Where Does Beeswax Come From?

Beeswax is a popular component for a variety of craft projects. The most common uses for beeswax include sweetly scented, honey-colored candles and cosmetics. Beeswax can be used to make lip balm, hand salve and even soaps. The origins of this useful natural material are quite interesting and unique.

  1. Honeybees

    • Honeybees have a special gland that secretes this waxy substance.

    Time Frame

    • Honeybees secrete the most wax when they are between 12 and 18 days old.

    Features

    • Beeswax is white when it is first secreted but becomes golden yellow in color as pollen oils are incorporated into it.

    Location

    • Beeswax lines the interior of the hives of honeybees and creates the honeycombs that store honey and pollen.

    Function

    • When harvesting the honey, beekeepers must remove the wax caps from each honeycomb. The beeswax can then be refined and used for a variety of purposes.

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