Aromatherapy candles have long been a popular way to dispense the fragrant benefits of essential oils into the room. The gentle heat provided by the candle wick warms and releases the volatile compound molecules that interact with our scent receptors. This causes the brain to initiate soothing blood chemistry changes which we perceive as relaxation, stress reducing, or sometimes vitality and healing.

Scented candles have been used for many years to add pleasant fragrance to a room, but only the therapeutic grade essential oils added to the candle can promise the healing benefits of aromatherapy candles.

Aromatherapy candles usually have the highest concentration of essential oils of any aromatherapy product. They are generally made of soy or beeswax, rather than petroleum based wax to ensure purity of the scents diffused into the room. The wicks are even certified to be lead-free in the highest quality candles.

In addition to the fragrance released whether the candle is glowing or unlit, the appearance of shape, size, and color can add to the enjoyment of these candles. To the extent that aromatherapy appeals to all the senses, aromatherapy candles fill an important role in the ambience.

Tea light candles are often used in a diffuser to warm the essential oils slightly, but aromatherapy candles also come in votive size. A slightly larger size in clear glass allows the colors of the candle itself to be seen and enjoyed. Pillar candles are tall and don’t rely on the confinement of the glass or other container to hold and support them. Spa candles are intended to bring the atmosphere of a relaxing spa while in the comfort of your bathtub. Several small candles in various heights lend not only the aromatherapy essential oils scent, but the enjoyment for the other senses as well. Jar candles of various types are common as aromatherapy tools. Once the aromatherapy session is completed, you can simply return the lid to the jar and store the candle away till the next time.

Aromatherapy candles are usually rated by the length of burn time, with size being the key factor. Often a candle can be expected to burn for 35-40 hours, which provides an expectation of many soothing hours of enjoyment.

When choosing your aromatherapy candles, be sure to confirm that they are lead-free. You will also want to think about storage of candles when they are not being used. If you have only one signature essential oil, this will not be a problem, but if you routinely use several for different purposes, you should be able to isolate the individual aromatherapy products so scents don’t clash.