LAUSR

Simple Summary The impact of synthetic pesticides on non-target organisms has led to increased interest in environmentally friendly pest control methods, such as essential oils. To ensure these natural compounds are safe for pollinators, it is essential to assess their effects on honey bees. This study assessed the impacts of one commercially available essential oil mixture (EcoTec+) and four essential oil components (β-bisabolene, cinnamaldehyde, 1,8-cineole, and eugenol) on honey bee workers in a lab. EcoTec+ increased protective protein. Bisabolene decreased protective enzymes with no lethal effect. Cinnamaldehyde had mixed effects on protective enzyme activity and displayed toxicity when ingested. Cineole also had mixed effects on two of the four enzymes measured. Eugenol suppressed two protective enzymes and was toxic on contact. None of the compounds interacted significantly with the tested pesticides or inhibitors. Collectively, the essential oils studied did not pose a significant danger to honey bees and seem to be a generally safe alternative to certain synthetic pesticides.