In the realm of ambiance creation, few elements are as powerful as fragrance. Scent has the remarkable ability to evoke emotions, trigger memories and ultimately shape the atmosphere of a space. Among the various vehicles for these delightful scents, candles stand out for their practicality and beauty. But do scented candles really have the power to create ambiance? Let’s uncover the secrets of scent!
The Psychology Behind Scented Candles
- Aromatherapy basics
Aromatherapy is a type of therapy that uses aromatic oils and scents to improve health. Inhaling certain scents has been linked to improving mood, reducing stress and even promoting sleep. According to a study by New York University, participants experienced a 20% improvement in mood after participating in aromatherapy.Aromatherapy has received a lot of attention for regulating mood and enhancing emotional well-being：- The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.Article: “Aromatherapy: A Systematic Review”This review reviews multiple studies of aromatherapy and suggests potential benefits of aromatherapy for anxiety relief, stress reduction, and mood improvement.
- Article, “Aromatherapy as a Safe and Effective Treatment for the Management of Agitation in Severe Dementia: The Results of a Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial with Melissa” (“Aromatherapy as a Safe and Effective Treatment for the Management of Agitation in Severe Dementia: The Results of a Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial with Peppermint”)This study suggests that peppermint aromatherapy may have a positive effect on reducing anxiety and agitation in people with severe dementia.
- Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Article, “Effect of Inhalation of Aroma of Geranium Essence on Anxiety and Physiological Parameters during First Stage of Labor in Nulliparous Women: a Randomized Clinical Trial” (“Effect of Inhalation of Aroma of Geranium Essence on Anxiety and Physiological Parameters during First Stage of Labor in Nulliparous Women: a Randomized Clinical Trial”) This randomized clinical trial found that aromatherapy with geranium extract reduced anxiety levels in primiparous women during the first stage of labor.Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice.Article: “Effect of aromatherapy on patients with Alzheimer’s disease”.The study suggests that aromatherapy may play a positive role in alleviating dementia symptoms and improving quality of life in patients with Alzheimer’s disease.
- The Science of Scent
Our olfactory system is responsible for the sense of smell, and it has a direct connection to the limbic system – the emotional center of the brain. When we inhale a scent, it triggers emotional responses and memories. Research at ABC University has shown that the brain’s response to scent is the result of a complex neurochemical interaction that affects our emotional state.
Choosing the right scent
- Scent Families and Moods
Certain fragrance families are associated with specific moods. For example, citrus scents typically evoke feelings of freshness and energy. In an Insights survey, 75% of respondents associated citrus scents with these uplifting emotions. - Personal preference for scents
Our personal preferences for scents are deeply connected to our experiences and memories. Most aromatherapy users report that scents associated with positive memories greatly influence their mood.
Setting the Scene: Practical Tips
- Scented placement and timing
Strategically placing scented candles and considering the timing of their use can enhance their mood-enhancing effect. According to a study by Sofrika Consulting, 30% more people use calming scents at night. - Combine scents for effect
The art of combining scents is known as scent layering, which provides a more nuanced olfactory experience. 60% of consumers like to experiment with multiple layers of scent for a more tailored experience.
Share your personal experiences and favorite mood-altering scents in the comments below! For a chance to win a sample of our bespoke scent!
