I’m always on the lookout for creative ways to utilize the bounty from my garden – whether it’s a thoughtful gift idea or a means to enhance my home’s ambiance. One of my favorite DIY projects is crafting scented candles using herbs from my garden. Over time, I’ve discovered which herbs produce the most alluring and natural aromas. While self-sufficiency often focuses on food production, I believe that creating practical items for daily life can be just as fulfilling.
Candles, for instance, serve as a reliable source of light during power outages, promote wellness through their soothing scents, or simply add a cozy touch to any room. What sets candles infused with herbs apart is the subtle release of oils from the plant’s essence as the wax heats up. This not only fills the air with a pleasant aroma but also offers potential health benefits. Additionally, using up extra herbs at the end of the growing season reduces waste and showcases your resourcefulness.
Candles make wonderful homemade gifts for loved ones or can be sold at farmer’s markets to generate income. In this article, I’ll share my favorite herbs for scented candles and provide tips on crafting jar or orange peel candles to get you started.
The Importance Of Scent
The sensory experience of scents is a crucial aspect of any candle, as they have the power to transform the ambiance of a room into something inviting and pleasant. Not only do they neutralize unpleasant odors, such as the pungent smell of wet dogs on a farm, but they also offer a range of emotional benefits.
For instance, the soothing aroma of lavender can provide a calming respite from the stresses of daily life, while invigorating scents like fresh coffee can jumpstart your morning and leave you feeling revitalized.
The Best Herbs for Scented Candles
Gardening enthusiasts are well aware that individual herbs boast unique aromas and therapeutic properties. To create a personalized candle experience, feel free to explore the characteristics of standalone herbs or carefully crafted blends to identify the scents and combinations that resonate with you most.
Rosemary
Rosemary, native to the Mediterranean region of Europe, is a sun-loving herb that thrives in well-draining sandy soil. While it’s not particularly fond of cold temperatures, it can flourish as a potted plant or in a greenhouse environment.
One of rosemary’s most notable characteristics is its invigorating aroma, which can instantly revitalize a space. To amplify the scent, simply crush the leaves before incorporating them into your desired application.
In addition to its pungent fragrance, rosemary also offers a visually appealing element when used in candle-making. To achieve this, harvest sprigs of rosemary that are at least six inches long and allow them to air-dry for two weeks or utilize a dehydrator for faster results. Once dry, attach the sprigs to the interior of the jar just below the wax line using a suitable adhesive. Finally, pour in your melted wax to create a unique and aromatic candle.
Thyme
Thyme is a low-maintenance herb that thrives in zones 4-9, tolerating partial shade and exceling in rock gardens due to its compact growth habit. Its pungent, herbaceous aroma has earned thyme the reputation as a cleansing herb, filling your space with a fresh, woody fragrance. To ensure optimal drying conditions, be sure to provide sufficient air circulation for your thyme, as it can quickly succumb to mold if not properly ventilated.
Lavender
Lavender thrives in sunny locations within zones 5-9, exceling in well-drained sandy soil. For those with thicker clay soils, consider incorporating sand or cultivating the herb in raised beds or pots for optimal growth.
Renowned for its calming effects, lavender has a reputation for alleviating anxiety, insomnia, headaches, and pain. The soothing ambiance it creates when lit as a candle after a long day is truly heavenly.
When crafting scented candles, don’t overlook the leaves – but also remember to utilize the flowers. By drying the blossoms before they open and then attaching them to the inside of the jar prior to pouring melted wax, you’ll create a truly unique and fragrant candle.
To properly harvest lavender, do so in the early morning hours and hang it upside down to dry for several weeks. Fresh leaves should be avoided when crafting candles, as they may mold if not dried sufficiently.
Chamomile
Chamomile, a calming herb, is multifaceted in its uses, extending beyond scented candles to include tea and medicinal applications as well. Its hardy nature allows it to thrive in zones 3-9, where it can bask in full sun or partial shade. When crafting soothing candles, chamomile’s subtle aroma makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a gentle scent.
To further enhance its calming properties, consider blending it with lavender, apple, or sage, allowing the unique characteristics of each herb to complement one another and create a truly peaceful atmosphere.
Lilac
While technically not an herb, lilac’s enchanting aroma makes it a worthy inclusion in this discussion. In zones 3-7, lilac thrives in full sun, emitting a potent, sweet fragrance that instantly evokes the essence of spring. While artificially scented lilac candles are readily available, those infused with the real thing offer an unparalleled sensory experience. For a more nuanced scent, consider blending lilac with orange or rosemary to temper its sweetness.
Cornflower
With their distinctive peppery and earthy aroma, cornflowers are an unexpected yet charming choice for scented candles. As an annual herb that thrives in well-lit conditions, they can be cultivated in almost any zone, making them a versatile option for gardeners of all levels. What’s more, the delicate beauty of cornflowers makes them a visually appealing addition to candles, whether used as a decorative accent or incorporated into the candle’s outer design.
Licorice
Licorice, often overshadowed by more popular scented herbs, is a hidden gem in the world of fragrant candles. Its unique aroma deserves to be celebrated, and its versatility makes it a great addition to any candle-making enthusiast’s collection. Growing in zones 6-11, licorice thrives in full sun or partial shade, making it accessible for those who want to grow their own herbs.
The root itself has a subtle sweetness that’s not overpowering, allowing you to create complex blends without being overwhipped. I personally enjoy pairing licorice with cardamom and anise to craft a scent that’s almost edible – just be sure to use high-quality ingredients and follow proper safety guidelines when crafting your own scented candles.
