Lighting

Before electricity, candles were mostly used for lighting.  Today they are used for their light and beauty.  They freshen the air; they create a special mood, their light means guidance and purity.  Candles are special, magic and fascinating.  Some might say that candles provide natural light because they burn - and fire is a natural element.  Others will say that candles provide natural light with artificial means.  No matter how we look at it, candles do emanate the most beautiful light.  

Once upon a time candles were used for general lighting purposes.  Today they are used for interior decorations.  Candlelight still stands for romance, sensuality and beauty.  And the best part is that this generally inexpensive luxury evolves each day.  Candle manufacturers understand that the purpose of candles goes beyond lighting and they create candles with the most mesmerizing flavors: vanilla, chocolate, lily, orange, cinnamon and so on - thousands of flavors to satisfy any taste.  

From all the ancient symbols, the human race still holds dear, the candle is probably the most popular and one that will never cease to exist.  In many cultures, the light of a candle has a purifying role.  Smokers light up candles to neutralize the bad scents of burned tobacco and nicotine.  Lovers use candles to create a romantic atmosphere and many people use candles in the bathroom, while the bath, to enhance the mood of the room with a positive energy.  Candles are also used in aromatherapy - either in the flavored form or in a non-scented form (in aromatherapy lamps) and meditation.  And you certainly know how popular candles are in churches and for other religious purposes.  

Lighting with candles becomes more and more popular not only due to the large selection of flagrances, but to the variety of shapes, sizes and colors as well.  The materials vary as well: was, paraffin, soy to name just a few.  

Soy candles are the healthiest of all.  They are made of a mixture of hydrogenated soybean oils and the advantage is that they burn clean and they are nontoxic, unlike traditional paraffin candles. 

Chemicals found in paraffin are toxic, carcinogenic and neuro-toxic.  They might cause breathing problems, heart and circulatory conditions and might even damage the nervous system.  That means, if you like candles choose the ones that least endanger your health.  Any candle that generates a black smoke is a toxic candle. 

It's true that soy candles are a bit more expensive, but they are worth the price when health and environmental issues are considered.  Besides soy candles burn longer, are cooler (they don't generate as much heat as normal candles), distribute better flagrances and they are water soluble - meaning that their wax will not stain your fabrics or furniture.  Compared to paraffin candles they produce up to 90% less soot.  Even more: they are the less likely to produce allergic reactions.  Overall a healthy choice!  

In conclusion, if you consider candles for lighting or decorative purposes, you should also be aware of their impact on the environment and on your health.