What is Beeswax Made From? The Science Behind Natural Beeswax

Introduction: Understanding the Composition of Beeswax

Beeswax is one of nature’s most remarkable substances, serving as the foundation of a beehive’s structure. But what exactly is beeswax made from? This natural wax, secreted by honeybees, plays a vital role in the survival of a colony and has countless applications for humans. In this guide, we will explore the science behind beeswax, its chemical composition, and its fascinating production process.

How Do Bees Make Beeswax?

Beeswax is produced by worker bees in the colony, specifically young bees between 12 to 18 days old. These bees have wax glands located on the underside of their abdomens, which secrete small, colourless wax flakes. As the wax is secreted, worker bees manipulate and mold it to build hexagonal honeycomb cells.

The Chemical Composition of Beeswax

Beeswax is primarily composed of:

• Fatty acids – Contribute to its soft and pliable texture.
• Hydrocarbons – Provide structure and stability.
• Esters – Help maintain its smooth and water-resistant properties.
• Alcohols – Aid in flexibility and durability.
• Vitamin A – Gives beeswax its characteristic color and benefits skin applications.

On a molecular level, beeswax is about 70-75% esters, 10-15% hydrocarbons, and 12-16% free fatty acids, making it one of the most stable and long-lasting natural waxes.

Why is Beeswax Yellow or White?

Beeswax can range in color from pale white to deep golden yellow, depending on its purity and exposure to pollen, propolis, and other hive elements.

• Freshly secreted wax is nearly white and odourless.
• Golden yellow beeswax contains traces of honey and pollen.
• Darker beeswax has been reused within the hive and contains propolis and other impurities.
• White beeswax is often filtered or bleached for cosmetic and food-grade applications.

The Role of Beeswax in the Beehive

Beeswax is essential to a colony’s survival. It serves as the foundation for:

• Honeycomb storage – Beeswax cells hold honey, pollen, and developing bee larvae.
• Hive insulation – Helps regulate temperature inside the hive.
• Structural integrity – Provides a durable framework for the colony.

Worker bees continuously maintain the hive by repairing and repurposing beeswax, ensuring the hive remains functional and secure.

What is Beeswax Used For?

Due to its durability and natural composition, beeswax is widely used in:

• Skincare products (lotions, balms, salves)
• Candles (clean-burning and air-purifying)
• Food preservation (beeswax wraps and cheese coatings)
• Wood and leather polish (natural conditioner for furniture and accessories)
• Pharmaceutical applications (ointment bases and medicinal salves)

Conclusion: The Unique Science of Beeswax

Beeswax is an extraordinary natural substance made from secretions of worker bees, rich in fatty acids, esters, and hydrocarbons. It plays an essential role in beehive construction and offers a wide range of benefits for human use. Understanding the science behind beeswax helps us appreciate its versatility and importance in both nature and everyday applications.

Where to Find Pure Beeswax

For those looking to buy high-quality, natural beeswax, sourcing from ethical beekeepers ensures the best purity and sustainability. Look for raw, unprocessed beeswax for maximum benefits in skincare, candle making, and more.

Why Our Beeswax is Better

Looking for high-quality, 100% pure Canadian beeswax candles? All of our beeswax products are hand-poured and sold in wholesale and small quantities. We have perfect our wax filtering process over the past decade and now offer a consistent high-quality product.

Shop now and experience the difference.

About Prairie Sun Beeswax

Prairie Sun Beeswax is a family-owned business in the Canadian prairies, producing pure beeswax and honey for over three generations. We render Manitoba and Ontario beeswax and all of our beeswax products sold are 100% Canadian. What started as a small beekeeping operation in 1962 has grown into a thriving farm with 1,500 hives. Since launching our commercial beeswax rendering business in 2014, we’ve perfected our filtering process to deliver the highest quality wax to our customers. In addition, our commercial beeswax rendering process is powered by a large solar array that we installed behind the honey house in 2017.