PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE OF CANDELILLA

Abstract

Euphorbia antisyphilitica is a plant that belongs to the family Euphorbiaceae, that whose members are characterized as being similar to cacti, but the difference that produces latex, the species grows in the Mexican semi-desert whith the name of candelilla. the first person than study their properties was Zuccarini, demonstrating that has healing properties against syphilis. the plant has long stems and erect green-grayish that have the particularity than in turn it produces a waxen material that protect against fungi, insects, bacteria; but mainly against the extreme climate of the semi-desert. the recollection for the extraction of wax is one of the most important economic activities for the northeast of the country, more specific form in the denominated region candelillera. However, for almost one century used the same method which involves the use of sulfuric acid at high concentrations and consequently contaminates the environment, causing damages to the health and reduces the wax quality; the one which, later on has to go through a process of filtering and bleaching. in this paper shows an overview of the importance it has had, has and a future perception of candelilla wax.