Products
Candelilla wax is available as a pure substance in specialized stores.
Structure and properties
Candelilla wax is a yellow to brown, hard wax obtained from the leaves of the candelilla plant of the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae). The plant grows in semi-deserts in Mexico, in South America and in the southern United States. The odorless wax is lipophilic and dissolves in organic solvents. In water, however, it is insoluble. The melting point is about 70°C. Its components include hydrocarbons and esters of fatty acids and alcohols (including sitosterol).
Effects
Candelilla wax gives products a beautiful sheen, protects ingredients and prevents sticking together.
Fields of application
As a release and coating agent, for example for:
- Sweets, chocolate
- Fruits, e.g. citrus fruits, apples, pears, peaches, melons, pineapples.
- Nuts
- Coffee beans
Candelilla wax is also used for cosmetics (eg lip balms, lipsticks), as an excipient for medicines and as a chewing mass for chewing gum.
Adverse effects
Candelilla wax is generally considered to be safe (GRAS).
