Wax extracted from honeycomb produced by honeybees and other species of bees is called “bees wax.” In order to produce one pound of beeswax, bees need to ingest around eight times as much honey and fly 150,000 miles. When pollen oils are combined with honeycomb wax, the color of the wax changes from white to a yellowish or brownish hue. Beeswax can typically be purchased in one of three colors: yellow, white, or bleached. Yellow beeswax is obtained from the honeycomb in its natural state, while white and bleached beeswax is produced by processing yellow beeswax. There are synthetic beeswax products on the market that are designed to mimic the appearance of natural beeswax.
In the field of medicine, beeswax is employed for both the reduction of cholesterol and the alleviation of pain. In addition, it is utilized in the treatment of hiccups, ulcers, diarrhea, and swelling (inflammation).
As thickening agents, white beeswax and beeswax absolute (yellow beeswax that has been processed with alcohol) are frequently utilized in culinary and beverage preparations.
In the production of cosmetics, yellow and white beeswax is utilized in the roles of thickeners, emulsifiers, and substances that impart a stiffening quality. Soaps and fragrances both make use of beeswax absolute as a fragrant ingredient. In addition, white beeswax and beeswax absolute are utilized in the polishing of tablets.
How Does It Work?
The anti-inflammatory and mildly anti-swelling actions of beeswax are widely known. In addition to this, there is some evidence to suggest that it may help protect the stomach.
Uses & Effectiveness
There is insufficient evidence to assess the efficacy of…
- Scattered punctures in the anus (anal fissures). Initial studies suggest that applying a combination of beeswax, honey, and olive oil to the affected area over a period of twelve hours will alleviate symptoms such as pain, bleeding, and itching that is caused by anal fissures.
- Rash from the diaper. The results of some preliminary studies suggest that reducing the symptoms of diaper rash can be achieved by applying a combination of beeswax, honey, and olive oil to the affected area four times each day for seven days.
- Hemorrhoids. An early study found that putting a mixture of beeswax, honey, and olive oil to the affected area for a period of 12 hours helped lessen the pain, bleeding, and itching associated with hemorrhoids.
- The ringworm (tinea corporis). Initial studies suggest that treating ringworm using a mixture of beeswax, honey, and olive oil and applying it to the affected area three times per day for a period of four weeks is effective.
Side Effects
When consumed orally as food or medicine, or when applied topically directly to the skin, beeswax is likely to not cause adverse effects for the vast majority of people.
Special Precautions & Warnings
There is not enough trustworthy information available about the safety of consuming beeswax if you are pregnant or breastfeeding at this time. Beeswax is not recommended for use during these times. You should avoid using it to be on the safe side.
Dosing
The right amount of beeswax to take is determined by a number of criteria, including the age of the user, their current state of health, and a number of other situations. There is not currently a sufficient amount of scientific knowledge available to define an optimal range of doses for the use of beeswax. It is vital to keep in mind that natural products are not always guaranteed to be safe and that dosages can sometimes be very significant.
