Candles 101: how scented candles work and their benefits

How does a scented candle really work?

We love Scented Candles. There’s something fascinating how jar of fragrant wax eases one’s mood and takes you to a place of tranquility and even easily impresses your guests! At the same time the flickering light of the candle flame is so mesmerizing that it just calms you down by looking at it!

But wonder about the History of scented candles and how it actually works? Lets explore!

The History of Scented Candles

Candles date back as far as 3000 B.C with the eqyptians that firs used animal fats. Candles then progresses through centuries with the use of plants, insects and even animal waxes used primarily as sources of light. It wasnt until the mid-19th century where advancements were made in wax and candle production that allowed scented candles to take off!

So how does a Scented candle work?

For a flame to ignite, you need the “fire triangle” where you have oxygen,heat and fuel. Take either of the element away and the flame will die. The fire triangle takes place due to the candle wax, the wick and the flame.

When you light the wick of your scented candle, the heat from the flame melts the wax. The fragrance and essential oil molecules in the wax are heated and give off the aroma. This aroma is released through the evaporation from the hot wax pool (melt pool) hences natural scented candles usually give off the scent gradually.

So you now understand why we say that it is important that your scented candles melts evenly and has a full melt pool to give off optimum fragrance and provide the best scenting experience. A few things to remember on each burn is to ensure that you are burning the candle on an even surface and away from wind drafts.

Not all Scented Candles are made the same!!

Paraffin wax, are commonly used in mass-produced candles available in the market. They generally give a strong scent throw while using lesser fragrances and hence cheaper to produce and readily available.
But, according to studies in 2009, paraffin candles were found to release potentially carcinogenic toxic chemicals (toluene & benzene) when burned. It also tends to release more soot when burned and hence staining walls and furniture and it affects our respiratory system

Soy wax candles on the other hand generally burn cleaner and with minimal to no sooting so you and your family can enjoy scents without any worries!

Pahal Wellness understands this and always opts for using the most natural scents and the best soy wax they can procure in our candles!

There is  no doubt that candles have come a long way from being just a source of light to being  a must have in the modern household, even as a home decor, self-care companion, aromatherapy, as a gift and more!

Now go on, enjoy your candle!