Abstract:Beeswax is one of the most common materials which can be easily acquired from nature, and occupies an important position in the ancient human societies. Analysis of beeswax residues can directly provide scientific evidence of the utilization of beeswax. This paper introduces the production and composition of beeswax, reviews the analytical methods for beeswax residues, and summarizes the scientific identification evidence of beeswax residues, all of which could throw light on the utilization of ancient beeswax and other related issues for further research.