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They BURN, fragrantly
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From vanilla and bayberry to spicy cinnamon and flowery jasmine, everything goes into a scented candle
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THEY COME in all shapes, sizes, in the loveliest of colours, and in some of the most exotic packaging. They are used in our day-to-day lives, on festive occasions, and are great gifting ideas. They are synonymous with images of light, cheer, sunshine, and festivity. Yes, we are talking about scented candles, which have become as common as normal candles. Candles have always formed an integral part of our lives; a well made properly burning candle, both scented and non-scented, produce harmless water vapour and carbon dioxide. Says Ms. Oberoi, owner of Raga: "Scented candles are very popular. They are visually appealing as most of them have attractive dry flowers pasted on them and it gives a pleasant feeling having them in the house."
So what are the different kinds of scents available in candles? They range from vanilla and bayberry to spicy cinnamon, flowery jasmine, carnation and exotic scents such as ginger and maple sugar. Candle fragrances generally are a combination of natural and synthetic materials — the same ingredients found in many popular consumer items such as perfumes, soaps, shampoos, or personal care products. Scented candles fly off the shelves, says Ezekiah Rajan of The Home Store outlet at Domlur. "Lavender and jasmine are extremely popular scents though others such as lemon, mandarin, peach, and rose are also available."
Scented candles have a therapeutic effect.
Do scented candles have a therapeutic effect? Yes, say the believers. Scented candles are associated with aromatherapy, which is based on the use of pure essential oils extracted from a variety of plants and trees. Aromatherapy uses scented oils (preferably essential oils) to promote healing, relieve stress, or just improve the mood. Essential oils are natural oils extracted from plants, right from flowers to roots to even the seed, and are extremely concentrated. Different scents have been shown to have varying effects on the mind and body. "They create a relaxed atmosphere and helps me unwind after a long day's work," says Jenny, a software professional.
Scents and characteristics
Bergamot: A citrus oil commonly used to relieve stress or anxiety.
Cedarwood: An energising scent that can be helpful with a cough.
Eucalyptus: Derived from the leaves of the eucalyptus plant; used as a decongestant and to help upper respiratory infections.
Lemon: Extracted from the rind, lemon oils are invigorating and refreshing. Jasmine: A soothing floral scent, commonly used to treat depression.
Lavender: A sweet, floral scent used to relieve stress, but also used as sedative.
Peppermint: Distilled from the leaves and flowers of the plant, peppermint can stimulate the mind help a lack of focus and even a headache.
Rose: Derived from the flower, it is romantic and gently cheering, yet calming.
Dos and don'ts
While burning candles, remember to keep away from drafts such as an air conditioning vent or an open window that can speed up burn time and produce smoke. It can cause your candles to burn unevenly and pillar candles to drip. Also, keep wax free of matches, wick trimmings, and debris.
RASHMI GOPAL RAO
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Metro Plus
Bangalore
Chennai
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