Although the logic in the previous post, about lemon (or banana) oil being superior, seems reasonable, why would the Smithsonian go to the trouble to seek out (and promote) a beeswax base product, if lemon oil was adequate? I don't think any oil is as good as a wax. At least that is my experience with them as waterproofers for boots and skin. After reading these posts, I'm going to quit using linseed oil on my garden tool handles and try the beeswax polish instead. Liz Day [log in to unmask] Pink Inchworm Ranch Indianapolis, Indiana, central USA