Natural Waxes

Natural waxes are those from plants, insects and animals. Waxes of various qualities are found in leaves, stems, berries, and grasses that grow wild in many countries. Wax is produced by plants in tropical and arid locations where wax is provided by nature to reduce moisture loss. Beeswax varies in color from yellow through black, and it is believed that the pollen carried by the bee affects the coloration. Spermaceti (Whale oil) and lanolin, from sheep's wool are the main animal waxes. Most economically, natural waxes are made by hydrogenating soy and palm oil.