I bought peppermint oil at a health food store and paid $5 for 5 ml(less than a tablesppon), which seems very expensive. Does anyone know of a less expensive source, or even how to make oils from fresh mint leaves?
Also--while cleaning out some deep combs stored in my basement, I found many cells filled with a light brown or black, sawdust like, powder. (The combs were quite messy when I stored them.) The cell walls are intact, so I don't think the powder is due to wax moths.
Does anyone have any suggestions?
Many thanks to all the generous people who answer fellow beekeepers' questions. Your help is greatly appreciated!