618. Mel.—Honey
A saccharine secretion deposited in the honeycomb by the bee, A'pis mellif'era Linné (Pam. Apidae).
USES.—Mainly as a vehicle for remedial agents.
The honeycomb, from which the honey is drained, is the source of the two pharmaceutical products:
618a. CERA FLAVA.—YELLOW WAX. BEESWAX. Obtained by slicing the honeycomb, draining it thoroughly, melting the residue after impurities have subsided, and allowing the melted liquid to cool. A yellowish or brownish-yellow solid, having an odor suggesting honey, and a rather agreeable taste. It melts at about 63°C, (145.4°F.).
618b. CERA ALBA.—WHITE WAX. BLEACHED WAX. The yellow wax is bleached by exposing an extended surface to the light and atmospheric influence. This is done in various ways. Bleaching may be accomplished by chemical means, such as by the use of chlorine gas, etc. A white, shining, inodorous, insipid solid, fusing at about 65°C. (149°F.). For Tests see U.S.P.
USES.—As an ingredient in cerates, ointments, plasters, etc.
