How Do You Use Essential Oils to Make "Aromatherapy" Candles?

The term "aromatherapy" is a branch of alternative medicine which claims that the specific "aromas" carried by the essential oils have curative effects. The healing art "aromatherapy" traces back to 4,000 B.C. where the Greeks, Romans, Egyptians, and Persians use to burn herbs and flowers for curative and cosmetic purposes. In ancient Egypt, plant oils were widely used for spiritual relaxation, cosmetics and for embalming and mummification of the dead.

The term "aromatherapy candles" is used loosely in Western societies, because, unlike other cultures, we mainly use "aromatherapy candles" for "aesthetic" qualities vs. healing qualities. We want the calming, soothing aromas to aid in meditation, bathing and relaxing activities.

Natural candles are becoming more popular with the development of natural waxes such as soy wax and palm waxes. There is a greater desire by consumers to go "green" with all natural ingredients in candle making. Using all natural soy wax that is a renewable resource, grown right here in the U.S.A. has gained popularity in the few years, since the development of soy wax in 1998. Soy wax is hydrogenated soybean oil that is non-toxic, biodegradable and environmentally friendly. Combining all natural ingredients, including natural scents, to make an "aromatherapy" candle is highly desirable.

A lot of so called "aromatherapy" candles out on the market today contain paraffin wax (which is a byproduct of the crude oil process) and fragrance oils that are chemically derived. Some major manufacturers have paraffin wax, combined with natural scents. Some have natural waxes combined with chemical derived synthetic scents. My idea of a natural "aromatherapy candle" is one that is all natural. So, what are natural scents? They are essential oils.

Essential oils are volatile parts of plants, trees, fruits and roots that are extracted by various methods: steam distillation, cold-press extraction, chemical solvent extraction and the effleurage method. Essential oils that are "pure" will mostly have their botanical name on the jar, and come in dark colored bottles for protection from sunlight. They should be stored in cool, dark places, and out of reach of children and pets. Other essential oils are blended with carrier oils such as jojoba and are considered "diluted". Some candle manufacturers sell "essential oils", but they come in clear plastic containers, and are synthetically derived, or are blended with alcohol or other solvents.

Because of their concentrated nature, pure essential oils can be more expensive than fragrance oils and come in small bottles - drams (1/8 oz), 1/6 oz., etc. They either have a closed lid or a dropper to distribute the essential oils. Price can range from anywhere from $5 to $75 for a fraction of an ounce of pure essential oils.

So, how do you use essential oils in candle making? Good question - and there are many answers to that question, depending on who you talk to. When I originally tried to research this topic a year ago, there was very little information out on the Internet, with candle supply companies, or any e-books I purchased. One year later, there is a wide variety of answers published in articles, candle supply websites, and so-called "candle gurus". Some experts claim that usage per pound of wax is 1 oz - which is similar to using fragrance oils. Now, 1 oz of pure essential oils can be either incredibly strong or incredibly expensive. Others claim that using as little 3-20 drops/pound of wax.

I personally believe that the aromatherapy candles should use much less essential oils than fragrance oils for two reasons:

1 Style & Taste. When using essential oils in aromatherapy candles, I want a milder, less dominant, natural scent aroma from the essential oils. I don't want an over-powering Cinnamon Spice fragrance oil aroma that's going to fill my entire house for days. I want a "natural" candle, because I want a soothing, relaxing, mild, fresh, natural aroma that gives just enough scent to soothe my senses for a beautiful bubble bath, meditation, yoga or Pilates exercises. I don't want the aroma competing with what I'm trying to achieve - relaxation.

2. Cost. Essential oils are expensive, and cost should be considered when buying and using "pure" essential oils in candle making. First of all one dram (1/8 oz) of 100% pure Peppermint oil (made right here in the U.S.A.) on sale was $5/dram plus shipping. Honestly, do you think you it's cost effective to use $5 of Peppermint oil in one 8-12 oz. soy candle? I don't think so, besides, it may be too strong. Fragrance oils (mainly synthetics) can be 10 times less expensive when purchased in bulk. I've used blends of essential oils with 1/6 oz. and made three 12 oz. soy candles, and they were perfectly scented. So, it's the cost/benefit rule you have to apply in determining how much you're willing to pay to achieve your desired outcome.

