essential oils for fragrance

HOW TO CREATE TALLOW CANDELS WITH ESSENTIAL OILS

Tallow, a natural byproduct of rendering animal fat, offers a clean, long-lasting burn and a unique aesthetic. By infusing these candles with your favorite essential oils, you can create personalized fragrances that promote relaxation, focus, or simply enhance your ambiance. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the simple steps of creating your own tallow candles, from selecting the right materials to blending essential oils.

How to make tallow candles with essential oils

Candles have a unique way of transforming any space into a relaxing haven. Whether I’m preparing a meal, working at my computer, or indulging in a spa day at home, I love lighting a candle to set the mood.

There’s just something about the calming atmosphere candles create – they’re a staple in my home. And even during the seasons when I don’t burn them as often, they’re always handy in case of a power outage.

Living naturally often means letting go of your favorite commercial candles. But with this easy tallow candle recipe with essential oils, you can make your own toxin-free candles at home! It’s simpler than you think.

Ready to create your own chemical-free candles? Keep reading to learn how…

What are tallow candles?

Tallow candles are made from tallow, an age-old ingredient used in candle-making for thousands of years. Unlike modern commercial candles, which can release harmful toxins into the air, tallow candles provide a healthier, natural alternative.

Many people aren’t aware, but commercial candles often contain toxic chemicals that, when burned, release harmful fumes into the air, affecting the health of you and your family (source). To maintain a chemical-free home, I choose to use only pure, high-quality candles made from tallow—one of my favorite ingredients.

Tips in making tallow candles with essential oils

Making candles doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With this simple recipe, you can easily create dozens of tallow candles in just a few minutes.

Here are some helpful tips for making the best tallow candles:

  • Scenting your candles: Adding fragrance is totally up to you. If you’re making candles purely for decoration or light, you may want to skip fragrances altogether. If you’d like to add a scent, be sure to use only pure, natural essential oils. I recommend essential oils from trusted brands like Plant Therapy for the best quality.
  • Lubricating your molds: Before pouring in the tallow, remember to lubricate the candle molds with an oil such as coconut or olive oil. This ensures the candles come out smoothly once they’re set.
  • Choosing the right wick: It’s important to choose the right wick for your candles. Look for organic cotton wicks that are coated with beeswax, if possible. Some commercial wicks contain chemicals, so be mindful of what you use. My personal favorite are beeswax-coated organic cotton wicks.
  • Extra candles for gifting: I always make a few extra candles to have on hand as last-minute gifts. They’re perfect for hostess gifts or adding to a holiday gift basket.

Now that you’ve got my top tips, keep reading for step-by-step instructions to make your own tallow candles!

How to make tallow candles with essential oils

Making tallow candles with essential oils is one of my favorite activities. Not only do they help create a peaceful environment, but making them is also a fun and easy craft that you can complete in just an afternoon. Here’s how you can make your own:

INGREDIENTS:

  • Grass-fed beef tallow (from leaf fat; soft tallow from trim fat won’t be hard enough)
  • Essential oils (60 drops per cup of tallow)
  • Coconut oil or olive oil (to help with pouring consistency)
  • Wicks (cotton wicks are a great choice)
  • Glass jar or candle mold (for shaping your candles)

GLASS JAR CANDLE INSTRUCTIONS:

  • Melt the tallow: Gently heat the pure tallow in a saucepan until it turns into a liquid. Be sure to do this on low heat to avoid burning it.
  • Cool the tallow: Allow the melted tallow to cool down a bit, but don’t let it solidify yet.
  • Add essential oils: Once the tallow has cooled slightly, add 60 drops of essential oils per cup of tallow. Stir well to ensure the oils are fully mixed in.
  • Prepare the wick: Secure the wick by placing a clothespin on the top of the glass jar, letting the wick hang down into the center of the jar.
  • Pour the tallow mixture: Carefully pour the tallow mixture into the glass jar, making sure not to disturb the wick. Leave some space at the top of the jar.
  • Let it cool: Allow the candle to set and cool at room temperature for several hours or overnight.
  • Trim the wick: Once the candle has fully solidified, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch above the surface of the tallow.
  • Light and enjoy: Your candle is now ready to be lit and enjoyed!

PILLAR JAR CANDLE INSTRUCTIONS:

  • Lubricate the mold: Use coconut or olive oil to lightly lubricate the inside of the candle mold. This will help you remove the candle once it’s solidified.
  • Thread the wick: String the wick through the center of the candle mold, leaving extra length to trim later. Use a clothespin to hold the wick upright at the top of the mold.
  • Leave space at the tip: When pouring the tallow, leave some space at the tip of the mold to allow room for any expansion.
  • Pour the tallow mixture: Pour the liquid tallow into the mold, filling it up to your desired height.
  • Let it set: Allow the candle to cool and solidify at room temperature.
  • Remove the candle: Once the candle is completely solid, carefully remove it from the mold. Trim the wick to your desired length.
  • Light and enjoy: Your pillar candle is ready to be lit and will provide a cozy, relaxing atmosphere.

What supplies do you need for candle making?

Surprisingly enough, making your own tallow candles doesn’t require a lot of equipment. When using tallow, you can easily melt it on your stove and start crafting right away. Here’s a quick list of the supplies you’ll need:

SUPPLIES FOR TALLOW CANDLES

  • Glass jars (Make sure they are thick, like mason jars, to prevent the glass from shattering due to heat)
  • Natural wick (Cotton or beeswax-coated wicks are great)
  • Essential oils (Choose your favorite natural oils to scent the candle)
  • Clothespin (To hold the wick in place while the candle sets)
  • Candle mold (If you’re making pillar candles, here’s a great option for that)

MELTING THE TALLOW

The most time-consuming part of the entire candle-making process is melting the tallow. You’ll want to heat it gently on the stove over low heat, as it can take some time to fully melt, depending on the amount you’re using. But don’t worry — once it’s melted, the rest of the process is quick and easy!

