Violet scented candles can evoke feelings of tranquility and relaxation. The fragrance is light, floral, and slightly sweet. For many, violet has a nostalgic scent that reminds them of childhood. In this article, we will explore the origins of the violet flower, the key scent compounds that give violets their distinctive aroma, and the therapeutic benefits associated with violet scented candles.
The Violet Flower
Violets are a genus of flowering plants in the Violaceae family. There are over 500 species of violets, including both perennials and annuals. Some common varieties used in perfumery include Viola odorata, Viola tricolor, and Viola arvensis. Violets are native to Europe, Asia, and some parts of Africa. They can grow wild in wooded areas and meadows. Violet plants produce small, five-petaled flowers in shades of blue, purple, yellow, and white. The flowers have a short blooming period, usually early spring.
All violet species contain glycosides called anthocyanidins that give the blossoms their characteristic color. Blue violets contain the glycoside violanin, while yellow and white violets contain rutin and kaempferol. In addition to pigments, violets contain a unique scent compound called ionone. This is what gives violets their sweet, floral fragrance that is both delicate and distinctive.
Violet Scent Compounds
The predominant scent compound found in violets is a molecule called ionone. Ionones are cyclic terpenes that consist of a six-membered ring structure. There are several ionone variants, including alpha-ionone, beta-ionone, and gamma-ionone. Of these, beta-ionone is the major aroma compound of violets. It has a smooth, floral, slightly woody odor. The ionones found in violet flowers are derived from carotenoids that are broken down during the plant’s pigment biosynthesis.
In addition to ionones, violets contain other aromatic molecules like linalool, limonene, eugenol, and caryophyllene. But it is the unique presence of ionones alongside these other fragrance notes that gives violets their definitive, soft floral signature. When used in perfumes or scented candles, violet fragrances are usually not single molecules, but rather skillfully composed blends that capture the essence of the living flower.
Therapeutic Benefits
Beyond simply smelling beautiful, violet flowers and their scent are believed to have some therapeutic properties. Here are some of the benefits associated with violets:
| Potential Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Relaxation | The light, airy scent of violet can induce feelings of calmness and tranquility. The aroma is soothing without being overpowering. |
| Sleep Aid | Some studies have found violet’s delicate fragrance helps people fall asleep more quickly and get better quality rest. |
| Mood Enhancement | Violet is thought to reduce anxiety, depression, and irritability while boosting mood. |
| Skin Health | Violets contain salicylic acid which helps exfoliate skin and remove impurities. |
While more research is needed, these promising benefits lend credence to the long history of violets used for wellness and cosmetic purposes. Burning a violet scented candle can be a simple way to experience the potential perks of this dainty flower.
History of Violet Fragrances
Violets have a rich history of use in perfumery going back centuries:
– Ancient Egyptians wore violet scented oils and decorated with the flowers.
– In Ancient Greece and Rome, violets were associated with Aphrodite/Venus as symbols of love.
– During the Victorian era, giving violets was a popular romantic gesture. Women wore violet perfume and decorated with the blooms.
– French perfumers perfected techniques for extracting violet essences to use in fragrances in the late 1800s. Violet fragrances remain associated with French sophistication.
– Today, violet notes continue to be used in floral and aromatic perfumes, soaps, cosmetics, and scented candles.
Violet’s place in the fragrance world has endured over time. The flower represents femininity, youth, innocence, and nostalgia across cultures.
Types of Violet Scented Candles
Violet scented candles come in different forms, blending notes of violet with other fragrances:
– **Single note violet candles** – These showcase the aroma of violet flowers alone. They have a straightforward, clean floral scent.
– **Violet and vanilla** – Combining sweet vanilla with violet creates a fragrance that is incredibly soothing. The vanilla mellows out the sharper green facets of violet.
– **Violet and jasmine** – Jasmine’s rich, heady aroma pairs gorgeously with soft violet notes. The blend has an exotic perfume quality.
– **Violet and lavender** – Lavender’s herbaceousness works nicely with the delicate powdery violet undertones. This is a relaxing candle scent.
– **Violet and sage** – Earthy sage brings out the subtle woody facets in violet. This blend has an aromatic, botanical aroma.
The possibilities are really endless. Violet can be mixed with citrus, fruits, spices, herbs, and other florals for unique scent compositions.
Making Your Own Violet Scented Candle
Looking to make your own violet candle? Here are some easy steps to follow:
Ingredients:
– Wax – Use beeswax, soy wax, or another candlemaking wax
– Violet fragrance oil
– Wick
– Candle vessel/container
– Double boiler for melting wax
Steps:
1. Prepare wick by cutting to proper height and attaching to bottom of container.
2. Melt wax in double boiler until completely liquid.
3. Remove melted wax from heat. Add a few drops of violet fragrance, about 1⁄2 tsp per pound of wax. Stir to incorporate scent.
4. Carefully pour wax into container holding wick. Leave room at top for pooling.
5. Allow candle to fully harden undisturbed. Trim wick to 1⁄4 inch before lighting.
Making your own allows you to control the violet scent strength. Customize it to your personal preference!
Conclusion
With its delicate, floral aroma and soothing qualities, it’s easy to see why violet has long been a staple scent in fragrances. If you love the romantic, whimsical essence of violets, a scented candle is a great way to infuse any space with this timeless fragrance. Experiment with different violet blends to find your perfect match. Then relax and enjoy the sweet serenity of violets.
