Beeswax candles have been around for centuries and are free from the chemicals and toxins found in most commercial candles. Not only are beeswax candles eco-friendly, but they also have numerous benefits when burned. The non-toxic properties of beeswax make it a popular choice for candle making. Let’s dive in and explore these benefits and learn how to make a beeswax candle.
Benefits of Burning Beeswax Candles
Beeswax candles are naturally scented with the smell of sweet honeycomb that is soothing and not overpowering. This will help to create a calming and relaxing environment.
Unlike paraffin wax which releases toxic chemicals when burned, beeswax candles emit negative ions, which purify the air by neutralizing toxins and allergens. This makes it great for people who suffer from allergies or asthma. Who knew you could purify the air while burning candles?!
Beeswax has a higher melting point than other waxes, so it burns slower and longer. These candles also burn cleaner and produce less soot. This creates a peaceful ambiance that allows you to enjoy the candle for longer and have peace of mind about what you are putting into your home.
Adding Coconut Oil and Essential Oils
Adding coconut oil can help your beeswax candle have a smoother, creamier texture. The coconut oil can also help keep your candle from tunneling. Coconut oil has its own unique set of benefits that include having anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties. Try adding 1/4 cup to your 8-ounce candle.
If you want your candle to have a scent other than the sweet honeycomb smell, essential oils can be added. If you are adding essential oils to your candle, coconut oil can help with the hot throw (how much scent you smell when the candle is burning). Beeswax does not hold scent well and since essential oils are so expensive, adding the coconut oil can help you get more scent at less cost. I add about 3 Tbsp of essential oils per 8-ounce candle.
Making Beeswax Candles at home
Making beeswax candles at home is a fun and easy process. Here is a simple recipe for a beeswax candle using a glass jar:
What you will need to make an 8 oz candle:
7.5 oz of beeswax pellets
4 Tbsp coconut oil (optional)
3 Tbsp of essential oils (optional)
Wick
8-ounce Jar for your candle
Pencil or chopstick
Instructions:
- Place jar in the oven on lowest setting to let it warm up some before pouring wax.
- Melt the beeswax pellets with a double boiler.
- Add in coconut oil until melted and mix for 2 minutes.
- Dip the wick in the melted wax.
- Secure the wick to the bottom center of the jar with a hot glue gun.
- use a pencil or chopstick to hold the wick centered.
- Let wax cool to 155-160 degrees.
- If using essential oils, pour them in at this point and stir for 2 minutes.
- Carefully pour the melted wax mixture into the glass jar, leaving about a 1/2 inch of space at the top.
- Allow the wax to cool and harden for 24 hours.
- Trim the wick to about 1/4 inch.
Conclusion
Burning non-toxic beeswax candles has many benefits including purifying the air, a slow and long-lasting burn, and a bright, clean flame. Adding coconut oil to beeswax candles brings a smoother texture and fragrance, and essential oils can provide an added layer of natural fragrance. With this simple recipe, anyone can make their own beeswax candles at home and enjoy the many benefits they have to offer.
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