Scented
Candles
by Robert Simic
Not only do scented candles lend
flattering, soft light and a special
atmosphere to a room, they also fill the
space with a wonderful fragrance of your
choice. Even unscented candles burn away
unpleasant smells, in or out of doors and
they are as effective as any atomizer.
(Any candle will burn away the smell of
cigarette smoke – and more effectively so
if a little vanilla perfume is added to
it.)
The longer a it burns, the more
aromatic it will be. This is because the
greater the area of molten wax, the more
vapour and perfume is released. As
container ones have a bigger pool of
molten wax, they are particularly suited
as scented candles.
If you like a richly scented
candle, one way is to go for a larger
container or mould and give it more than
one wick. This will create a bigger pool
of molten wax and thus a stronger
aroma.
Scents or essential oils, herbs
or aromatic flowers can also be added –
i.e. you can infuse the wax with these
scents.
The best
known, for utilitarian purposes, are
probably those scented with citronella,
as they will keep mosquitoes and midges
at bay, in or out of doors. Generally,
however, we associate them with romance,
festivity and luxury. They can really do
wonders for creating a general feeling or
mood.
Adding perfume to candle wax
makes the wax more liquid. This is the
reason why most of them come in some kind
of a container -- a glass or jar of some
kind, often terracotta. Used fragrances
can be anything you like – from heavy
oriental fragrances to fresh floral
scents.
Floating candles are usually
scented; not only do they have a broad
base, but the cool water helps to prevent
the molten wax from becoming too liquid
and messy. (Small foil cupcake holders
make wonderful moulds for
them!)
Generally speaking, they should
not be lit before serving a meal – their
strong aroma, mixed with that of the food
you have prepared, may not go well
together. Light them after dinner, when
you serve coffee.
One can choose from a wide range
of fragrances -- whatever suits your mood
-- rich, heady, strong fragrances such as
jasmine or rose, or earthy woody scents
such as sandalwood and cedar.
Furthermore, aromatherapists will tell
you that certain smells have certain
effects on humans; their research tells
you that some fragrances are soothing,
relaxing and create a general feeling of
well-being -- Jasmine, Lavender, Ylang
Ylang and Geranium.
For more information on Candles,
please visit: http://www.custom-scented-candles.com
About The Author
Robert Simic - Author of
http://www.custom-scented-candles.com
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