Beeswax is an additive in food and cosmetics.
Beeswax is found in many household items, such as cosmetics, foods, furniture waxes and polishes, and candles. You may see the label "non-toxic" on any beeswax product and think it is safe because it is natural. While the FDA considers beeswax to be a safe food additive in limited amounts, it can cause health problems when eaten in large amounts or burned for long periods of time.
Causes
Beeswax toxicity can be caused in two ways: By ingesting large amounts or by burning it. Ingesting large amounts of beeswax can result in a serious intestinal blockage. Burning beeswax can expose you to low levels of carbon monoxide.
Intestinal Blockage Symptoms
The amount of ingested beeswax that will cause intestinal blockages may be different for each person, but the symptoms are the same. The stomach area hurts and swells. Bowel movements may stop. You may feel nauseated and need to vomit.
Intestinal Blockage Treatment
Intestinal blockages may be treated through using purgatives to eliminate the beeswax from the intestine. Supportive measures, such as staying hydrated and continuing to eat foods that do not worsen your nausea, may also cause you to eliminate the beeswax blockage through a bowel movement.
Low Level Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide can be poisonous even in low levels, and burning beeswax candles in a closed room may bring on symptoms of low level carbon monoxide poisoning. These symptoms can include difficulty in breathing, nausea or headaches.
Low Level Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Treatment
Treat low level carbon monoxide poisoning by getting into fresh air immediately by leaving the house or opening doors and windows if you cannot leave on your own. Go to an emergency room and get a blood test to check your carbon monoxide levels. Stay out of the area in which the poisoning occurred. The symptoms should go away once you are out of the contaminated area.
Tags: large amounts, carbon monoxide, eliminate beeswax, Intestinal Blockage, level carbon