Beeswax (Waxy substance secreted by the honeycomb, yellow-brown, smooth, granular fracture, soft when pinched, fragrant when melted)
Amber (Fossilized Tree Resin)
【Name】
【Source】
Shen Nong’s Classic of Materia Medica
【Frequency of Use】
D
【Origin】
It is a waxy substance secreted by honeybees such as the Chinese honeybee, which is refined.
【Characteristics】
1. Yellow Wax: Mostly in irregular lumps of varying sizes. The whole is yellow or yellow-brown, opaque or slightly transparent. The surface is smooth and feels greasy to the touch. Light in weight, it floats on water. It is soft and brittle when cold, with a granular fracture surface. It softens when rubbed with hands. It has a honey-like aroma, a mild taste, and is delicate and sticky when chewed. Insoluble in water, soluble in ether and chloroform.
2. White Wax: Also known as beeswax. It is a white lump. The quality is relatively pure. The odor is relatively weak, and other properties are the same as yellow wax. However, the commonly used white wax is extracted from petroleum and belongs to the mineral category.
【Identification】
The best quality is yellow in color, pure, soft in texture, greasy to the touch, and has a distinct honey-like aroma.
【Category】
Invertebrate Animals