The Science

Our formula utilizes the phenolic power of Carvacrol and Thymol – the primary bioactive monoterpenes in oregano to disrupt the nervous system and metabolic processes of the Varroa destructor and small hive beetle. By suspending these volatile oils in a coconut oil, we achieve a controlled release rate that extends the efficacy of the treatment. The medium-chain fatty acids in the coconut oil act as a stable carrier ensuring the phenols remain active throughout the hive’s thermal fluctuations without compromising the colony’s olfatory communication.

Carvacrol and Thymol act as a natural miticide and antifungal agent. Research has shown that oregano oil vapors can achieve up to 97% efficacy in reducing Varroa mite populations when delivered consistently, while maintaining low toxicity for worker bees.

Coconut oil provides a lipid barrier and serves as an attractant for bees while acting as a stabilizer for the oregano oil preventing rapid evaporation.

Why Fat Matters: The Battle for Bee Health. Most people think Varroa mites just hitch a ride on bees. In reality, mites feed directly on a bee’s fat bodies-the vital organ that functions like a liver and an immune system combined. When a bee loses its fat stores, it loses its ability to fight disease, survive the winter, and nurse the next generation.

Mite Jam provides a fatty defense

The Extra Layer: By boosting the bee’s lipid (fat) levels, you are giving them a biological shield that supports their natural resilience and strength.Our mission is to challenge the status quo, embrace innovation, and create meaningful, lasting impact through everything we do. Driven by a vision to inspire change, push boundaries, we deliver work that truly makes a difference.

Protective Nutrition: Our cold-pressed organic coconut oil is rich in healthy fats and amino acids, helping your bees replenish what the mites have stolen.

FAQs

• Can you taste it in the honey? The honey does not taste like oregano.
• Does the Oregano oil affect the Queen’s fertility or pheromones? It does not. Current research suggests that when applied in controlled concentrations, the phenols in Oregano (Carvacrol & Thymol) do not interfere with the Queen’s mandibular pheromones. However, the dose is critical. Our formulation is calibrated and has been tested on our hives. Remaining at a low consistent level prevents triggers of queen piping or supersedure behaviors. By utilizing coconut oil as a stabilizer we prevent the quick evaporation that can cause localized high-concentration pockets of vapor that would distress the Queen.
• Is this formula safe for brood? Yes, the primary risk to brood with volatile oils is the potential for dehydration. The lauric acid in coconut oil acts as a humectant, slowing the vapor release. Studies show moderate exposure to thymol-based vapors can actually upregulate the immune-related genes in larvae, potentially making them more resilient to common viruses like deformed wing virus (DMV).
• Can the bees digest coconut oil safely? Yes, honeybees require lipids for the production of royal jelly and for the health of their fat bodies. (the bee’s version of a liver & immune system). Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are more easily broken down by bees. MCTs provide an immediate energy source and have been shown to inhibit the germination of Nosema spores within the midgut.
• Does the treatment leave residues in the wax or honey? It does not. Carvacrol and thymol are naturally occurring in many nectar sources. Our formula is consider a soft lipid which does not accumulate in the beeswax over years of treatments. When hard synthetic treatments are used there is a buildup of chemical toxicity and the wax becomes tainted.