Apis mellifera
The Honey bee was designated the official state insect in 1977, primarily because bee pollination is critical to plant and animal survival, not to mention the added bonus of beeswax and honey. There are 16 other states that recognize the honeybee as an official state symbol because of its important role in agriculture. Apis mellifera did not exist in the New World prior to the arrival of the Europeans, but other native honey bee species were kept and traded by indigenous peoples. Bee motifs have surfaced in Mayan, Ancient Near East and Aegean cultures, where they have the designation of bridging the natural world with the metaphysical.
In ancient Egypt, the bee was a symbol of kingship. The Merovingians used the honey bee to signify immortality and resurrection, and this practice was revived by Napoleon. In heraldry, the bee symbolizes diligence and tireless effort, and the corporate psychology is often referred to as the “hive mind”. In “War and Peace”, Tolstoy compares modern society to a community of bees.
We are lucky to have access to plenty of local honey, which can be found at the Saturday Farmer’s Market and Marsolan’s Feed and Seed. Most local health food stores carry bee pollen as well, used to help strengthen the immune system and combat allergies. Children under the age of 1 should not consume raw honey, consult your health care provider.
Learn about how you can create your own Bee Garden, with bee-friendly plants and tips, as well as a cute DIY bee motel! Read it here: www.plantedwell.com