Anise
Anise’s hardiness allows it to thrive in zones 4-9, where its delicate foliage adds a touch of elegance to any garden bed. As harvest time approaches, the dried seeds of this herb become a prized resource for crafty uses. One popular method is to grind the seeds into a fine powder and incorporate them into homemade candle wax, infusing the finished product with a warm, licorice-inspired aroma.
Sage
Sage is a sun-loving herb that thrives in USDA zones 5-9, boasting the ability to withstand dry conditions without requiring excessive care. In the realm of crafting, sage leaves are particularly well-suited for scented candles, as their dried forms can be used as decorative elements within the wax, while crushed leaves release a delightful aroma.
Furthermore, sage’s versatile nature allows it to harmonize with a variety of other herbs and plants, such as sea salt, citrus, teakwood, eucalyptus, lavender, and cedar, creating unique blends that are equally pleasing to the senses.
Lemongrass
For those residing in sunnier climates, cultivating lemongrass is a breeze. Its delicate citrus aroma makes it an ideal addition to homemade candles, particularly when blended with the richness of coconut oil. The resulting scent evokes the laid-back ambiance of a tropical getaway.
Use Your Imagination
While traditional scented candle ingredients like essential oils may be the first thing to come to mind, there’s a world of possibilities when it comes to using herbs and other plant-based materials to create unique fragrances. Consider pairing bright citrus notes from lemons, oranges, or limes with sweet basil or minty apple for a refreshing blend. For a more exotic flair, try combining pineapple sage with the subtle tang of tomato leaves or the earthy undertones of witch hazel.
The possibilities are endless and limited only by your imagination. To take it to the next level, incorporate other plant-based ingredients like rose petals, eucalyptus, or spices like cinnamon, cardamom, cedar, and pine to create complex scents that evoke the tropics, winter wonderlands, or even classic holiday cheer.
Best Wax
When it comes to candle making, selecting the right wax is crucial. For a natural and chemical-free burning experience, opt for waxes like soy wax or beeswax. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even produce your own beeswax if you have access to hives. On the other hand, paraffin wax may seem appealing due to its affordability, but it’s essential to consider the potential health implications.
As a by-product of the oil industry, paraffin wax has been linked to the release of harmful substances such as toluene and benzene, which have been known to contribute to respiratory issues when inhaled.
Best Wicks
Initially, I experimented with various yarns and strings as candlewick, but soon realized that not just any material would suffice. The wick plays a crucial role in ensuring a clean burn without producing smoke. As it turns out, there’s a wide range of wicks available, varying from single-strand to braided options, and while most are round, some square wicks are particularly well-suited for beeswax candles.
Furthermore, the size of your wick is vital when selecting a jar, and fortunately, numerous online resources exist to guide you in matching the ideal wick to the container.
DIY Mason Jar Candle
One of the most uncomplicated candles to craft is this rustic, country-style delight. Its charm lies in its ability to infuse herbs and spices with a warm, inviting aroma, perfect for gifting. The addition of a ribbon or bow around the jar adds a touch of vintage elegance. Furthermore, it’s an effortless way to incorporate your favorite herbs and spices, thanks to the wide mouth of the Mason jar.
Both half-pint and pint jelly sizes are ideal for candlemaking, as they’re heat-resistant and provide ample space for mixing and blending ingredients.
Steps for Making Jar Candles
To create a well-made candle, start by trimming the wick to a height of a few inches above the rim of the jar. Secure the tapered end of the wick using glue or adhesive tabs at the center bottom of the jar. Alternatively, tie the wick to a craft stick and place it over the jar, allowing the wick to hang down in the center. Next, add about two tablespoons of dried herb to the bottom of the jar. Weigh out the wax according to your recipe, using the flakes as a guide if needed.
Place the wax in a pouring container or top of a double boiler, ensuring it’s not submerged in water. For a pint-sized mason jar, approximately one pound of wax is required. In a separate saucepan or bottom of a double boiler, bring water to a simmer. Then, place your pouring container with the wax into the pot of warm water. Allow the wax to melt while stirring frequently to ensure even melting. If desired, use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature and aim for around 170°F.
Once melted, let the wax cool for about twenty minutes or until it reaches a temperature of around 140°F. At this stage, you can add essential oils, following the recommended ratio of about 1/4 teaspoon per pound of wax, and stir well. Pour the wax slowly and carefully into the jar, ensuring the wick remains in place. Allow the candle to settle for at least 24 hours before moving or using it. Finally, trim the wick to an inch from the wax.
If you plan to store your candle or give it as a gift, cover it with a lid to prevent scent evaporation.
Make an Orange Bowl Candle
Transforming an orange peel into a candle is a creative project that yields a one-of-a-kind candle with a subtle orange scent. By repurposing the peel, you’re not only crafting a unique vessel but also infusing your herbal wax filler with the citrusy aroma of the orange. To create this eco-friendly candle, start by cutting off the top third of the orange, taking care not to puncture the rind. Scrape out the pulp and skin using a knife, being mindful not to create any holes in the process.
Place the fruit rinds on a baking dish, and consider adding some dried peeling from your orange to the candle for extra fragrance. Next, measure your wick according to the guidelines above, then follow steps 5-7 from the making jar candles tutorial to melt the wax. Once the wax has melted, add your dried herbs and pour the liquid slowly into the rind, allowing everything to cool before use. As these candles are perishable, be sure to enjoy them within a few days of creation.
Take Away
Transforming ordinary candles into extraordinary creations is a delightful DIY endeavor that can be elevated by incorporating herbs from your very own garden. Whether you’re crafting gifts for loved ones or seeking to infuse your home with a unique ambiance, cultivating the perfect blend of herbs for scented candles will set the stage for a truly special project.
