There are different kinds of wax candles in the market. Among the most popular and unique ones are coconut wax candles. In this article, we will talk about coconut wax candles and how to make them.
What is coconut wax?
It is a by-product of coconut oil and other extracted oils like palm kernel oil and copra oil. Coconut wax candles are clean, renewable, and biodegradable. They also emit less soot than regular paraffin wax candles that contain petroleum.
Origin of Coconut Wax
Coconut wax was first discovered in the Philippines as early as 1825 where it was used for traditional Filipino “kutsero” (clothes) and “santol” (fans). Its usage became widespread during World War II when Japan occupied Manila and its surrounding provinces – making Philippine coconut plantations one of their key war resources to fuel their military operations, making the price of coconut increase 20 times higher than normal.
The demand for coconut wax skyrocketed during the war period until it became a major industry for Philippine coconut plantations. Until now, there are concerns regarding the organic nature of candle wax since its production remains heavily dependent on copra which is produced from oil palm plantations and other crops that extract oils with chemicals like hexane.
What Are Coconut Wax Candles?
Coconut wax candles can be made at home by following these steps:
Step 1: Prepare the ingredients
Mix 30% castor oil (by volume) with 70% coconut wax. If you already do not have castor oil in your house, you may go directly to Step 2 and prepare melted coconut oil (1 cup or 250ml). You may also opt to add 10-15 drops of scented oil to give your candle a pleasing smell.
Step 2: Melt the coconut wax
You may do this by putting it inside a box that contains water, then putting it over direct heat or an electric stove to melt the wax. Or you can opt to microwave at 1-minute intervals until melted. Do not forget to check on the water every once in a while since its level should still be high enough for the mixture not to burn.
Step 3: Mix the melted coconut oil with castor oil
Put scented oils if desired, and pour them into the mold where your candles will be made of. Wait for about 10 minutes before pouring another layer if you want multi-colored candles, or pour all contents into the mold if you are making a single-colored candle.
Step 4: Set the mixture inside the freezer
Freeze for about 10 minutes, this will harden it and make sure that your candles will last long. Do not forget to insert wicks before putting the candle into the freezer as the wax solidifies quickly.
Step 5: Take out your coconut wax candles from mold and you’re all set!
You can now give them away as presents or use them yourself. However, we recommend you burn coconut wax candles at least twice a week so they do not collect dust and become contaminated with other kinds of dirt which might lead to health problems like asthma and allergies later on if left unattended and uncleaned.
Coconut Wax vs Paraffin Wax
People who invest in coconut wax candles are doing so because they want to invest in their health. Paraffin wax emits carcinogens that can cause serious problems if inhaled by humans for a long period of time. It also releases black soot or carbon dioxide when burned which affects the planet’s ozone layer and contributes to global warming. Coconut wax does not contain any of these elements, making it healthier and better for the environment.
Benefits of Coconut Wax Candles
Coconut wax candles offer so many benefits. They are affordable, made of renewable resources, and emit cleaner or less soot when burned. They are safer for the environment compared to paraffin wax candles since they release fewer contaminants.
Coconut wax candles also spread better scents compared to some other types of candles because their ingredients blend well together. They also come in many colors and shapes, making them a staple for home decorations.
You can make coconut wax candles at home with very little effort involved, or you can purchase them from stores that sell organic products. Either way, they are a great investment because of the many benefits they offer as opposed to paraffin candles.
Conclusion
There you have it! There are many benefits to coconut wax candles which makes them a great alternative to paraffin wax candles. As mentioned earlier, they can last for longer periods of time compared to other types of candles and do not release soot or carbon dioxide when burned which is harmful to the environment.
Moreover, you can make them at home with little effort involved or purchase them from stores that sell organic products. Either way, investing in coconut wax candles will benefit you and your loved ones as well as the planet itself by keeping it clean and safe for living beings everywhere. For more candle articles, visit our site!