Beeswax

Beeswax is a tough wax formed from a mixture of several compounds secreted by honeybees in the form of thin scales from glands on the ventral surface of the abdomen and used in building the combs in which the young are raised and honey and pollen are stored. Its color varies from yellowish-white to brownish depending on purity. It has a high melting point, near 65°C.

Beeswax is used commercially to make fine candles, in polishing materials, as a component of modelling waxes, and in a variety of other products. Beeswax candles are preferred in most Eastern Orthodox churches because they burn cleanly, with little or no wax dripping down the sides and little visible smoke.

See also: esters.

de:Bienenwachs nl:bijenwas eo:Abelvakso