How to Harvest Chinese Tallow Wax

Chinese tallow has been used for thousands of years to create candles.

Chinese tallow is found most commonly in the southern regions of the country. The bushes from which it derives produce thick oil, which studies have suggested could become a vital component to the production of biodiesel. However, the seeds of tallow plants have for centuries been harvested for use in manufacturing wax. Tallow candles burn cleanly and were used throughout the country for lighting before the availability of electricity. Harvesting wax from the seeds requires little effort if you follow traditional methods. Does this Spark an idea?

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Large pot
Water
Chinese tallow seeds
Stirring spoon
Skimmer
Large bowl

Instructions

- 1
  
  Fill your pot 3/4 full with water. Place it on the stove.
- 2
  
  Heat the pot on high heat. Bring the water to a rolling boil.
- 3
  
  Place the seeds in the water, dropping them in carefully so as not to have the scalding water splash. Stir them vigorously with your spoon.
- 4
  
  Boil the seeds for several minutes, until a thick waxy film appears on the surface of the water.
- 5
  
  Skim off the film and place it in a separate bowl. This is the tallow wax, which you can use to create candles. Discard the water and seeds, or reserve the latter for extracting additional oil.

Tips & Warnings

Store the wax until you decide to make tallow candles.
Be careful when handling the hot water. Use an oven mitt or hand towel because the hot wax can cause severe burns.