– Natural beeswax is brittle and easily crumbles when cold, at temperatures below 16 degrees Celsius.
– As the temperature gradually rises, natural beeswax becomes more flexible, reaching a pliable state between 35 to 38 degrees Celsius.
– At 49 degrees Celsius, natural beeswax becomes dough-like but does not stick to fingers.
– Natural beeswax melts when its temperature reaches between 64 and 65 degrees Celsius.
– If exposed to temperatures above 120 degrees Celsius for an extended period of time, natural beeswax will decompose.
– Natural beeswax is known for its ability to dissolve fats and moisturize the skin. It is used in the production of medical products, cosmetics, skincare creams, as well as hair care products.
Amazing Benefits of Natural Beeswax You Might Not Know!
Cardiology Health
The potential benefits of natural beeswax for Cardiac Health are noteworthy. Scientific research suggests that the long-chain fatty acids and alcohols found in natural beeswax produced by bees may potentially reduce high cholesterol levels in the blood.
For instance, comprehensive analyses have shown that the alcohols present in natural beeswax have the ability to reduce (LDL) cholesterol by up to 29%, while simultaneously increasing (HDL) cholesterol by 8-15%.
However, it is important to note that the studies referred to in this analysis used high concentrations of isolated alcohols extracted from natural beeswax. Therefore, it is uncertain whether the small amounts of beeswax present in a honeycomb will achieve the same effects.
Protection Against Infections and Viruses
Natural beeswax has the ability to enhance the body’s natural defenses against certain specific bacteria and fungi.
Microscopic experiments have shown that extracts from natural beeswax can provide a protective effect against a variety of disease-causing bacteria and fungi, such as Staphylococcus Aureus, Candida Albicans, Salmonella Enterica, and E. Coli.
Liver Health
In a 24-week study, individuals with Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease were given a daily dose of a mixture of alcohols and extracts from natural beeswax. It was observed that 48% of the people in the group that received this mixture reported improvements in symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and nausea.
Furthermore, liver functions returned to normal in 28% of the participants.
Is chemical Paraffin Wax Harmful?
• Chemical paraffin wax used in the production of modern bee hives, is a mixture of beeswax and paraffin, as mentioned earlier, with a ratio of 20% natural beeswax and 80% paraffin.
• Paraffin is originally derived from coal and petroleum, and it is either colorless or white. It is also odorless and tasteless.
• Paraffin wax is obtained from petroleum by removing the wax from light lubricating oil in a process called crystallization.
• The melting point of paraffin wax ranges from 46 to 68 degrees Celsius.
• Paraffin wax is highly flammable and considered a thermoplastic; it remains solid at room temperature but adheres to surfaces when exposed to heat. When frozen, it becomes glass-like and prone to breakage.
• The smoke emitted when paraffin wax burns is actually toxic to bees and can harm them directly.
• Paraffin wax is commonly used in various industries because it is cheaper than other alternatives! Some of these industries include:
– Candle making
– Cosmetics industry
– Food packaging
– Plastics
– And various other industries.
Side Effects of Paraffin Wax
Paraffin wax is intended for external use only! Inhaling the smoke emitted from it can cause nausea and irritate the respiratory and visual apparatus, especially for those with chronic sensitivities. Contact with the skin when paraffin wax is in a molten state can lead to severe burns.
Although paraffin is classified as a non-toxic substance, caution should be exercised not to swallow it!
It is essential to mention that during the extraction of honey from the frames in artificial beehives, some beekeepers use a hot knife to remove the wax layer sealed by bees over the hexagonal eyes of the cell. This can lead to the burning of paraffin wax, thereby triggering the mentioned negative effects that may result from its burning. It may also melt and mix with the honey.
Lastly, some studies suggest the possibility that paraffin may contain some carcinogenic substances!
So, what is your opinion? Will you choose honey made from natural beeswax or artificial?
Save the bees… Save the world