Another important consideration in how much essential oils to use in candle making, is using the wax manufacturers guide in how much fragrance/essential oils that the wax will absorb in order to make a safe candle. I primarily use 100% soy waxes for my candle making, and the manufacturers recommendation is to use 3-9% of fragrance oil per pound of soy wax. There are additives which can increase those percentages, but I mainly use 1 oz. of fragrance oil/pound of soy wax, which is approximately 6%. When using essential oils, I use much less than 1%/pound of wax. It all depends on how strong or pure the natural oil is and my taste, of course!

So, with those facts explained, using essential oils is a matter of style, taste and cost. If you are selling your candles, you pass along your costs to the consumer, but hopefully, you can market and price your candles effectively to sell them at a profit. If you are making candles for your own enjoyment, then it's a matter of what you're happy with - milder/stronger, and whether cost is a factor for you.

By Laureen Falco

Camphor Oil - Its Essential Aspects

Camphor is the white, waxy, terpenoid and transparent with a strong aromatic odor. It is extracted from Cinnamomum Camphora from the lauraceae family and it is also called true camphor. Although this oil has toxic effects, it can be used in vapor therapy to clear the lungs. Camphor oil is produced in 3 fractions known as white, yellow and brown camphor. Among these only white is used as it has clear and fresh smell, the other two are not used in aromatherapy because they are toxic and carcinogenic due to the presence of safrole.
It can be used for many purposes like arthritis, bronchitis, cold, coughs, depression, fever, flu, gout, infections, inflammation, insect repellant, muscular aches and pains, nervous tension, oily skin conditions, rheumatism, shock, sprains. It blends well with citrus oils, lavender, eucalyptus, rosemary and spicy oils. But this white camphor oil should be avoided with homeopathic and while pregnant because then it may cause skin irritation.
The active component of camphor oil is found in every part of the camphor tree and this tree is native to Taiwan, China, and Japan and can often grow very old. The tree must be at least 50 years old at the time of extraction of the oil. Camphor oil acne is one of the important uses of camphor and it is used in a number of professional acne skin care products. It helps in revitalizing and rejuvenating the skin and it can be effectively combined with castor oil to treat acne.
In cases when hair is falling due to bacterial and fungal infections this herbal oil can be used effectively. Along with antiseptic qualities camphor oil fights fungus and viruses naturally to help bring back healthy and nourished hair. It is one of the best oils that can nourish your hair and make them healthy and shiny and can be used by anyone who suffers from hair loss. As it has anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal and anti-viral property, it is very useful in case of scalp related problems and dandruff. Regular use of this oil should be accompanied with plenty of water, nutritious diet and adequate rest for its complete benefits in the growth of the hair. This herbal remedy is also used sometimes for eyebrows.
The aroma of the camphor oil promotes calmness and provides soothing effect to the one using it. It has amazing ability to treat various disorders as we have discussed above and hence, it is one of the best oil to be used in day to day life.

