The 7 Best Candle Scents To Set A Relaxing Mood And The 7 Scents To Avoid Indoors
Some days, a flicker of candlelight and a gentle fragrance are enough to hush the mind after hours of noise and to-do lists. Scented candles can be influencers of calm and weave great moods into any room. Yet, not every scent plays well within four walls. Several fragrances, despite their charm, carry an intensity that can unsettle the senses or crowd the indoor air. So, before buying a fragrant candle, it's important to know which aromas are known to nurture peace and which might stir up more than you bargained for. In this list, you'll find both types—the scents that invite deep breaths and restful evenings and those better left for other moments or open spaces. Let's start with the seven candle fragrances that will leave you relaxed.
Lavender
Lavender has eased minds for centuries. Greeks trusted it in their baths, and even royalty like Queen Elizabeth I demanded its fresh fragrance daily. Today, science confirms it lowers stress and deepens sleep. This calming scent can be found in multiple candles, inviting a return to simple relaxation.
Chamomile
In chamomile, there is apigenin, a sedative compound that can help you sleep. That's why chamomile tea is known to aid better rest. Ancient Egyptians also used chamomile in religious offerings, and even Roman soldiers used to carry chamomile balm to stay calm.
Sandalwood
Jasmine
Jasmine’s calming properties come from its ability to lower heart rate and ease anxiety. It’s favored in Middle Eastern perfumes and blooms exclusively at night. When inhaled, it even improves sleep more effectively than lavender. Jasmine tea complements its soothing, aromatic power.
Rose
Rose oil is rich in linalool and geraniol, both of which not only beat stress but also support calm moods. In clinical aromatherapy, it reduces anxiety effectively. Cleopatra famously used rose petals to seduce Mark Antony. This timeless scent still enhances skincare routines and indoor air.
Vanilla
Ylang Ylang
Cinnamon
Peppermint
Pine
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is widely used for its medicinal properties. Being rich in cineole, it works well as a decongestant but may trigger asthma attacks indoors. Excessive inhalation can irritate sensitive respiratory systems. Thanks to its oil's insect-repelling ability, it’s quite useful outdoors.
Patchouli
Citrus
Gardenia
Gardenias adorn floral decorations and corsages. In Hawaii, this flower is also used in making lei, a traditional garland worn on special occasions. But gardenia’s intense floral scent can overwhelm a closed room and feel cloying. High concentrations have been linked to headaches for those with sensitive noses.