It’s quite likely you’ve heard the “save the bees” parole in recent years in a movie you’ve seen or an article you’ve read. However, we’re all aware that these fuzzy yellow-black creatures are very important for our planet. Not only do they imbue life into flowers, but they also produce honey, which is beneficial for our health. But did you know that these busy little fellows produce another sticky substance that can be used for creating various products?
So, when beekeepers harvest honey, a leftover product from the extraction process is bee wax. Also known as beeswax, it is the magical material the honeybee and other bees create in order to make honeycomb. The mixing of pollen oils into honeycomb wax turns the white wax into a yellow or brown colour. Then it’s melted into blocks that can be used for many different purposes.
Beeswax is the miracle of the beehive. It is a natural substance that has a long shelf life, burns well and has protective qualities. Keep in mind that bees are not harmed in the production of beeswax products. Beeswax can be useful in a variety of applications, from health and beauty products to candles and home items. Here are some of the most popular beeswax products Australia wide and the benefits they provide.
Beeswax Candles
Beeswax is a valuable ingredient in candles and has been used for ages to brighten up homes. Ancient Egyptians, Romans, Greeks and Chinese relied on beeswax candles to light their living spaces. That’s because beeswax candles have the brightest and purest light, closest to natural sunlight and when used as a light source they can help minimise eye strain and reduce headaches.
Today, beeswax candles offer some unique benefits compared to paraffin or soy candles. If you’re considering different types of candles, keep in mind that beeswax candles provide health benefits that are essential for your lifestyle and health needs.
Beeswax candles are the healthiest ones to burn as they contain negative ions. When positive and negative ions mix, they become attracted to one another. As a result, the particles are too heavy to float and eventually they drop to the ground. This is a simple, but safe and effective way to extract dust, pollen and dander from the air and create a cleaner home environment.
Because beeswax candles are all-natural, they don’t produce toxic by-products and heavy soot when burned. The simple act of burning a candle is a relaxing experience and can help reduce stress in your everyday life. The mildly sweet and natural scent of beeswax candles is ultimately relaxing and calming. They’re low maintenance as they can burn for hours without sooting or dripping. Over time, a beeswax candle may produce a little drip, which will develop a white film. This gives the candle a unique effect, however, you should trim the wick and for best results, make sure to keep your candle out of the draft.
There are many ways to burn beeswax candles to take advantage of their natural health benefits. Mostly, beeswax candles are unscented and won’t do any harm if there are people with allergies around your candles. People who suffer from breathing difficulties or allergies may consider burning pure beeswax candles 30 to 60 minutes before going to bed to help clear the air in the bedroom and ensure restful sleep. Also, they can be used in the kitchen to neutralise any strong, unpleasant odour.
Beeswax Wraps
We all know plastic is terrible for the planet and we should do our best to reduce the use of it. Very often we use plastic to keep food fresh and the good news is that there is a more sustainable alternative to the plastic wraps – beeswax wraps. They’re washable, reusable and compostable products made with beeswax, a type of fabric, most commonly cotton or hemp, and other natural ingredients.
Beeswax wraps have antibacterial and antifungal properties, they’re watertight and lock in moisture, but don’t let it build up. A beeswax wrap will let your food breathe naturally and act as a barrier to keep your food fresh. You can use a beeswax wrap instead of plastic wrap and put it around cheese, bread, fruits, veggies, in your lunch box or seal containers with food, like a bowl of salad for instance.
Simply use your hands to put the beeswax wrap around your food and let their warmth make the wrap grip tightly to the food or the container. Taking care of your beeswax wraps is also easy as all you need to do is wash them with cold water to prevent the beeswax from melting and mild soap. Then let them dry and once dried, you can use them again. Since beeswax wraps can’t be washed with hot water, they’re not recommended to be used for meat and fish.
The main reason why many people love beeswax wraps is that they’re natural, reduce waste and are a great way to inspire others to care about sustainability and eco-friendliness that is so much needed these days.
Apart from beeswax candles and wraps, there are many other beeswax products you can choose for your own benefit or as a gift for a special someone. From candle holders and coasters to soaps, DIY kits, hampers and care packs that can be a great gift for various occasions.
Support Local Producers
When you’re buying beeswax products Australia made, you’re supporting your local beeswax shop and local beekeepers. Beekeepers all over the world protect bees and help people keep producing fruit and veggies.