BEESWAX ~ EDNA’S NATURAL PRESERVATIVE

We are asked almost daily about preservatives in the Edna creams.  We’re not sure if that’s because customers are more savvy about ingredients than they used to be, or if it’s because they have half-used jars in the back of the cupboard and are worried about safety, but we’re always happy to tell you about any of our ingredients.

The preservative in nearly every cream Edna produces is good, old fashioned, natural Beeswax.

Beeswax is one of the oldest documented preservatives.  Did you know that when ancient tombs have been opened in Egypt they often find jars of honey sealed with beeswax; and when opened the honey is still edible?  Beeswax was also mixed with pigments to paint murals and portraits.   Now 2,000 years later, the colors are still vibrant and in wonderful condition (and the paintings naturally repel dust!)  There are literally hundreds of ancient prescriptions for beeswax that man has now forgotten – apparently beeswax was used to cure everything from blood diseases to obesity.  What makes Beeswax so healing?

Little did they know in ancient times, Beeswax is both antiseptic and anti-fungal!   In our creams beeswax is nearly always the first ingredient.  Beeswax is a natural organic substance that is non-toxic.   Beeswax is also impermeable so when it’s melted and mixed into a cream it sets up a barrier in and around the other ingredients; sealing in freshness.  We have opened jars more than 30 years old and the creams are still usable and have no bacteria because of the beeswax.

Beeswax cannot be absorbed though the skin so it sets up a loose protective barrier on top of the skin.  This locks in moisture and helps to keep the skin hydrated.  Beeswax is also a humectant – meaning it actually attracts more water into the skin when you are exposed to humid conditions – for instance doing the dishes, walking past a running sprinkler or are near a lake or ocean.  Beeswax easily is removed from the skin with hot water and contrary to what others may tell you, it does not clog pores — it actually repels dirt and pollution keeping your pores cleaner!!!

God save the Honey Bee!