Beeswax candles have been used for centuries as people love their natural beauty and clean-burning properties. Beyond their unique color and warm glow, beeswax candles offer a multitude of benefits that appeals to both modern day environmentalists and candle-makers.
In this article, I’ll be sharing some of the advantages of using beeswax candles and why they are a preferred choice for candle enthusiasts worldwide.
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What Are Beeswax Candles?
All types of candles found in the market are made using wax derived from either natural or synthetic resources, or a mixture of both. If you’re wondering how candles are made, check out my other article on a step-by-step guide.
Beeswax candles are similar to soy candles and paraffin candles, in terms of use. However, unlike soy candles that are made of soybean and paraffin candles that are made from petroleum, beeswax candles are candles made from natural beeswax, which is produced by honeybees.
The wax is a renewable resource that is sustainably harvested from beehives, making it an eco-friendly alternative to traditional paraffin candles.
Pros and Cons of Beeswax Candles
Beeswax candles offer several advantages, including being natural and non-toxic, having a longer burn time, and burning cleanly with little to no soot. Unlike other types of candles, beeswax candles can also help purify the air by emitting negative ions and carries a pleasant, subtle sweet honey scent.
However, beeswax candles are more expensive to produce compared to soy candles or paraffin candles due to the extraction process of beeswax – which also makes it harder to find. In terms of candle-making, there are limited scent options to work with when crafting beeswax candles as they emit their own scent.
It can also be challenging for candle users to work with beeswax candles when at home due to their higher melting point.
Here’s two tables to outline the advantages and disadvantages of beeswax candles.
| Advantage | Description |
|---|---|
| Natural and Non-Toxic | Made from pure beeswax, free from harmful chemicals. |
| Long Burn Time | Beeswax candles burn longer than paraffin or soy candles. |
| Clean Burning | Produce little to no soot, reducing indoor air pollution. |
| Air Purification | Emit negative ions that can help clean the air. |
| Pleasant Natural Scent | Have a subtle, natural honey fragrance. |
| Disadvantage | Description |
|---|---|
| Higher Cost | More expensive compared to other types of candles. |
| Limited Availability | Not as widely available as paraffin or soy candles. |
| Limited Scent Options | Natural scent limits the addition of strong fragrances. |
| Harder to Work With | Higher melting point can make them harder to craft. |
5 Benefits of Beeswax Candles
Environmental Benefits
One of the primary benefits of beeswax candles is their environmental friendliness. Beeswax is a natural byproduct of honey production, and harvesting it does not harm bees or the environment.
When burned, beeswax candles also produce minimal soot and emissions which would result in cleaner air and a reduced carbon footprint. This makes them an ideal choice for individuals who suffer from respiratory issues or allergies.
Do Beeswax Candles Clean the Air?
Beeswax candles can contribute to cleaner indoor air by emitting negative ions when burned. These negative ions attract and neutralize positively charged particles such as dust, pollen, and other pollutants, effectively reducing allergens and contaminants in the air.
This process can result in improved air quality, making the environment fresher and potentially benefiting respiratory health.
| Air Cleaning Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Negative Ion Emission | Negative ions attract and neutralize positively charged particles (e.g., dust, pollen, and pollutants). |
| Reduction of Indoor Air Pollutants | Helps to reduce allergens and contaminants in the air. |
| Improved Air Quality | Can lead to a fresher and cleaner indoor environment. |
Read: Beeswax Candles vs. Paraffin Candles
Health Benefits
Beeswax candles are also preferred by many health-conscious consumers due to their clean-burning properties. Unlike paraffin candles, which may release toxins and carcinogens when burned, beeswax candles are non-toxic and hypoallergenic, making them safe for individuals with allergies or sensitivities.
5 Benefits of Beeswax on Skin
Although this might be a separate topic altogether, it’s still valuable to understand the underlying benefits of beeswax when used in our daily lives. Beeswax is typically used for skincare products due to its natural moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties.
When used in balms and lotions, it creates a protective barrier that helps lock in moisture, making it an excellent choice for dry or sensitive skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties also help soothe irritation, while its antibacterial nature promotes healing.
