Scented candles have been a part of human history for thousands of years, evolving from their early uses in religious rituals and medicinal practices to the modern, luxury home fragrance industry we know today. From ancient Egypt to the grand European apothecaries, the history of scented candles is rich with cultural significance, healing properties, and a deep connection to the natural world. In this post, we’ll trace the origins of scented candles, explore their historical uses, and highlight how ancient traditions continue to influence today’s candle-making practices, including Wax Apothecary's carefully crafted, plant-based offerings.
The Origins of Scented Candles: Ancient Egypt and Beyond
The first known use of scented candles dates back to ancient civilizations. In Egypt, as early as 3000 BCE, incense was burned in temples during religious ceremonies. While candles as we know them today weren’t yet in existence, the idea of burning fragrant substances was deeply ingrained in Egyptian rituals. Egyptians often burned resins from plants like frankincense and myrrh, both of which are still used in Wax Apothecary’s candles today for their calming, purifying properties.
The Egyptians believed that fragrances had divine qualities, using them not only for religious ceremonies but also in everyday life for personal care and wellness. The ancient Egyptians used essential oils, a precursor to modern aromatherapy, for healing and beauty routines. These early practices laid the foundation for the use of scents in candles, which would later spread across the ancient world.
Scented Candles in Ancient Rome and Greece: Apothecaries and Rituals
By the time of the Romans and Greeks, candles began to take on a more recognizable form. While the Romans used tallow (animal fat) to make early candles, it wasn’t until the Middle Ages in Europe that candle-making techniques became more sophisticated.
The Romans, like the Egyptians, incorporated aromatic substances into their daily lives, using scented oils and waxes in religious and social settings. It was common to burn candles during banquets, creating a pleasant environment while warding off evil spirits with aromatic smoke. The Greeks also used candles infused with scents in their temples and sacred rituals, blending frankincense, myrrh, and rose—all of which remain key ingredients in modern candles.
These practices set the stage for the evolution of the scented candle, which would later be intertwined with the apothecary tradition during the medieval and Renaissance periods in Europe.
Old-World Apothecary Traditions and the Rise of Scented Candles in Europe
As candle-making techniques advanced in the medieval period, so did the use of herbal scents in candles. European apothecaries, or early pharmacies, became centers for both medicinal remedies and scented products. Herbs, flowers, and resins were commonly used for their healing properties, and candles were no exception. Apothecaries infused candles with scents derived from plants like lavender, rosemary, and jasmine, believing that these aromas could promote healing, relaxation, and mental clarity.
Lavender, a common ingredient in Wax Apothecary’s collection, was historically used to soothe nerves and promote sleep. Similarly, rosemary was burned for its stimulating qualities, believed to enhance memory and mental focus. Jasmine, too, was regarded as a calming and mood-lifting scent. These plants and their therapeutic properties were often included in candles and used in personal care products sold by old-world apothecaries.
The Invention of the Modern Scented Candle
As candle-making progressed, the development of paraffin wax in the 19th century revolutionized the candle industry. This was the era when scented candles began to gain popularity in homes, moving away from religious and medicinal uses and into everyday life. The advent of essential oils also played a role in the rise of aromatherapy, further solidifying the connection between scents and wellness.
Today, candles have transcended their original purpose, becoming popular for their ability to create ambiance, enhance mood, and promote relaxation. However, the essence of their use remains rooted in the ancient apothecary tradition, which revered the therapeutic power of plants and natural ingredients.
Wax Apothecary’s Connection to Old-World Traditions
At Wax Apothecary, we honor these ancient traditions by offering natural, plant-based candles that incorporate the very same herbs, flowers, and essential oils used by ancient apothecaries. Our candles are handcrafted using only the finest non-toxic ingredients and eco-friendly materials, ensuring that each candle not only smells divine but also supports wellness and sustainability.
Some of our candles that carry forward the legacy of these old-world apothecary traditions include:
- French Lavender: Known for its calming properties, lavender has been used since Roman times to promote relaxation and aid sleep.
- Frankincense: Revered by the ancient Egyptians for its spiritual and purifying qualities, it continues to be a key ingredient in modern aromatherapy.
- White Sage: Used by Native American tribes in smudging ceremonies to cleanse spaces, this aromatic herb is perfect for purifying your environment.
Our candles are designed to bring the therapeutic benefits of these ancient aromas into your home, transforming your space into a sanctuary for the mind and body.
The Legacy of Scented Candles
From ancient Egypt to the European apothecaries, scented candles have always been more than just a decorative object—they have been used for healing, spiritual rituals, and creating a sense of well-being. The history of scented candles is deeply intertwined with the old-world apothecary traditions that recognized the power of plants and natural ingredients to enhance life.
At Wax Apothecary, we carry on this rich history by offering candles made from all-natural, plant-based ingredientsthat honor the same principles that guided ancient apothecaries. Our candles are not just about fragrance—they are about healing, wellness, and sustainability.
As you enjoy your next candle, remember that you are partaking in a tradition that dates back thousands of years, connecting you to the wisdom and healing power of nature.
Explore Wax Apothecary’s candle collections and discover the timeless benefits of aromatherapy.
to bring the ancient apothecary tradition into your modern home.
FAQs:
- When were scented candles invented? Scented candles can be traced back to ancient Egypt, with their modern incarnation emerging in the 19th century with the development of paraffin wax and essential oils.
- Are scented candles bad for you? When made with all-natural, plant-based ingredients, scented candles can enhance well-being and create a soothing, clean atmosphere. Always choose non-toxic, eco-friendly candles for the best experience.
- What are the benefits of scented candles? Scented candles promote relaxation, improve mood, enhance mental clarity, and even purify the air, depending on the essential oils used.