A history of scented candles in the UK
Hello and welcome to my blog! Today I want to share with you the fascinating history of scented candles in the UK and why I love selling vegan soy wax candles. If you are a candle lover like me, you might be curious about how this wonderful invention came to be and how it evolved over time.
Scented candles have a long and rich history in the UK, dating back to the ancient times when people used natural materials like beeswax, tallow, spices and herbs to create aromatic lights. The earliest evidence of scented candles in the UK comes from the Roman period, when they were used for religious ceremonies and rituals. The Romans also introduced the use of moulds to shape the candles and added colours and fragrances to them.
Scented candles in the middle ages
Scented candles were mainly used by the upper classes and the clergy, who could afford to buy expensive beeswax and essential oils. They were not only a source of light and warmth, but also a way of creating a pleasant atmosphere and masking unpleasant odours. Some of the most popular scents were rose, lavender, clove, cinnamon, and frankincense. These aromas were believed to have various benefits, such as soothing the nerves, stimulating the mind, or warding off evil spirits.
Scented candles were also used for religious purposes, such as during prayers, rituals, and ceremonies. They were often decorated with symbols or inscriptions that reflected the intention or the occasion. For example, a candle with a cross or a saint's name could be used for protection or healing, while a candle with a heart or a flower could be used for love or friendship.
Scented candles were not only functional, but also beautiful and artistic. They were often carved, painted, or moulded into different shapes and sizes. Some of them were even made to look like fruits, animals, or people. They were displayed in candle holders made of metal, wood, glass, or ceramic. Some of the most elaborate candle holders were shaped like chandeliers, candelabras, or lanterns.
Impact of the industrial resolution on scented candles
The Industrial Revolution brought many changes to the candle industry, as new materials and technologies made it possible to produce cheaper and more efficient candles. Paraffin wax was invented in the 19th century and soon replaced beeswax and tallow as the main ingredient for candles. Paraffin wax was easy to mass produce, had a longer burning time and a brighter flame. However, paraffin wax also had some drawbacks, such as being derived from petroleum, emitting soot and smoke and having a low scent throw.
In the 20th century, scented candles became more accessible and affordable to the general public, thanks to the development of synthetic fragrances and additives that enhanced the scent and appearance of the candles. Scented candles also became more diverse and creative, as new shapes, sizes, colours and designs were introduced. Some of the most popular scents in this period were floral, fruity, spicy and woody.
Modern scented candles in the UK
In recent years, there has been a growing demand for natural and eco-friendly scented candles, as people become more aware of the environmental and health impacts of synthetic materials and chemicals. This is where vegan soy wax candles come in. Vegan soy wax candles are made from soybean oil, which is a renewable and biodegradable resource. Soy wax candles have many advantages over paraffin wax candles, such as being cleaner burning, longer lasting and having a better scent throw.
As a vegan soy wax scented candle seller, I am passionate about high-quality and cruelty-free products that are good for you and the planet. The candles we sell are made from vegan and cruelty free natural ingredients like soy wax. Each scented candle is also hand-poured with love and care in small batches to ensure consistency and quality. Our candles come in a variety of scents that are inspired by nature, such as lavender, english pear, vanilla and tonka bean.