carnaúba

Carnaúba is a palm tree native to northeastern Brazil, scientifically known as Copernicia prunifera. It is widely recognized for its valuable wax, often referred to as "the queen of waxes." This wax is produced by the leaves of the palm and is harvested by drying and beating the leaves. The resulting powder contains the carnaúba wax, which is then refined for various industrial and commercial uses.

The carnaúba palm is a tall, slender tree with a distinctive fan-shaped crown of leaves. It thrives in arid and semi-arid regions, often growing in floodplains and alongside rivers. The tree plays an important ecological role in its native habitat, providing shelter and resources for local wildlife. Its resilience to drought makes it well-suited to the challenging environment of the Caatinga biome.

The primary economic product derived from carnaúba is its wax. Carnaúba wax is a hard, durable, and lustrous substance with a high melting point. These properties make it an ideal ingredient in a wide range of products. It is commonly used in polishes for cars, furniture, and shoes, as well as in cosmetics such as lipstick, mascara, and lotions. In the food industry, it serves as a glazing agent for candies and fruits. It also finds applications in pharmaceutical coatings and as a component in certain industrial lubricants and electrical insulation. The harvesting and processing of carnaúba wax support a significant local economy in Brazil.