ABSTRACT
Candelilla (Euphorbia antisyphilitica Zucc.) is one of the non-timber specie of the Chihuahuan desert. For two centuries, large quantities of non-timber candelilla have been harvested from semiarid lands of Northeast of Mexico, mainly in Coahuila state. The traditional method for wax extraction consists in submerged the plant into boiling water with sulfuric acid in an iron cauldron known as “paila.” However, this archaic method was developed in 1914 without any modification until now that exist a new eco-friendly method for wax extraction. Due to its application, it represents a reliable source of income to communities and contributes to economic development, but should be considered the regulation that exists for exploitation. Thus, decisions may be taken comprehensive support for producers to help improve the extraction conditions, environmental impact and profitability of the product (candelilla wax). And intervention programs which will regulate their operation and opening new markets for innovative products.
