Feng La
Apis cerana Fabricius; Apis mellifera Linnaeus
☯ TCM Properties
Resolves Toxicity; Promotes Tissue Regeneration and Heals Sores; Alleviates Pain; Stops Dysentery; Stops Bleeding
Botanical Description
Feng La is beeswax, the secretion of worker honey bees of Apis cerana (the Asian honey bee, the species used in classical Chinese apiculture) and Apis mellifera. It is produced by paired wax glands on the ventral abdomen of young workers and moulded into the hexagonal cells of the honeycomb. Crude wax recovered from melted, strained combs is pale to deep yellow, becoming nearly white on bleaching, with a faint honey-like odour and a mildly aromatic taste. The material is a plastic solid at room temperature, softening at about 35 C and melting between 62-65 C, insoluble in water but soluble in warm oils and most organic solvents. Chemically it is a complex mixture of long-chain monoesters of fatty acids and alcohols, free fatty acids, hydrocarbons and minor amounts of pollen and propolis residues.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| poultice | As needed | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Feng La (beeswax) is a neutral substance used in Chinese medicine primarily as a topical remedy for wounds, ulcers, burns, and skin conditions that are slow to heal. It draws out toxins, promotes the generation of new tissue, and relieves pain when applied to damaged skin. Historical internal use in small amounts for dysentery and diarrhea has been largely superseded by modern practice, which focuses on its well-established external applications in ointments, plasters, and wound-healing preparations.
Traditional American Uses
None Documented
Important Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.