Aromatherapy candles are the kind of candles, which are made out of natural materials such as bees wax, blended with essential oils. The term Aromatherapy encompasses a wide range of products, made out of naturally occurring plant materials, which have both fragrance and therapeutic values.
Candles have been used from time immemorial as a source of light. They used candles to create an ambience to suit various occasions. The occasion could be a ‘romantic’ or a ‘spiritual’one. It has also been a source of inspiration for many. When electricity was not invented, candles and chandeliers were the source of light.
Aromatherapy candles are supposed to be made out of natural waxes, but synthetic waxes, such as Paraffin waxes, a by-product of Petroleum industry, is also used. The critical factor is making Aromatherapy candles, is to choose the right type of wax, based on its physical properties such as the melting point, emission of obnoxious fumes, homogeneity when blended with essential oils and mouldability .The real Aromatherapy candles are very expensive, because the pure essentials are costly. Similarly the original beeswax is equally expensive, due to lack of supply, by dwindling bees population.
The candlelight creates an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity and sets a right mood for romance, for couples. Many restaurants offer ‘candle light dinner’ for couple, who wants to get away from a hectic day of work. Such dinners are often accompanies by a soft music. When the candles are Aromatherapy candles, it enhances the romantic ambience by supplying a mild and pleasant fragrance. The candles are coloured with dyes or colorants that adds decoration. The candle stand is tastefully made out of various materials such as ceramic or glass. It is the whole combination of perfume, music, bright colours of the candle and the attractive decoration of candle stand; transform the atmosphere, completely to a lively and exhilarating one.
The fragrance of the essential oil used in making Aromatherapy candles, depends on the occasion. A mild Lavender oil with colour of the Lavender flower, creates a sense of pleasantness and well being. Candles made with beeswax and sandalwood oil, offers a natural wooden appearance and brings harmony and serenity. Making an Aromatherapy candle, requires a good knowledge of essential oils and experience of candle making. A candle should last for couple of hours and suitable additives be incorporated to modify the wax accordingly. Finally, the safety of the candles is of paramount importance. The molten wax blended with the essential oils and colorants are poured into the mould with the wick at the centre of the mould. The length of the wick in the candle should be of right length. The candle should not be allowed to burn into the container, especially with glass containers.
The candles made from Paraffin wax, often releases a toxic odour, and it is extremely important to use natural waxes, with the right blend of essential oils, to create an outstanding Aromatherapy candle. The colours used in Aromatherapy candles should meet FD&C (Food, drugs and cosmetic) standards. Currently Aromatherapy candle making is not regulated by health regulations and goof-manufacturing methods (GMP) should be followed.
