After a long and stressful day, who does not enjoy a warm bath surrounded by soothing candles? But did you know that the ambiance they create is not their only therapeutic quality? Using Candles and Melties made with all-natural ingredients can be as emotionally, spiritually and physically beneficial as other forms of Aromatherapy. But there are some things you should know before delving in.
The main concern with Candles and Melties used for Aromatherapy is to make sure that they are made with only the good stuff. Since the Aromatherapy industry is not fully regulated by the U.S. government, many companies use the term “Aromatherapy” to market products that are made with synthetic and even harmful ingredients (like paraffin wax, which contains formaldehyde). This means that when you burn these types of candles or melties, you are inadvertently inhaling toxic substances. No thank you!
In order for a candle or meltie to be Aromatherapy friendly, it must be made with soy wax, beeswax or other vegetable-based waxes that won’t release harmful particles into the air. Another added benefit is that these waxes tend to burn slower than synthetic ones, saving not only your health, but your money as well!
Another problem with many store-bought “Aromatherapy” candles and melties is that they contain synthetic oils, rather than 100% pure essential oils, since a large amount of oil must be used in order for the wax to retain the aromatic quality of the oil. This means that the product does not actually contain the amazing therapeutic properties of the oil that it has on its label. When buying candles and melties, it is important to look at the ingredients closely, to make sure that only “all-natural” and “non-synthetic” ones are used.
For some revitalizing ones that fit the Aromatherapy bill, check out our Candles and Melties, which are made with, you guessed it, only soy wax and 100% pure essential oils. How simple! With several aromas to choose from, you can find one to help you with anything from lack of attention to sleeplessness. Some of my favorite Candles for bath-time relaxation include Citrus Splash, Lavender and Woods. These marvelous Melties help me let go of stress: Calm Anger, Fresh Air and Patchouli.
If you would like to try your hand at creating your own candle, try the recipe below. This sweet and spicy candle is perfect for a gift or a treat for yourself!
Vanilla Spice Soy Wax Candle
Ingredients
- 4 c. Soy Wax
- 2 Wicks with a metal base
- 20 drops Cinnamon Essential Oil
- 20 drops Vanilla Essential Oil
- 2 3-4 oz. Jars (glass or metal)
- 1 Double-broiler, or a large glass bowl on top of a pot
- Skewer, chop-stick or a utensil for stirring the wax in the jar
- 2 Large clothespins
Instructions
In a double-broiler, or large glass bowl on top of a pot filled with 1 c. of water, bring the water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to low and add the soy flakes to the glass bowl or pan. Do not put in the water. Stir every minute until the flakes are reduced to a liquid. This process takes approx. 5-10 minutes. Once the soy is liquefied, turn off the heat and remove wax. Dip the metal ends of the wicks into the wax and place the ends of the wick in the center of each candle jar. Note: The wax acts like glue, securing the metal end at the bottom of the candle jar. Once the metal end is set in the wax, gently straighten the wick and secure it at the mouth of the jar with a clothespin (resting on the jar). Pour the essential oils into the liquid wax and stir gently for about 30 seconds. Slowly pour the wax into each jar (it helps to use a bowl or measuring cup designed for pouring liquids). Let the candles sit for about 6 hours, or until fully set. Once set, remove the clothespins and trim the top of the wicks to 1 inch. Burn candles for at least 1-2 hours each use.
*For informational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
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