Sitaram Saraf

Shellac is a natural resin secreted by the lac insect (Kerria lacca), primarily found on host trees such as Palas, Kusum, and Ber in parts of India and Southeast Asia. After the insects secrete the resin onto the branches, it is harvested and processed to produce various commercial forms. This remarkable substance has been used for centuries, valued for its versatility, gloss, and biodegradability.

Once collected, the raw resin—known as sticklac—is refined through several stages to remove impurities, resulting in seedlac and eventually processed into shellac in its many forms: hand-made, machine-made, dewaxed, bleached, and more. Each grade is tailored for specific industrial and commercial applications, depending on the purity, color, and physical properties.

Shellac is widely appreciated as a non-toxic, food-safe, and eco-friendly coating. It finds applications in industries ranging from food and pharmaceuticals to cosmetics, electronics, wood finishing, printing inks, and leather. Due to its natural origin, shellac is biodegradable and renewable, making it a preferred alternative to synthetic resins in environmentally conscious sectors. Its unique ability to form glossy, hard, and moisture-resistant films makes it indispensable in modern and traditional industries alike.