Here’s a table outlining the benefits of beeswax on skin.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Moisturizing | Beeswax forms a protective barrier on the skin, locking in moisture. |
| Anti-inflammatory | It has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe irritated skin. |
| Antibacterial | Beeswax has natural antibacterial properties, promoting healing. |
| Vitamin A | Rich in vitamin A, beeswax supports cell regeneration and overall skin health. |
| Hypoallergenic | Generally safe for sensitive skin, reducing the risk of allergic reactions. |
Spiritual Benefits
Beeswax candles are highly valued in spiritual practices due to their purity and natural origins. When burned, they are believed to release negative ions that purify the air, creating a clean and serene environment conducive to meditation and spiritual activities.
Here’s a table outlining the spiritual benefits of beeswax candles.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Purification | Beeswax candles emit negative ions which are believed to cleanse the environment of negative energy. |
| Healing Energy | The natural flame is said to promote healing and spiritual well-being. |
| Enhanced Meditation | The steady, bright flame of beeswax candles aids in focusing during meditation. |
| Natural Light Quality | The warm, natural light is considered to have a calming and soothing effect. |
| Symbol of Purity | Beeswax is a pure, natural substance often used in spiritual and religious rituals. |
Longevity
Another benefit of beeswax candles is their longevity. Beeswax is a dense and slow-burning wax, allowing beeswax candles to burn significantly longer than traditional paraffin candles.
This means you can enjoy the warm glow and sweet scent of beeswax candles for extended periods without having to replace them as frequently.
Aesthetic Appeal
Unlike other kinds of candles, beeswax candles also offer aesthetic appeal. It has a natural golden hue and a subtle honey-like fragrance that adds warmth and charm to any space.
Whether used as a centerpiece for a romantic dinner or as a decorative accent in a cozy living room, beeswax candles bring a touch of natural beauty to any setting.
How to Make Beeswax Candles
Making beeswax candles at home is a simple and rewarding process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Materials Needed
- Beeswax (pellets or blocks)
- Candle wicks (cotton square braid or flat braid)
- Wick sustainers (metal tabs for securing the wick)
- Candle molds or containers
- Double boiler or microwave-safe container
- Thermometer
- Optional: Essential oils for scent
Steps
- Prepare the Wick: Attach the wick to the sustainer and place it in the center of your mold or container.
- Melt the Beeswax: Use a double boiler to melt the beeswax gently. Maintain a temperature of around 145-175°F.
- Add Scent (Optional): Once set aside from heat, if desired, add a few drops of essential oils to the melted wax.
- Pour the Wax: Carefully pour the melted beeswax into the mold or container, ensuring the wick stays centered.
- Let It Cool: Allow the candle to cool and harden completely, which may take several hours.
- Trim the Wick: Once cooled, trim the wick to about ¼ inch.
Read: How To Make Your Own Rolled Beeswax Candles
Bottom Line
The benefits of beeswax candles are plentiful, ranging from their environmental sustainability, health benefits and spiritual benefits. These are popular reasons as to why beeswax candles are gaining popularity among environmentalists, candle enthusiasts and self-care lovers.
Whether you’re looking to create a warm and inviting atmosphere at home or simply enjoy the soothing glow of candlelight, beeswax candles are an excellent choice for both you and the environment. A little step goes a long way!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Beeswax candles are better for your health compared to paraffin candles. They burn cleaner, producing little to no soot or harmful chemicals. Beeswax candles emit negative ions when burned, which can help reduce indoor air pollutants, making the air cleaner to breathe.
Burning beeswax candles has several benefits. They have a natural, subtle honey scent and a longer burn time compared to other candles. Beeswax candles produce a bright, warm light similar to sunlight, and their negative ion emission can help purify the air and improve overall air quality.
Yes, beeswax candles can help clean the air. When burned, they release negative ions that attract and neutralize positively charged particles like dust, pollen, and other pollutants. This process can help reduce allergens and contaminants in the air, potentially benefiting respiratory health.
The main disadvantages of beeswax candles are their higher cost and limited scent options compared to paraffin and soy candles. Beeswax is more expensive due to its natural sourcing and production process. Additionally, beeswax candles can be harder to find and may not be available in as many fragrances as other types of candles.
