Beeswax is a remarkable natural substance that is produced by honeybees as a vital component of their hive. Let's delve into the fascinating process of how beeswax is made by these incredible insects.

1. Wax Production

Beeswax Glands: Worker bees between 12 to 18 days old have special glands on the underside of their abdomen called wax glands. These glands produce liquid wax in response to the need for comb construction within the hive. It takes a bee 2.7kg of honey to make 45g of wax

Wax Scales: The liquid wax is secreted through the worker bee's glands in the form of thin, transparent, and colorless flakes known as wax scales. One bee can make 8 scales of wax in a 24 hour period

2. Comb Construction

Comb Building: Worker bees collect the wax scales using their legs and mandibles. They then mold the wax scales into hexagonal cells to create the comb structure. These cells serve as storage units for honey, pollen, and developing bee larvae.

Strengthening the Comb: To harden and strengthen the comb, the worker bees mix the wax with small amounts of pollen and propolis (a resinous material collected from plants).

3. Multiple Uses of Beeswax

Storage: Beeswax is used in the hive for storing honey and pollen, as well as providing a safe environment for developing larvae.

Regulation of Temperature: The comb made of beeswax helps in regulating the temperature within the hive, crucial for the survival of the bee colony.

Commercial Uses: Beeswax is harvested by beekeepers for various commercial applications, including candles, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food products.

4. Sustainability

Renewable Resource: Beeswax is a sustainable resource as bees continually produce wax throughout their lives as part of their comb-building activities.

Environmental Impact: The process of beeswax production by bees is environmentally friendly, with bees playing a key role in pollination and ecological balance.

The production of beeswax by bees is a complex and remarkable process that highlights the intricate nature of these industrious insects. Beeswax not only serves essential functions within the hive but also holds significant value for various commercial and sustainable purposes.