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Your Health, Your Home: Choose Wisely

“Every time you spend money, you're casting a vote for the kind of world you want.”
― Anna Lappe

​Beyond the Glow: Why Choose Beeswax 

Did you know that most store-bought candles are made from paraffin wax? This wax is a byproduct of oil refining, which means it comes from a non-renewable resource and has some downsides when burned. Here's a breakdown:

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Paraffin Wax: What You Need to Know

  • Petroleum-based: Paraffin wax is essentially leftover oil after gasoline and other fuels are extracted.

  • Chemical Treatment: Paraffin needs bleaching and deodorizing before it becomes candle wax.

  • Potential Health Concerns: When burned, paraffin candles may release toxins linked to asthma and lung cancer. Additionally, artificial scents and dyes can further irritate the respiratory system.

  • Environmental Impact: Crude oil extraction can be damaging to ecosystems and contributes to climate change.​

 

Beeswax: Nature's Wonder Wax

Beeswax offers a much healthier and more sustainable alternative:

  • Clean Burn: Beeswax burns cleanly, producing minimal soot and releasing negative ions, which can actually help purify the air!

  • Natural Benefits: Beeswax has a subtle honey scent and comes in beautiful natural shades.

  • Supports Beekeeping: Choosing beeswax supports healthy bee populations and sustainable beekeeping practices.​

 

Making an Informed Choice:

By opting for beeswax candles, you're not just creating a lovely ambiance, you're making a choice for your health and the environment.​

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​Additional Tip:

While most soy wax candles are considered better than paraffin, they can still have downsides. Look for candles made from 100% natural beeswax for the purest and healthiest burn.

The Hidden Dangers of Paraffin Candles

Most of the candles you find in stores are made from paraffin wax, a byproduct of the oil refining process. Think of it as the leftover gunk after gasoline, diesel, and other fuels are extracted from crude oil. To turn this into a candle, it needs to be treated with chemicals to remove its unpleasant smell and color.

Unfortunately, when you burn a paraffin candle, it releases harmful toxins like toluene and benzene. These chemicals can irritate your lungs and may even contribute to serious health issues like asthma and lung cancer. Adding artificial scents and dyes to these candles only makes the problem worse. This isn't ideal for anyone, especially newborns with developing lungs or those with respiratory issues.

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Why Beeswax is Better

Beeswax candles, on the other hand, are a much healthier and eco-friendly choice. They burn clean, releasing negative ions that can help purify the air. Plus, by choosing beeswax candles, you're supporting sustainable beekeeping practices.

So, the next time you light a candle, consider choosing one made from natural beeswax. It's a small step towards a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle.

Choosing the Right Candle: Soy vs. Beeswax

In the world of candles, soy and beeswax are often presented as healthy alternatives to paraffin wax. But did you know there's a clearer winner when it comes to both your health and the environment? Let's explore!

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Soy Wax: A Look Behind the Label

While some soy wax is produced sustainably, the traditional method involves clearing rainforests and using large amounts of pesticides. Most soy is genetically modified and heavily sprayed, potentially harming both people and the environment.

Even "100% soy" candles may contain traces of paraffin wax, meaning they still release some of the same toxins found in traditional candles. Additionally, many soy candles use harmful dyes and fragrances similar to those found in paraffin wax. Even essential oils, while natural, can release toxins when burned due to changes in their molecular structure.

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Beeswax: Nature's Marvellous Candle

Beeswax candles are a breath of fresh air (literally!). They promote beekeeping, a vital part of healthy ecosystems. Additionally, beeswax candles offer some amazing benefits:

  • Air Purification: Beeswax candles generate negative ions, which neutralize pollutants like dust, mold spores, and odors. This can help reduce allergy and asthma symptoms.

  • Mental Clarity: Negative ions also increase oxygen flow to the brain, potentially boosting mental alertness.

  • Clean Burn: Beeswax burns clean, leaving minimal soot and keeping your air fresh.

  • Naturally Beautiful: Beeswax is naturally fragrant and comes in beautiful shades of white and light brown. It's free of artificial colors and perfumes.

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​The Bottom Line:

When taking into account the environment, soy candles can contribute to deforestation and GMO production. On the other hand, beeswax supports healthy ecosystems by encouraging beekeeping.

From a health perspective, soy candles may still contain toxins from paraffin and some fragrances. Beeswax candles, on the other hand, are naturally free of these harmful substances.

So, the next time you choose a candle, consider the power of nature's wonder: beeswax!

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