Are you a fan of scented candles and essential oils? If so, you may have considered combining the two for an enhanced aromatherapy experience. However, using essential oils in candles may not be the best idea for a variety of reasons. In this article, we’ll dive into why it’s not recommended to use essential oils in candles and how you can still enjoy the benefits of aromacology without risking the potential drawbacks.
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The Problem with Essential Oils in Candles
When it comes to essential oils, heat is an essential factor that can make or break their effectiveness. Applying too much heat to these precious oils can alter their chemical composition, subsequently reducing their therapeutic benefits. Here are some reasons why using essential oils in candles isn’t an ideal option:
1. Evaporation and Degradation of Oils
Essential oils are volatile by nature, meaning they evaporate quickly when exposed to heat. As the candle burns, the essential oils can evaporate too quickly, leaving very little aroma behind. Moreover, the heat from the candle flame can cause the oils to degrade, reducing their therapeutic properties.
2. Inadequate Scent Throw
Unlike synthetic fragrances, essential oils have a lower scent throw, which means their aroma doesn’t travel as far from the candle. When essential oils are used in candles, the scent may be barely noticeable or entirely lost in the room, defeating the purpose of a scented candle.
3. Combustion Safety Concerns
Essential oils are flammable, and adding them to a candle increases the risk of a flare-up or accidents. Moreover, since essential oil candles burn at a higher temperature, the risk of the container cracking or breaking increases, potentially causing burns or fire hazards.
4. Cost Ineffectiveness
Essential oils are relatively expensive, given their extraction process and the number of plant materials needed to produce them. Using essential oils in candles is not the most cost-effective way to enjoy their benefits, as you may require a large amount of oil to produce the desired fragrance intensity.
Why Not To Use Essential Oils In Candles Example:
Incorporating essential oils in your daily life doesn’t have to involve using them in candles. Instead, you can use more suitable methods that ensure their effectiveness without compromising their therapeutic properties. Here’s an example of how you can enjoy essential oils safely and efficiently:
Aromatherapy Diffusers
Using an aromatherapy diffuser is an excellent alternative to candles. Diffusers come in various types, including ultrasonic, nebulizing, and evaporative. Ultrasonic diffusers use water and ultrasonic waves to create a fine mist, while nebulizing diffusers atomize the essential oils into the air without water. Evaporative diffusers use a fan to disperse the oils in the air.
These diffusers disperse the oils in a controlled manner, allowing you to regulate the intensity of the aroma per your preference. Diffusers are safe, efficient, and allow you to fully experience the benefits of essential oils without the risks associated with candles.
Although using essential oils in candles may seem like a great idea, various reasons make it less than ideal. Instead, opt for other methods that provide a more effective and safe way of incorporating essential oils, like aromatherapy diffusers. Share this article with fellow essential oil enthusiasts, and explore the Oshu Oils range of essential oils to find the perfect combination for your aromacology journey. Be sure to also browse other helpful guides on the Oshu Oils blog for comprehensive information on essential oils and their various uses.
