Candles are a staple in many homes, helping us to relax and create a stress-free space. Scented candles can induce calmness by emitting scents that create specific feelings in the mind and body.
According to research, the sense of smell plays an important role in the physiological effects of mood, stress, and work capacity. The science of candles for health is rooted in the practice of aromatherapy, therefore, there are countless benefits of burning aromatherapy candles in your home.
Smell is one of our most powerful senses and shouldn’t be underestimated. Certain smells stimulate the part of your brain which is connected to memory and mood. For this reason, scented candles can give you a boost of energy, relieve stress, or even enhance your mental clarity.
Regular scented candles use synthetic fragrances which may have harmful side effects when inhaled. Aromatherapy candles, however, use natural essential oils, releasing a continuous scent into the air which, when breathed in, may offer many health benefits.
Aromatherapy Scents
The following is a list of popular scents commonly used to promote healthy living.
Lavender
Lavender is one of the most popular and versatile essential oils used in aromatherapy. Both the flower and oil have long histories of use in herbal medicine.
This scent promotes relaxation and helps to relieve anxiety, depression, and insomnia. A lavender aromatherapy candle is a perfect choice to light before bedtime for better sleep.
Our recommendation: Self Care Co. - CALM | Lavender + Orange
Frankincense
While not one of the most widely used oils, early research shows the many potential health benefits gained from the use of frankincense.
Frankincense has a history of use in traditional Chinese medicine for its treatment of inflammation and pain relief. Inhaling this scent may help to clear the nasal passageway, relieving congestion and promoting easy breathing.
Additionally, the sweet, woody aroma enhances mood by diminishing the feelings of stress and anxiety while improving concentration and memory.
Citrus
The use of citrus scents in aromatherapy is a common way to lift your mood, brighten your day, and bring freshness to your home. A citrus aromatherapy candle can help to ease anxiety and reduce frustration while boosting your emotional and physical energy.
There are many scents in the citrus family so, whether you opt for orange, lemongrass, bergamot, or any of the many other choices, these scents are sure to bring happiness to your home.
Our recommendation: Self Care Co. - UPLIFT | May Chang + Rosemary
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is another very popular aromatherapy scent and is used in many different products you probably already have at home like your chest rub or mouthwash. Eucalyptus is an extremely versatile oil with a seemingly endless list of health benefits.
Studies have shown that inhaling this scent can help ease allergy symptoms, working as a powerful anti-inflammatory and decongestant. Additionally, this scent can combat stress - having a soothing effect on the mind and body and promoting mental clarity.
A eucalyptus-infused candle is also a great choice to burn on those hot summer nights by working as a natural pest and insect repellent.
Peppermint
While most commonly used in its topical form, peppermint is a powerful scent in aromatherapy for its uplifting and invigorating properties.
Peppermint oil has an antispasmodic effect and can be used to relieve nausea and congestion. This scent is also a stimulant that may increase your ability to concentrate while giving you a boost of energy. Studies also show that peppermint has mood-elevating properties making it a great choice to help ease feelings of anxiety and depression.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon oil is known for its sweet, spicy fragrance and has been linked to several health and beauty benefits.
A cinnamon-infused candle is a very inviting scent that is known to help fight nerves, fatigue, and exhaustion. It can also help relieve headaches and increase mental alertness which can help with focus.
If you are in search of a candle to work or study alongside, then we highly recommend burning a cinnamon scented candle.
Our recommendation: Self Care Co. - COSY | Cinnamon, Wild Orange + Clove
Conclusion
In the ever-moving, fast-paced world we live in, it’s no wonder that we’re always in search of ways to relieve stress and relax at home. Adding a high-quality, aromatherapy candle can improve your daily life by offering benefits such as stress and anxiety relief and mental clarity among many other benefits.
Choosing the right aromatherapy candles can be a difficult task. At healf, we know how hard it can be to sort through all your shopping options, so we’re here to help. If you’re ready to buy a scented candle for your home, take a look at our selection of aromatherapy candles.