By Sanjeev Kumar Chaudhary

Pomegranate Essential Oil - A Natural Bliss

Pomegranate essential oil is extracted from the seeds of the fruit Pomegranate through the process of cold pressing. It is originated from the parts of Asia, Africa and Europe and it is extensively grown in the hilly regions due to the apt moderate climatic conditions. The fruit pomegranate consists of about 200 to 1400 tiny seeds which are known as pomegranate arils. These arils taste sweet in savor. In the eighteenth century, arils the seeds of this essential oil giving fruit were brought to America for the extensive commercial production.
In Judaism, this fruit is considered to be a symbol of virtue and justice and it is consumed on every significant special events and festivals. Moreover, Christians employ this fruit for their religious decoration purposes and it also symbolizes as one of the good things of god's creation as it is grown in the garden of paradise.
Therapeutic Properties of Organic Pomegranate oil
Pomegranate essential oil is a rich source of vital minerals and vitamins required for the healthy body and mind and posses numerous therapeutic properties that includes antioxidant, anti ageing, anti microbial and has a lot of healing elements. This organic oil is pale yellow in color and has a very mild fragrance and it blends amazingly well with other carrier oils.
Numerous Beneficial Uses
Digestive System: Natural pomegranate oil is enriched with elements which further help in the treatment of disturbed digestive system and other stomach related ailments such as cholera, diarrhea and dysentery.
Improves cardiac functioning: This organic oil is a good source in maintaining the adequate blood flow in the body. It reduces the risk of cardiac arrest and heart strokes. This essential oil comprises of various antioxidant agents that helps the blood arteries clear of any clots and thus, controls the cholesterol of the body.
Oral health: Pomegranate oil is proficient enough to maintain the good and health oral health of the body by killing the bacterial and viral infections that can cause dental plaque.
Skin Care: It is an excellent source in improving and treating the damaged skin and extensively used to moisturize and massage the skin. Thus, help in maintaining the skin's pH level.
Cancer: Pomegranate oil constituted of a high level of anti oxidant elements which are very effective in fighting the cancer radials and it is efficient enough to eradicate the risk of prostate and breast cancer.
Anemia: This natural oil is a good source of iron which is very essential for the people who are suffering from the deficiency and are anemic. It further reduces the symptoms of dizziness, weakness and exhaustion in the body.
Help in Diabetes: It is very advantageous for the diabetic patients and very capable of reducing the threat of coronary diseases. Thus, maintains the required sugar level of the body.

By Abhinav Kr Singh

The Benefits of Using Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy came from two words. The word aroma means fragrance or smell and therapy means treatment. It is thought that aromatherapy benefits include treatment and prevention of some diseases by using essential oils. Essential oils came from plants, flowers, leaves, bark or roots. These oils are typically mixed with other oils to create different recipes which suits different effects, and can be in the form of lotions, soaps, bath salts, soaks, perfumes and even candles.
There are three modes of aromatherapy application. First is aerial diffusion, which means environmental fragrance or simply using essential oils to fragrant the room. Second is direct inhalation, for respiratory disinfection and decongestion. Lastly is the topical application or using it as general massage, bath, or therapeutic skin care.
It is said that aromatherapy works by stimulating the smell receptors in the nose, which then sends impulses to the brain's limbic system, which is responsible in controlling emotions and memory. However, others say that Aromatherapy does not cure conditions, but helps the body to find a natural way to cure itself and improve immune response.
Some studies have shown that aromatherapy can relieve stress, depression, and anxiety. It also improves quality of life and promotes good sleep. Pregnant women use aromatherapy to normalize childbirth and to increase their satisfaction in their labor experiences.
Aromatherapy strengthens our body, increases blood circulation and even boosts the immune system. The essential oils can stimulate and calm our system. It is also widely used in baby baths. It purifies the atmosphere and helps teething problems, itchy skin, and sleep problems.
Rosemary and Lavender Aromatherapy are both associated with feelings of contentment. They promote good mood and also release calming and soothing effects. Peppermint aromatherapy can increase memory and alertness, which is perfect for stressed students and workaholics. Lavender oil is also great for headaches. You can apply some on your temples or to a warm bowl of water, then drape a towel over your head and inhale it for a few minutes.
Sinuses and colds can be cured by aromatic chemicals like eucalyptus and menthol. Using aromatic oils in massages are also helpful in physical pains such as body aches, sprains, muscle pains, and migraines. The oils are quickly absorbed by the skin, bringing recovery.
Aromatherapy is very beneficial in skin health. Essential oils are said to be anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti inflammatory. It also has healing properties. Jasmine, Lavender and Rose oils are helpful in fighting aging and moisturizes the skin. Olive oils and Tea Tree Oils are also good face-cleansers.
However, we should be careful in choosing essential oils to use in aromatherapy. Some essential oils are highly concentrated and can cause skin irritations. Some can't be used by pregnant and lactating women, while others can be toxic to domestic animals. It is still best to consult your doctor before doing an aromatherapy.
By Sheena Magdaraog