Beeswax – properties, applications and chemical composition

Beeswax is one of the most valuable products of bees, which has many useful applications. Beeswax consists of many components that determine its physicochemical properties and applications. In this article, we will examine the properties and applications of beeswax, as well as its chemical composition.

Properties of beeswax

Beeswax has many useful properties that make it one of the most valuable products of bees. Here are some of them:

Impermeability: Beeswax is insoluble in water, which makes it suitable for use as a sealing material in beehives.
Resistance to high temperatures: Beeswax has high temperature resistance (its melting point is 61-65°C, according to BDS 13143-80), which makes it suitable for use in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries.
Antibacterial properties: It contains propolis, which has strong antibacterial properties. This makes it suitable for use as a natural preservative in cosmetic and pharmaceutical products.
Boosts the immune system: Beeswax and propolis contain flavonoids that boost the immune system and help the body fight disease.
Also read: Beeswax compresses for muscle and joint pain

Beeswax Applications

Beeswax has numerous applications in various industries. Some of the main ones are:

Cosmetics: Beeswax is used as a natural thickening agent in creams, face masks, lip balms, and other cosmetic products. It gives the products a smooth texture and makes them more resistant to heat and light.
Pharmaceuticals: Beeswax is used to make creams, medicines, and other pharmaceutical products. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that make it useful for treating wounds, burns, eczema, and other skin problems.
Food industry: In addition to serving as a sealing material in beehives, beeswax is also used to package food products such as cheese, meat, and fruit.
Candles: Beeswax has been used to make candles for centuries. It burns slower and more completely than all other types of wax, making it an ideal material for this purpose. Beeswax candles have an antibacterial effect on the environment in which they burn.

Chemical composition of beeswax

Wax is a complex mixture of chemical compounds. Its main components are esters of higher fatty acids (myrostin, palmitate and palmitole) and higher fatty alcohols (triacontanol and cholesterol, etc.), which reach 70-75%. Esters ensure the safety of wax, protecting it from chemical reactions. Wax also includes: hydrocarbons (chemically inert alkanes range from 10 to 14%); free fatty acids and glycerin – from 13 to 14%; free fatty alcohols – 1-1.25%. Wax also contains water (0.1 – 2.5%), carotenoids (12.8 mg per 100 g), vitamins (the content of vitamin A is especially high – 4 g per 100 g of product), minerals, various impurities (aromatic substances, propolis, larval remains, pollen, etc.).

The total number of elements in wax reaches 300. The ratio of elements depends on the season, geoclimatic features and bee breed.

Read also about: Propolis – beneficial properties and applications

Use of beeswax in cosmetics

Due to its natural properties, beeswax is often used in cosmetic products. It has a consistent texture and gives creams and balms smoothness and softness. In addition, beeswax is waterproof, which makes it ideal for protecting the skin from the harmful effects of the environment.

Beeswax is rich in vitamin A, which is known for its regenerating properties, as well as beta-carotene, magnesium and calcium. This means that beeswax can help restore the skin after exposure to the sun, pollution or other stressful conditions.

Beeswax is ideal for people with sensitive skin, as it is a completely natural product and does not contain harmful chemicals. Additionally, it has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help fight acne and other skin problems.

Uses of Beeswax in Pharmaceuticals

Beeswax has long been used in the pharmaceutical industry due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used to treat various skin problems, such as wounds, burns, and eczema. It is also used to make creams and medicines for various diseases, such as arthritis and rheumatism. Beeswax is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. It can help improve the immune system, reduce cholesterol, and maintain bone health.