How different candle scents affect your mood

There are few things more relaxing than soaking in a bubble bath with your favourite scented candle lit and soothing music playing in the background.

Lighting a candle not only creates a tranquil ambiance with its soft glow but different candle scents can also affect your mood, promote relaxation or trigger positive memories by influencing brain chemistry to release mood-boosting dopamine and serotonin.

Here’s how it works and which candle scent to light to benefit from its properties.

According to research, here’s how it works

Direct pathway to the brain

Scent molecules travel to the brain’s olfactory bulb. This then sends signals to the amygdala (emotion) and hippocampus (memory).

Bypasses the thalamus

This direct route bypasses the brain’s usual filtering system (the thalamus). This allows scents to trigger physiological and emotional responses faster.

Hormonal responses

Scent can impact the release of neurotransmitters and trigger hormonal responses – this affects immune function, blood pressure and your emotional state.

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The benefits of the different candle scents:

For cosiness and comfort

Scents such as vanilla, cinnamon and sandalwood evoke feelings of comfort, warmth and nostalgia.

For stress relief and relaxation

Vanilla, lavender and chamomile are well known for their calming properties. They promote relaxation, reduce stress and anxiety, and calms the nervous system, which can result in a deeper and more restful sleep.