Candelilla Wax Flakes | For Making Balms, Salves, etc. | 3oz

Sustainably sourced Candelilla wax Euphorbia cerifera flakes in a reusable metal tin

For making your own herbal balms & salves!

Environmentally Friendly

Candelilla wax is a plant-based wax, and while the candelilla plant is actually endangered, it is protected under Mexican law.

This makes the commercial production of its wax highly regulated, actually resulting in a more sustainable crop than many other plant-based waxes which are harvested without regulation.

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Candelila vs Beeswax

Beeswax is most commonly used in balms and salves, but candelilla wax is my preferred alternative.

Candelilla wax gives salves a similar feel to beeswax, albeit a bit harder and with more slip, so candelilla wax is usually used in a slightly lower ratio than beeswax. 

Beeswax is commonly added at a ratio of 1:3 to 1:8 (that’s 1oz wax for every 3-8oz of oil) depending on desired firmness. 

Candelilla wax is often added at a ratio of 1:4 to 1:7, with 1:5 to 1:7 being softer for salves, and 1:4 or 1:5 being firm for push/twist-up balms. 

The larger the second number gets: the softer the salve is, and vice versa. Tins and jars for removing salves with a finger will usually have a softer consistency (at 1:6 or 1:7) than a balm in a push-up/twist-up container (at 1:3 or 1:4.)

Candelilla Wax Melting Point: 153-174°F (65-68.8°C)

Beeswax melting point: 144-147°F (62-64 °C)

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Plants that make great balms & salves:

• Calendula
• Comfrey
• St. John's Wort aka Klamath weed 
• Plantain leaf
• Goldenrod 
• Ginger
• Yarrow 
• Cayenne pepper 
• Cottonwood
• Peppermint
  
• Lavender
• Rosemary
• Eucalyptus
• Rose 

When stored in a cool, dry, dark place in an airtight container, candelilla wax should have an indefinite shelf life. 

If you need a base oil to infuse your plants into, check out our Cold-Pressed Sunflower Oil and Raw Organic Shea Butter.