What to Do If You Swallowed Beeswax
If you've eaten honeycomb, you've probably swallowed some beeswax. Here's what to know.
Is beeswax safe to swallow?
Beeswax is non-toxic, and people have chewed and eaten honeycomb for thousands of years. Your body doesn't digest beeswax. Small amounts, like the wax in a bite of honeycomb, simply pass through your system.
If you swallowed a small amount
There's usually nothing to do. Drink some water and carry on with your day.
If you swallowed a large piece or a lot of wax
- Drink water and avoid eating more wax.
- Watch for stomach pain, bloating, vomiting or constipation over the next day or two.
- Large amounts can rarely cause a blockage. If symptoms are severe or don't improve, contact a doctor.
Get help right away if
- Someone is choking or has trouble breathing. Call 911.
- There are signs of an allergic reaction, such as swelling, hives or trouble breathing. Call 911.
- A young child swallowed a large amount of wax or a wax product such as a candle. Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 (US).
Chewing honeycomb
Many people chew honeycomb like gum: enjoy the honey, then spit out the leftover wax. Others swallow it. Both are common. If you're new to honeycomb, start with a small piece.
This page is general information, not medical advice. If you're worried, contact a healthcare professional. Do not feed honey or honeycomb to infants under 12 months old.