Currently there are several methods used to treat bee hives with menthol.

Here we describe the 'Traditional' and the Blue Shop Towel' methods.

2) Measure and mix components:

Place four standard packs of menthol crystals (6.8 ozs. or 200 grams) in a 16 oz. pyrex measuring cup, then add canola oil to fill. Microwave for 4 mins. at 50% power. Check to see that all crystals dissolved--if not, microwave for an additional minute at 50% power.

Dump this heated menthol-canola mix into a 3 pound coffee can or similar sized container.

Alternately, you could melt the crystals with the canola oil in a 3 pound metal coffee can on an electric stove or hot plate using medium heat. You could also use a gas stove as shown on the right but be very careful. The mixture is flammable and the fumes are very potent.

3) Add paper towels:

Place one of the half-rolls of paper towels into the coffee can of warm menthol-canola oil.
Flip the towels in the can until all towels are evenly saturated. If one end of towels are somewhat dry, flip the towels putting dry end down--in about 10 minutes, all will be evenly saturated.

Thus, 16 ozs (2 cups) of menthol-canola oil mix will saturate a half-roll (55 half-sheets) of shop towels -- using 2 half-sheets per colony, this will treat 27 colonies.

Towels can be stored at room temperature indefinitely if held in a tightly sealed container. (A zip-Lock bag works nicely).

4) Apply to colonies:

Do not add to colonies while a honey flow is on.

Place one of the 1/2 sheets on the top bars at the front or back, (not right over the cluster) of each brood chamber. Colonies can be treated anytime during the winter when temperatures rise above about 45 F. The bees will chew up the paper towels and discard them at the entrance in 3-5 days (or longer in winter).          

Two treatments are required, so you must repeat the application in ten to fourteen days.

5) That's it. 

Note: The best time to treat is September. Tracheal mites are usually not a problem from May to September, so no menthol needs to be used until the time that mites begin to build up in late August or September.

Note: Use of menthol is at your own risk. No endorsement is made or implied by KVBA.

What is menthol ?

Menthol is a terpenoid, found in the essential oils of the mint family (Mentha spp), such as peppermint, spearmint and others. Menthol (C₁₀H₂₀O) is solid at room temperature, forming long crystals that have a fatty touch.

Menthol is poorly soluble in water, but readily soluble in alcohol or oils.

Besides the use as an aroma in many different food products (especially dental products, such as chewing gum, cough drops and confectionary, such as mints), menthol is contained in non-prescription products for short-term relief of minor sore throat and minor mouth or throat irritation, for example in lip balms and cough medicines. It is classed as an antipruritic, which reduces itching. Menthol is also contained in combination products used for relief of muscle aches, sprains, and similar conditions, as well as in decongestants. In addition, it is used as an additive in certain cigarette brands, both for flavor and to reduce the throat and sinus irritation caused by smoking. Menthol also is a common ingredient in mouthwash.