Beeswax Candle Benefits
If the world of candlelight speaks to you, the benefits of beeswax candles makes them a rather compelling choice. Does it really matter what type of candle you burn? Perhaps so, if you can concerned about air quality. As we explore what makes these natural candles so popular -you just might rethink your shopping tendencies.
One of the perks of being a beekeeper is having extra wax on hand. You can learn how to make beeswax candles in a variety of forms – something suitable for everyone.
Are Beeswax Candles are Better?
If you have a love affair with the open flame, these natural candles have a lot to offer. They are one of the most sought after types of candles worldwide and the most popular way to use beeswax. Why do they have such a large fan base?
Advantages of Beeswax Candles
- long burn time
- pull toxins from the air
- soot free
- beautiful light
To understand the true benefits of beeswax candles – you must compare them to the most common alternative – paraffin.
Paraffin Candles
Paraffin is probably the king of cheap candles. There is a reason those small tealights are so cheap at the discount stores. They are made with less expensive ingredients. There are times this may not matter.
If you are burning them at an outside even – air quality is not a big issue. However, for inside use – you should consider how clean burning (or not) the candles you are using will be.
Paraffin Properties
- cheap and easily available
- burns well in most situations
- contain artificial dyes and other toxic substances
- use synthetic wicks
- shorter burn time
- produce soot
Paraffin is easily available and thus – cheap. It is actually an oil-based petroleum by-product. Many paraffin candles contain artificial dyes, synthetic fragrances and other toxic chemicals known to be carcinogens.
Some of these chemicals are added to this toxic crude oil sludge to make it look and smell attractive. Who would want an ugly grey stinking candle?
What happens when these products are burned? Some of the toxic chemicals are released into the air. (Now I know why that apple pie candle I used to have made my throat itch).
Also, many cheap candles have synthetic wicks or those that are zinc-cored. Who knows what kinds of chemicals may be released when that wick burns ?
You will pay less for paraffin at first but may not experience savings in the end. They have shorter burn times so they won’t last as long. Also, they are drippy and often produce a lot of soot.
Beeswax Candle Benefits
Pure beeswax candles are made from natural wax that is made by honey bees. They have several desirable properties:
- all natural materials
- produces light spectrum similar to natural sunlight
- no added colors or fragrances necessary
- dripless in a draft free area
- clean burning – no soot
- may clean air and/or improve mood
- made from bee wax – renewable resource
Beeswax candles produce a bright, white light (in the same spectrum as sunlight). They are also drip-less and clean burning.
A natural clean light honey fragrance will be present. They do not need added fragrance that may damage your lungs or irritate sensitive sinuses.
However, if you prefer to add scent to your beeswax candles you can do so with essential oils and other clean products.
Let’s see, paraffin candles are petroleum by-products containing possible toxins and pure beeswax candles are all natural. Hmmmm, seems to be several benefits of beeswax candles over paraffin.
Candle Bloom-You Must Be Kidding Right?
There is one property of these natural wax candles that some folks find surprising. They will develop a white coating known as “bloom”. This powdery patina coating is a natural occurrence.
The “bloom” is more pronounced when they are stored in an area with great changes in temperature. All 100% pure beeswax candles will bloom over time. The white bloom is a highly desirable effect but can be easily polished away with a soft cloth if you wish.
Health Benefits
We can easily see that cleaner burning is one of the major health benefits of beeswax candles. By not producing toxic smoke or soot, you should be breathing cleaner air.
They are also known for being hypo-allergenic. People with asthma or allergies report fewer breathing problems when using beeswax candles (vs paraffin).
Do Beeswax Candles Clean the Air?
Researchers disagree on the air cleaning ability of burning beeswax. But, some feel that they are a natural ionizer – emitting negative ions.
The stuff floating in the air that we don’t want to breath in (dust, dander etc.) – carries a positive charge. So, the negative ions produced by your beeswax candles helps to neutralize pollutants.
If using they do reduce indoor air pollution, perhaps that is why asthma and allergy sufferers breathe easier. At the very least, we can all agree that by not contributing to air pollution they are a good choice.
How to Buy Pure Beeswax Candles
When shopping for pure beeswax candles, proceed with caution. If you find very inexpensive ones, I would be extra cautious. Chances are – they are not pure or are imported from China.
Also, even in the United States, current labeling laws only require a candle to be 51% beeswax to carry the label.
Seriously? That’s nuts. Read labels carefully if you want pure candles. You may also find them at local craft fairs. Ask if the seller makes them him/herself.
Suitable Beeswax Candle Accessories
Beeswax candles burn hotter than some other types. If you enjoy votives, I prefer to use a metal candle holder due to the heat produced by burning beeswax candles.
If using glass holders, be sure the glass is thick and approved for use with heat. Those light-weight inexpensive glass holders may break when exposed to burning wax. This causes a fire hazard and danger of cuts or burns.
Mixing Beeswax & Coconut Oil
Some folks want a “designer candle” that still allows them to enjoy some of the qualities of beeswax but has other properties too.
If you prefer to mix beeswax with another oil, such as, coconut oil or even soy, you can. Some candle makers like to use a blend when making candles in glass jars. My beeswax candle recipe using coconut oil is one example.
Beeswax Candle Projects
Candle making is a lot of fun and a great family project. The materials are fairly easy to find. You basically need wax and a wick.
You may choose to buy raw wax from a local beekeeper but keep in mind that you will need to clean the wax properly or your candle will not burn well.
Of course, you may choose to get fancy and make some of these decorative candles with dried flowers. They are a nice touch and very elegant.
With a little preparation and knowledge, you can create some great items for your home or gift giving. Seashell tealight candles are really cute and they make great wedding favors too!
For a natural shaped candle, you can create egg shaped beeswax candles using empty egg shells.
And of course, there are numerous types of wax candle molds available in every shape imaginable. For a unique gift idea, collect some old cups from the local thrift store and make elegant tea cup candles for someone special.
And for elegant ambient lighting consider making some beeswax luminaires too!
FAQs
No scientific studies have proven without a doubt that beeswax candles improve your mood. But, many people swear that they do! They are used for meditation and relaxation therapy.
Only honey bees make beeswax and there is a limited supply available. For every 1-2 pounds of wax produced, the bees lose production of around 6 pounds of honey.
Also, there is a great demand for light-colored beeswax in the cosmetic and beauty industry. There just does not seem to be enough to go around and this develops a scarcity.
Pure beeswax candles actually have a very light scent in raw form. However, fragrances can be added to the candle.
Beeswax is a natural byproduct of beekeeping, and its extraction does not harm the bees or the hive. Choosing beeswax candles supports sustainable beekeeping practices and avoids the environmental impact associated with candles made from non-renewable resources like paraffin.
Yes, beeswax candles burn clean and release negative ions that help remove bad odors.
Final Thoughts
Beeswax candles have a lot to offer for those who appreciate quality. Longer burn time, clean burning and all natural materials means you can enjoy all the benefits of beeswax candles burning brightly in your home.