Beeswax is an amazing natural substance that can be used in many ways to improve our lives. A book could be written about its uses... and probably has been written.
It's essential to purchase organic beeswax. In order to be certified organic, chemicals cannot be used on land within 3 miles of the beehive, as this is the bees' flying radius. This is no small endeavor, but absolutely worthwhile since fat soluble pesticides can accumulate in beeswax.
Uses for Beeswax
1. Lip Balm
Keep your lips moisturized during winter months with this natural protectant. It's easy to make, just add ½ ounce of beeswax to a small double boiler and melt on low heat. Then add 1 teaspoon of raw honey, 2 ounces of cold pressed organic olive oil and 2 ounces of cold pressed organic hemp seed oil and stir for 1 to 2 minutes. For a little flavor, add about 20 drops of organic peppermint oil and stir well. Remove from heat and store in lip balm tins.
2. Skin Moisturizer
Lock in your skin’s natural moisture with beeswax, and add the antioxidant vitamin E to help protect and repair rough, dry, or chapped skin. Melt 4 ounces of sweet organic almond oil and 1 ounce of beeswax in a double boiler. Remove from the heat, add 2 ounces of distilled water, and stir well. Add 10 drops of vitamin E oil and 10 drops of lavender essential oil, and stir continuously until the mixture has cooled. Pour into individual tins.
3. Candles
Creating a little ambiance without dripping or toxic smoke is easy with beeswax, and these candles give off the sweet smell of honey! All you need to make your own is beeswax sheets, a wick, a sharp knife, and a safe cutting surface.
4. Cooking
Beeswax helps with molding and locking in flavors. It is added to candies, such as Jelly Belly jelly beans and Haribo’s gummy bears. It’s also used to create the distinctive crunchy crust of the small French pastries called canelés, which are a real treat to make at home!
5. Itch Relief
You can make a salve that’s great for poison ivy, poison oak, and other itch causing adversaries. In a small saucepan, simmer 1 tablespoon of chickweed powder, 1 tablespoon of comfrey power, and 1 pint of organic olive oil for 3 hours. Strain, add 2 ounces of beeswax, and pour into individual tins.
6. Pain Relief
Beeswax can make an effective salve for aches and pains. In a small saucepan, simmer 1 tablespoon chickweed powder, 1 tablespoon wormwood powder, and 2 pints of sweet olive oil for 3 hours. Strain, add 3 ounces of beeswax and 10 drops of tea tree oil, and pour into individual tins.
7. Unstick a Drawer
If you have an old, beautiful bureau, maybe you have concerns getting those drawers to slide out smoothly. Apply a thin coat of beeswax to the wooden rails and they’ll be opening and closing like new! The same technique will also work on sliding glass doors that no longer glide smoothly.
8. Sealing Envelopes
Want to make your party invitations stand out? Create a seal with beeswax and use the right stamp to leave your impression.
†Results may vary. Information and statements made are for education purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.
