Essential Oils: Are They Beneficial?

Imagine: you’ve just drawn a warm bath, filled with luxurious oils. As you slowly sink into the silky water, soft, calming music drifts through the air. With each breath, you feel the weight of the day melting away. But there’s one thing missing from this perfect scene: a beautifully scented candle infused with essential oils, adding an extra layer of relaxation. 

But why do essential oils help us relax?

We won’t bore you with too much science, but here’s the gist: certain natural compounds in essential oils can have a real impact on your body. Take lavender, for example - it contains linalool and linalyl acetate, both known for their calming and soothing properties. Research shows that linalool can block neurotransmitters that stimulate the brain, helping to lower stress levels. It also encourages the release of calming neurotransmitters, which can ease feelings of anxiety. (We know we promised not to get too sciencey, but it’s pretty interesting, right?)

When these natural compounds are extracted and concentrated into essential oils, they become much more potent, making them perfect for use in fragrances and scented candles.

This means they provide therapeutic benefits as well as a more authentic scent compared to synthetic fragrances.

Is essential oil better than fragrance oil for candles?

If you’re asking from a health and environmental perspective, the short answer is yes.

Fragrance oils are made from synthetic chemicals designed to copy natural scents. Breathing in these artificial fragrances over time could cause harm, and the negative effects extend to the environment when these chemicals are released into the air during burning.

Essential oils, however, are natural and do not carry the same risks to your health or the environment.

That said, candles containing fragrance oils are generally more affordable and produce a stronger scent, so the comparison ultimately depends on your priorities.

Are essential oil candles more expensive?

Generally speaking, yes - but for good reasons.

There is a lot of work that goes into the production of essential oils as they are derived from natural sources which makes them more expensive than the synthetic alternatives. For example, it takes around 113 kilograms of lavender flowers to produce just under half a kilogram of lavender essential oil.

Because the scent of essential oils can be relatively subtle, more oil is often needed in candles to achieve a noticeable fragrance, which further increases the cost.

In addition, essential oil production often involves sustainable farming and harvesting practices. While these methods are more expensive, they help to reduce environmental impact.

On the other hand, fragrance oils are synthetically produced in labs using chemicals that are mass-produced and readily available, making them a more affordable option.

Are essential oil candles safe?

From a health and environmental perspective, essential oil candles are safer than those made with synthetic fragrances. However, to maximise the benefits, it’s important that the other materials, such as the wick and wax, are also natural. This ensures the candle is as safe and eco-friendly as possible.

What is the best essential oil for candles?

Well, it really depends on what you're hoping to achieve! Different essential oils have different effects on our bodies depending on their compounds and scents.

As we’ve mentioned, if you’re looking for relaxation, reducing anxiety, and improving sleep, lavender is an excellent choice as it’s perfect for calming the mind. Chamomile is another great option, with its mild, calming scent and natural sedative properties. It helps reduce anxiety, ease tension, and promote restful sleep.

If you’re after something to elevate energy levels, reduce stress or sadness, and promote a positive mood, citrus scents might be perfect. Lemon has a fresh, vibrant aroma that boosts energy and positivity, making it ideal for combating lethargy or sadness. It’s also great for mental clarity and focus. Sweet orange is another uplifting choice, with its cheerful fragrance that helps reduce stress while boosting energy and optimism. For a floral twist, geranium or jasmine would be lovely options.

If you need focus and mental clarity, rosemary is a smart pick. Alternatively, ginger, cedarwood, and sandalwood offer warm, grounding scents that also help sharpen focus.

And if you’re looking to bring a little romance into your life, create a cosy, intimate atmosphere with candles scented with rose, perfect for evoking feelings of love and connection. You might also try neroli, which offers a slightly citrusy floral note, or, if you prefer something musky and earthy, go for patchouli.

Do essential oils in candles have health benefits?

Yes, they do! For example, eucalyptus is excellent for clearing the airways and reducing congestion when inhaled, making it great for supporting respiratory health. Peppermint is invigorating and can help reduce headaches while boosting energy levels, which makes it perfect for combating fatigue. Additionally, studies suggest that ylang ylang may even help lower blood pressure, adding another layer of benefit to its soothing, floral scent.

Final thoughts

So, are essential oils really that good? We’d say yes! But that doesn’t mean you need to toss out all your candles that don’t contain them. Essential oils offer plenty of great benefits, but if you find a candle you love that doesn’t have them, it’s not the end of the world. It’s all about making informed choices and doing what brings you joy. After all, the best candle is the one that makes you happiest. ✨