According to the Encyclopedia Britannica online (see Resources), "Paraffin wax is obtained from petroleum by dewaxing light lubricating oil stocks." There are many different grades of the substance based on the type of oils and which distillation methods are used. While only the highest grades are edible in small doses, all grades are quite versatile.
Candles
Paraffin wax is the main ingredient in most candles. The wax is melted and additives such as stearin or beeswax are added to harden the candle. Candles are made either by dipping wick in the melted wax or pouring the wax into a candle mold (see Resources).
Canning
Paraffin wax is a traditional seal for canning jars. Today, however, this method of sealing jars of home canned food with paraffin wax is considered unsafe. Better methods include using new mason jar lids in a hot water bath (see Resources).
Batik
Paraffin wax can be melted and applied to natural fabrics in beautiful designs. The fabric is then dyed. The dye will not effect the fabric protected with paraffin wax. Later, the wax is removed from the fabric. This method of decorating fabric is called batik.
Paper
Paraffin wax is used to coat paper. Wax paper has multiple uses in the kitchen. Pastry chefs freeze buttercream and sugar decorations on wax paper for later use. Wax paper is placed between meat patties before freezing, and is sometimes used to line baking pans (see Resources).
Health and Beauty
Paraffin wax is used by some health spas to treat pain. For example, a patient with arthritis in the hands will have her hands dipped in a paraffin wax bath. The wax holds the heat around the hand better than other methods, such as warm towels. An added benefit is the wax makes the skin smooth and supple.
Chocolate
Some types of paraffin waxes are edible, and wax is an ingredient in chocolate. The paraffin wax helps keep the candy glossy and solid at room temperature. It is, of course, used in small amounts. Not all paraffin waxes are edible.
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