beeswax buzz

after my posting about queen b beeswax candles, i received a note from the owner of that company, cate burton, explaining why beeswax makes the healthiest candle. so, i did a little research and here are a few fascinating tidbits i discovered about candles.

• aromatherapy candles actually create poisonous byproducts when the oil is burned.
  
• paraffin candles are made of petroleum industry waste, then bleached and other chemicals added.
  
• according to the epa, paraffin candles are known to release carcinogens.
• the american lung association warns against burning scented or slow-burning candles with additives.
  
• vegetable and soy candles are a good alternative to paraffin or aromatherapy candles, but toxins are created when oils are converted into wax to make the candle.
• another surprising issue with vegetable and soy candles, is that in order to create supply for them, large areas of virgin rainforests are being illegally cleared.
  
• beeswax looks like the best choice for its non-toxic, non-polluting, non-allergenic, and all natural properties.
  
• beeswax is also made from a renewable source and gives off a sweet honey aroma.
• beeswax produces negative ions which purifies the air.
• beeswax candles burn efficiently, about 10 times longer than paraffin.
  
• beware though when a candle is labeled beeswax since by law it only needs to have at least 10% beeswax in order to be labeled as beeswax.
  
• finally, be sure the wick is cotton since many candle wicks contain lead.

thanks cate for helping us improve the indoor air quality and the natural world!