Bee Diseases, Treatments, and Prevention in the Folklore of the Ordu-Giresun Region in Türkiye

Abstract

The Eastern Black Sea Region, which has a very important position in honeybee breeding, stands out with its valuable nectar and pollen resources for bees, thanks to its rich plant species. In this region, beekeeping is carried out intensively and traditional knowledge is also used. This research aimed to reveal the folkloric data related to bee diseases, their treatments, and prevention from the disease in Ordu-Giresun Region, evaluate the obtained data with rational data, and contribute to veterinary medicine folklore, in particular beekeeping. The study material consisted of the data obtained from 39 volunteers, who were determined to have good knowledge about beekeeping in Ordu-Giresun Region, between 26 August 2017 and 20 September 2018. The data obtained from the participants were specified in the results section as a superscript at the end of each data. The information compiled using the information compilation form was analyzed under “bee diseases, treatments and prevention” and “hive disinfection and bee immunity”. The study determined that the data obtained on six different bee diseases and food poisoning in bees were generally compatible with the literature on the subject. As a result, it can be stated that the folkloric medicine based on experience regarding bee diseases, treatments, and protection from diseases continues to be practiced today in Ordu-Giresun Region, but the source persons could not provide or have no knowledge about viral diseases of bees and poisoning caused by pesticides; however, folkloric methods applied in beekeeping are sensible and rational in the light of scientific data. Keywords: Bee, Folklore, Ordu-Giresun Region, Türkiye.