This
substance produced by bees is composed mainly of the esters of fatty acids and
fatty alcohols, paraffinic hydrocarbons, and free fatty acids (Kuznesof 1).
Basically beeswax is usually used in the production of candles; however, it
also has various uses for human beings. This substance is utilized by humans
through cosmetics. Beeswax is mixed with various oils and manufactured into
salves in order to maximize its benefits for the skin which includes providing
a soothing and protective coating to the skin (MAAREC 3). Apart from its
cosmetic use, beeswax is also added to food supplements, chewing gum and food
additives to serve the purpose of glazing, coating and acting as carriers
(Kuznesof 1). However, like any chemical substance, this may cause several
allergic reactions to some people like skin irritation because of some of its
chemical properties (Munro, DiNovi, Knaap, and Kuznesof 9).
Carnauba
Wax
Carnauba
wax is a refined wax that is taken from a Brazilian tropical palm tree known as
the Copernicia cerifera. This substance is mainly used as a glazing agent,
bulking agent, acidity regulator and carrier (“Carnauba Wax” 1). In other
words, it serves is purpose as coatings of tablets, chewing gums, sauces,
gravies, and in processed juices and fruits (JP Dyechem 1). Carnauba wax also has some use is the
cosmetic industry. This substance has shown toxicity in some experiments done
with rats. However, its toxicity in humans is still being studied currently.
Orange
Seeds
Orange
seeds are said to contain oil which may be utilized in certain products. These
seeds come from a citrus fruit that is usually spherical or oblong in size.
Oils contained in the seeds of the orange are known to contain fatty acids
which may be useful in industries like pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, detergents,
and others (Okoye, Ibeto and Ihedioha 422-423). These seeds contain
antioxidants which are substances that may protect humans from free radicals
which may damage the cells. Usually these seeds are used in Chinese medicines
for hernias and mastitis (Greenwood 1). Chemicals found in these seeds may be
slightly toxic to humans like D-limonine.
Limonoids
Limonoids
are substances found in the seeds, peel and fruit of tangerines and oranges.
These are known citrus compounds. Benefits of this chemical include its
anti-tumor and anti-cancer properties. Some studies show that limonoids inhibit
tumor formation in animals and are more effective against human breast cancer
cells compared to tamoxifen. Moreover, further researches on this substance
found that it my also have antimalarial properties (Greenwood 1). However limonoids may cause the lowering f
serum cholesterol as well as a bitter taste in teas or juice
Hesperidin
Hesperidin
is also a chemical that comes from plants. This is also called bioflavanoid and
it is found in citrus fruits. This chemical is usually used for blood vessel
conditions like hemorrhoids and varicose veins. Another use for hesperidin is
for the treatment of lymphedema, a complication usually occurring in breast
cancer patients. This chemical is not advisable for consumption for pregnant
and lactating women (WebMD 1).
“Beeswax.”
MAAREC Publication 3.9. Mid-Atlantic
Apicultural Research and Extension Consortium. January 2005. Web. 23 December
2012 <https://agdev.anr.udel.edu/maarec/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/Beeswax.pdf>.
“Carnauba
Wax.” Chemical and Technical Assessment
51st JECFA. n.d. Web. 23 December 2012 < http://www.fao.org/ag/agn/jecfa-additives/specs/Monograph1/Additive-109.pdf
>.
Greenwood,
Beth. “What are the Health Benefits of Tangerine Seeds?” Livestrong. 24 October 2011. Web. 23 December 2012 < http://www.livestrong.com/article/549191-what-are-the-health-benefits-of-tangerine-seeds/
>.
“Hesperidin.”
WebMD. n.d. Web. 23 December 2012
< http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-1033-HESPERIDIN.aspx?activeIngredientId=1033&activeIngredientName=HESPERIDIN
>
JP
Dyechem. “Waxes.” JP Dyechem Pvt. Ltd.
n.d. Web. 23 December 2012 <http://www.jpdyechem.com/pdf/Waxes%20(all%20types)_Specification.pdf>.
Kuznesof,
Paul M. “Beeswax.” Chemical and Technical
Assessment 65th JECFA. n.d. Web. 23 December 2012 <http://www.fao.org/fileadmin/templates/agns/pdf/jecfa/cta/65/beeswax.pdf>.
Munro,
I.C., M. DiNovi, A. Knaap, and P.M. Kuznesof. “Beeswax.” Safety Evaluations of Specific Food Additives (Other than Flavouring
Agents). n.d. Web. 23 December 2012 <http://whqlibdoc.who.int/publications/2006/9241660562_part1_a_eng.pdf>.
Okoye,
C.O.B., C.N. Ibeto and J.N. Ihedioha. Preliminary Studies on the
Characterization of Orange Seed and Pawpaw Seed Oils. American Journal of Food Technology 6 (2011): 422-426.
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