Beeswax ointment

This recipe has been sent by Kathy Gau who is promoting beekeeping in Swaziland, with support from the Swaziland Ministry of Agriculture and the Near East Foundation. Kathy has found that the use of beeswax in making this ointment has been of great interest to the general population in Swaziland. The ointment resembles the petroleum jelly that is used as lip balm and as a soothing cream.

Supplies needed

750 ml cooking oil

150 g beeswax. This is equal to a tin cup half full of melted beeswax

3 capfuls glycerine

Perfume (not essential, but can be added if desired)

Equipment needed

Pot for melting

Heating unit, either a hot plate or fire

Stick for stirring

Containers for the ointment. Save old glass and plastic jars for this purpose.

Method

1. Heat the oil for five minutes.

2. Add the beeswax. The beeswax can be either already melted, or still in solid form.

3 Add the three capfuls of glycerine.

4. Continue to heat the mixture for five minutes. Heat, but do not allow the mixture to boil.

5. Add perfume if desired.

6. Pour the mixture into the containers.

7. Allow the mixture to cool. As the mixture cools, it resembles petroleum jelly. This recipe will make approximately 810 g.

8. Store in a cool place.

Candles can be used instead of beeswax. Use two candles, placing the candles into the hot oil. After the candles have melted, remove the strings from the mixture.

Total cost

Petroleum jelly in the shops:

810 g would cost US$6.32

Ointment made from home-produced beeswax: US$2.94

If made from bought beeswax: US$4.44

If made from candles: US$3.50.