USES FOR
Beeswax and Pollen
By Kayla Perla
Pollination and honey are not the only benefits that bees provide. Additionally, bees provide beeswax and pollen, which each carry a wide variety of uses. Beeswax is produced from the glands of honeybees. The wax is produced by young bees and then scraped off their bodies, chewed and mixed with bee saliva as well as other enzymes. After the bee chews and processes the wax, it attaches it to the honeycomb, where pollen is stored and bees reside. The wax also helps safely store honey produced by the bees, and it can help protect the hive from infections and other unwanted contaminants. Beeswax contains anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties. These qualities offer the perfect balance of nourishment to calm the skin, keep it clear and bacteria-free, heal wounds and fight infection.
Bee pollen is considered a superfood and contains many vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, making it incredibly healthy. Bee pollen is a natural mixture of flower pollen, nectar, bee secretions, enzymes, honey and wax, and can be used as a nutritional supplement. Beeswax wraps are touted as easy, eco-friendly alternatives to plastic wraps because they are reusable, unlike plastic wrap, and are created from natural ingredients that aren’t harmful to the environment. Because beeswax wraps are tacky, allowing them to easily mold to a container opening or around food, they work just as well as plastic wrap, and they last longer—up to a year. DIY Beeswax Wraps Combine 1/4 cup beeswax pastilles, 2 tablespoons of pine resin and 1 tablespoon of organic jojoba oil in a double-boiler on the stovetop. Heat until melted and fully combined. Use a brush to apply an even coat of the mixture across the surface of the fabric (precut to desired size). Hang immediately while still wet. To clean and refresh your homemade wraps, fill your sink with lukewarm water and add a mild dish washing liquid. Put the wraps in the water and don’t be afraid to give them a little scrub. Rinse off and hang them to dry.
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Studies have linked bee pollen and its compounds to health benefits such as decreased inflammation, as well as improved immunity, menopausal symptoms and wound healing. Bee pollen is good for a wide variety of circumstances, including but not limited to: acne, allergies (especially when the pollen comes from a local source), arthritis, asthma, eczema, high cholesterol and osteoporosis. In addition, bee pollen is said to enhance energy, sharpen memory, slow the aging process, promote weight loss and improve athletic performance.
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So next time you see a bee or a beekeeper, shout thank you for all that they provide and do for the environment. ■ *Disclaimer, these statements have not been approved by the FDA. These statements are based upon author research.
