Many candles available today are made from paraffin wax which is derived from petroleum. While global reserves of petroleum continue to dwindle, and paraffin prices increase, my love of candles has encouraged me to make my own from a renewable resource grown in the Midwest: soy wax.
Soy wax is a vegetable wax made from the oil of soybeans. They are grown and harvested right here in the States. The beans are cleaned, cracked, hulled, and rolled into flakes. The leftover husks from the soybeans are used primarily as animal feed. The oil from the flakes is extracted and then hydrogenated. Hydrogenation alters the melting point of the oil which allows it to remain solid at room temperature. The flakes look like a mixture between imitation snow and white parmesan shavings. When poured into a candle, the texture of the wax is creamy. Soy wax burns clean. Burning a soy wax candle creates 95% less soot than burning a paraffin wax candle and is therefore easier for people with breathing problems. Soy is bio-degradable and easy to clean up with soap and water.
photo: courtesy of USDA-ARS soy wax at room temperature
I offer the following scented candles:
- Silk Road Spice - earthy. Based on dragon's blood incense.
- Freesia - lovely light floral scent.. nice and fresh.
- Lemongrass Sage - fresh lemongrass scent.
- Himalyan Bamboo - smells like fresh canteloupe right out of the ground
- Eucalyptus Mint - freshens the room and clears out pet and smoke smells. Great for stuffy sinuses.
- Lavender - nice and soothing as lavender always is. Close to a French lavender.
My candles are poured into stylized keepsake glass containers which can mesh with just about any decor in your home. The small size is 4oz. The large size is 12 oz and comes with a lid.
The wicks do not smoke nor do the wicks contain lead. Be sure to keep the wicks trimmed to 1/8 inch BEFORE each burn. Keep out of reach from children and pets, and away from flammable objects. Keep away from drafts and never leave a burning candle unattended.
Sorry, due to the high cost of shipping, orders for candles are only accepted for South Florida residents. Please email diana@springtimehenna.com with your detailed requests.
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