Enjoy the Convenience and Simplicity of a Scented Aromatherapy Candle
AUTHOR: Mary Littleton
Lighting a scented aromatherapy candle is a simple, convenient way to experience the therapeutic benefits of essential oils. The essential oils contained in a scented aromatherapy candle can help you relax, rejuvenate, heal, or breathe easier. There is an aromatherapy option for practically everything that might ail you mentally or physically.
To make the most of any scented aromatherapy candle purchase, take the time to learn how to purchase a quality product. Aromatherapy candles differ from other scented candles in significant ways, and for therapeutic purposes only a scented aromatherapy candle will do.
The Aromatherapy Difference
Scented candles may derive their fragrance from practically any source. Synthetic fragrances and manufactured perfumes can and do scent candles strongly. The scented aromatherapy candle differs in the source of its aroma. Aromatherapy products derive their unique scents from essential oils. Essential oils are naturally extracted from plant or tree leaves, bark, roots, stems, or flowers. Synthetic or man-made chemicals are never added to pure essential oils, and a scented candle requires no artificial fragrances.
It is not only the source of the aroma that makes a scented aromatherapy candle unique. The essential oils used in their production contain special, therapeutic properties artificially produced scents do not possess. An artificially scented lavender candle and a lavender scented aromatherapy candle are two entirely different things. The first may smell pleasant, but has no medicinal value. The latter will smell captivating and is highly likely to have a relaxing, soothing effect on your mental and physical state.
An All Natural Alternative
A quality scented aromatherapy candle will be different from regular scented candles in other ways, too. Many of these candles are now made with soy wax. As opposed to petroleum based paraffin candles, vegetable based soy wax candles burn cleaner and produce no toxic byproducts during burning. Paraffin does not carry essential oils’ scents as well as soy, and paraffin tends to produce more smoke and soot during burning, as well. Unlike some wire wicks used in paraffin candles, the natural cotton or hemp wicks typically used in soy candles are lead-free and completely non-toxic.
While beeswax candles offer some advantages over paraffin varieties, beeswax tends to be pricier than soy wax. It is not uncommon for a scented candle designed for aromatherapy to contain both soy and beeswax. The additional cost of soy or beeswax candles is nearly always justifiable. This is particularly so when it comes to a scented aromatherapy candle.
Selecting a Scented Aromatherapy Candle
Perhaps the first step in choosing a scented aromatherapy candle is to explore some essential oils and become familiar with their scents and properties. An experienced aromatherapist can provide valuable information, and you may wish to try an aromatherapy session to determine which essential oils you find beneficial.
Another great source of information is an aromatherapy specialty store. Either a brick and mortar or internet shop can provide helpful information. Some offer small samples of essential oils at reduced or very low cost. At the very least, consider consulting a guide book to essential oils and their properties.