ABV

Step 1
Measure one part of raw propolis by weight and combine it with three parts of clear grain alcohol (65-80% ABV) by weight. It's essential to use food-grade alcohol and avoid rubbing alcohol or denatured alcohol, as they should not be ingested. If you can't find high-proof alcohol, use the highest proof available, but keep in mind that the solution may not be as concentrated.

Step 2
Place the propolis and alcohol mixture into a glass jar or wide-mouthed bottle. Secure the lid tightly and shake the mixture vigorously to ensure proper mixing.

Step 3
Store the propolis tincture mix in a dark place. Room temperature is sufficient, but if you can, consider using a hot-press or heating cabinet set at hive temperature for even better results.

Step 4
Shake the jar or bottle a couple of times daily for up to three weeks. This allows the propolis to infuse into the alcohol thoroughly.

Step 5
After three weeks, strain the mixture to remove any solid particles. You can use muslin, a coffee filter, or a sieve for this purpose. Pour the filtered tincture into a food-grade jar or preferably a dark glass bottle. The tincture should now be clear and dark in colour.

Step 6
If there's some propolis left in the filter that hasn't dissolved, you can keep it and reuse it to make another propolis tincture. Either return it to the glass jar and cover it with alcohol immediately or freeze it for later use.

I hope you find this guide helpful! Enjoy your homemade propolis tincture and explore its potent health benefits.

Follow Hanna’s Bees for more posts like this.

20/05/2026

Happy World Bee Day!

I can’t wait for the weather to improve so I can go out and catch me some swarms! Sound on for this one as they can be a noisy lot when they swarm - but it’s all good vibrations! 🐝 ❤️

Hanna's Bees

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