Treat with menthol crystals

Place 50g of menthol crystals on the top bars or in a mesh bag inside the hive. The crystals sublimate into vapor that is toxic to Acarapis woodi mites inside the tracheae, killing them over a 2-4 week treatment period.

Why It Works

Menthol vapor penetrates the bees' tracheal system and disrupts mite respiration. Sublimation rate depends on hive temperature — effective between 60-80°F (15-27°C). Below 60°F the crystals release too little vapor; above 80°F the concentration can stress bees.

Tips

• Apply in late summer or early fall when daytime temperatures are consistently 60-80°F
• Place crystals on a piece of cardboard or in a mesh pouch on top bars to allow airflow
• Remove after 3-4 weeks or when crystals are fully sublimated
• Menthol is approved for use in organic beekeeping under most certification programs