The History of Scented Candles: From Ancient Times to Modern Homes

Scented candles have become incredibly popular in modern homes, creating memorable atmospheres and a fresh home so easily. But the beginnings of scented candles go back thousands of years, being used in rituals, for necessity and modernisation. Here's a small look at the evolution of scented candles—from the earliest traditions to cosy living rooms.

Ancient Origins: Light, Ritual, and Early Fragrance

Candles have been used for over 5,000 years, mainly as a light source and for spiritual ceremonies. The earliest known candles were created by the ancient Egyptians, using rushlights—torches made by soaking the core of reeds in melted animal fat.

Though these early lights didn't contain scent, fragrance was already an important part of ancient life. Egyptians used incense and scented oils in rituals and embalming and over time, it’s believed they evolved their lighting practices by adding aromatics.

The ancient Chinese and Japanese created candles made from beeswax and plant-based waxes, often with herbs and aromatic oils. In India, candles and lamps were created using ghee and infused with natural essences for spiritual use.

The Roman and Medieval Evolution

The Romans created the first dipped candles using tallow or beeswax. While primarily practical, these candles sometimes included herbs and spices for fragrance and to mask unpleasant smells.

In the Middle Ages, beeswax candles became more common in Europe, preferred for their clean burn and pleasant scent. Unfortunately, due to their high cost, they were largely reserved for churches and the wealthy.

Tallow candles—made from animal fat—remained more widely used, though their smell and smoky residue created a demand for more fragrant and pleasant alternatives.

The Advance of Scent in the 18th and 19th Centuries

By the 18th century, candle-making had become a skilled trade, and innovations in wax production improved candle quality and burn time.

Scented candles began gaining desirability in the 19th century, especially in France and England. Perfumers started adding essential oils to wax to make the simple candle a luxury item.

With the introduction of gas and electric, candles became less of a requirement but remained in demand for their ability to transform a space and make life more pleasant.

Modern Popularity: Wellness and Atmosphere

The 20th century saw a change in candle-making, especially with the introduction of paraffin wax and later, soy wax. These materials created industrial production, cleaner burning, and better scent throw.

Scented candles became mainstream in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, fuelled by the wellness movement, home décor, and the growing popularity of aromatherapy.

Today, scented candles come in a wonderful variety of fragrances—from classic florals to complex blends like “Pumpkin Spice” or “Highland Trail.” They are used to set moods, celebrate seasons and reduce stress.

What began as a practical necessity has inevitably evolved into a luxury. Whether flickering during a power outage or accompanying a relaxing bath, scented candles continue to be both useful and a simple way to make somewhere more pleasant.