INTRODUCTION
Beeswax is a natural wax secreted by honeybees from glands on their abdomen. It is used to construct honeycombs for storing honey and pollen, as well as for raising their young. Beeswax is typically yellow or brown, has a pleasant aroma, and is used in various products like candles, cosmetics, and food wraps.
Medicinal Properties
Beeswax has several medicinal properties that make it useful in healing. It can reduce inflammation, soothe irritated skin, and is effective in preventing infections due to its antibacterial nature. Beeswax also helps fight fungal infections, making it beneficial for treating skin issues like athlete’s foot. Often used in creams and ointments, it provides a natural protective barrier while promoting healing.
Forms
Beeswax comes in several forms, including:
- Beeswax Pellets: Small, uniform beads that melt easily, ideal for crafting and cosmetic formulations.
- Beeswax Bars or Blocks: Solid chunks of beeswax that can be cut into smaller pieces as needed.
- Beeswax Sheets: Thin, flexible sheets used for making candles or crafts.
- Beeswax Wraps: Fabric coated with beeswax, used as a sustainable alternative to plastic wrap for food storage.
- Beeswax Candles: Candles made from pure beeswax, known for their natural honey scent and slow burning properties.
- Beeswax Ointments or Balms: Beeswax blended with oils for skin care products, providing a barrier and moisture retention.
How is Beeswax Produced?
Young worker bees are fed copious amounts of honey inside the hive, and their bodies digest the honey, using the nutrients to form wax which is secreting in thin scales from wax gland in their abdomens. The wax scales are gathered by other worker bees, who chew it to soften it, making it pliable enough to be formed into cell walls. Through this process, bee colonies create the comb in which they raise new bees, transform pollen into “bee bread,” and store honey.
Health Benefits
Beeswax has a multitude of natural benefits, and although it is edible, beeswax is most commonly added to everyday personal care routines. A few advantages to using beeswax include:
Moisturizing Components
Beeswax locks in moisture and can help keep the skin firm and plump. The anti-allergenic and anti-inflammatory properties soothe easily irritated skin, making it one of the best skincare ingredients for healing rosacea or eczema.
Ability to Protect from Irritants
Beeswax can also act as a layer of protection when applied to the skin. It can protect the skin from environmental irritants and extreme weather.
Promotion of Hair Growth
Beeswax not only moisturizes and soothes hair, but it can keep natural moisture from getting out of the hair. It also stimulates hair growth and reduces hair loss.
Heals Wounds
With its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, beeswax helps in healing minor cuts, burns, and abrasions. It forms a protective barrier that keeps the area clean and speeds up recovery.
Respiratory Relief
Burning beeswax candles can help purify the air and may provide relief from allergies and asthma by reducing airborne allergens.
Anti-Aging Properties
Beeswax contains Vitamin A, which promotes skin regeneration and may help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
Side Effects
Beeswax is LIKELY SAFE for most people when taken by mouth as food or as a medicine, or when applied directly to the skin.