Keep reading to learn more about the step-by-step process for melting tallow and making your own candles!

How long does it take to melt tallow?

Tallow is the hard fat found around the organs of animals, and it has countless uses, making it one of my favorite ingredients for a natural living lifestyle. Beyond making candles, you can use tallow in cooking, such as for frying or baking pie crusts, or even for crafting projects like the homemade candles featured in this article.

If you want to make your own tallow, it’s easy to render it using just a crock pot! Rendering tallow at home typically takes several hours, depending on how much you’re melting. For example, it takes about 5-6 hours to fully melt around 4 quarts of tallow. This method is simple and efficient, and it ensures you’re getting pure, high-quality tallow for all your DIY projects.

How much tallow should you melt?

When it comes to rendering tallow, I like to melt as much as I can — or as much as my crock pot will hold. That way, I can make my candles in batches and have some extra tallow for other projects or even gifts.

Tallow is incredibly versatile, and there are so many ways to use it beyond making candles. Here are a few ideas for utilizing your tallow:

  • Make skincare products: Tallow is fantastic for creating nourishing lotions, balms, and soaps. (Check out this complete guide to tallow skincare for more details.)
  • Season your cast iron skillets: Use tallow to season your cast iron cookware, giving it a non-stick surface and helping it last longer.
  • Cook with it: Tallow has a high smoke point, making it great for frying, sautéing, or baking.
  • Condition leather: Tallow works wonders as a leather conditioner, keeping your leather goods supple and protected.

Honestly, if I had to choose one thing to take with me to a deserted island, tallow would definitely be on the list. It’s just that useful!

What are the best essential oils to add in a tallow candle?

One of the things I truly love about candles is how the right scent can completely transform the atmosphere of a room. Here are a few of my favorite scents for my homemade candles:

  • Lavender: A calming and soothing fragrance, perfect for relaxation.
  • Chamomile: A gentle, floral aroma that creates a peaceful, comforting environment.
  • Frankincense: A rich, resinous scent that adds depth and warmth, ideal for meditation or grounding.
  • Vetiver: Earthy and grounding, this scent is great for creating a serene and tranquil space.
  • Tranquil Synergy: A calming blend of essential oils that promotes relaxation and peace.
  • Relax Synergy: A comforting mix that soothes the mind and body, perfect for unwinding.

It’s also crucial to highlight the importance of using pure essential oils. Personally, I only use Plant Therapy essential oils in my home. They are known for their high-quality oils, sourced from the best plants. When it comes to candles, you want to ensure you’re using oils that are free from toxic chemicals, as many commercial oils can contain harmful substances. By choosing pure oils, you’ll get the best scent possible and avoid introducing any harmful chemicals into your home. This will not only improve the scent of your candles but also make your environment healthier and safer.

How long do tallow candles last?

The longevity of your homemade tallow candles depends on factors like the amount of tallow used, the wick type, and the candle size. To ensure your candles last as long as possible, here are a few tips:

  • Candle Size: Choose a larger container for your candles to increase their burn time. A bigger candle will take longer to fully melt, meaning it will last for several uses.
  • Wick Type: Opt for the right wick for your candle’s size. A wick that’s too small may burn too quickly, while a wick that’s too large may cause the candle to burn too fast and unevenly. Proper wick selection ensures an even, long-lasting burn.

By making sure your candle is sized appropriately and using the right wick, you can enjoy your homemade tallow candles for many months to come.

How to store tallow candles properly?

To ensure your tallow candles last as long as possible, store them in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight. A basement is an ideal location due to its consistent, cool temperature. If you don’t have a basement, a low shelf in your closet works well too.

Proper storage will help preserve the quality of the tallow and the essential oils, allowing your candles to last for several years. Just make sure they are kept in a stable, cool environment to prevent any melting or degradation over time.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, making your own tallow candles with essential oils is a rewarding and eco-friendly way to enjoy a natural, toxin-free alternative to commercial candles. Not only do they provide a clean, long-lasting burn, but you can also customize the scent to suit your mood or needs. Whether you’re looking to add a relaxing fragrance to your home, create a unique gift, or have a backup for power outages, homemade tallow candles are an excellent addition to your home. With just a few simple ingredients and some creativity, you can enjoy a sustainable, personal touch to your candle collection.

15 TOP ESSENTIAL OIL BRANDS OF 2024

Essential oils have exploded in popularity in recent years, offering natural ways to promote relaxation, improve mood, and enhance your well-being. But with so many brands on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. This guide explores the top 15 essential oil brands of 2024, helping you find high-quality, effective products to experience the true potential of aromatherapy. We’ll consider factors like purity, sourcing, variety, and brand values to help you find the perfect fit for your needs. So, get ready to embark on a journey of aromatic discovery!

WHAT CRITERIA ARE USED TO DETERMINE THE POPULARITY OF ESSENTIAL OIL BRANDS?

Several key criteria come into play when determining the popularity of essential oil brands. Here’s a breakdown of the most important factors:

Quality and Purity: This reigns supreme. Reputable brands prioritize high-quality essential oils, free from adulterants, fillers, or harmful synthetics. They ensure their oils are obtained through careful sourcing and meticulous distillation processes.

Transparency and Sourcing: Popular brands are transparent about their sourcing practices. They often disclose the origin of their plants, ensuring ethical and sustainable harvesting. This resonates with consumers who value eco-friendly practices and fair trade principles.

Accessibility and Availability: Top brands make their products accessible to a wider audience. This might involve having a strong online presence, partnerships with reputable retailers, or offering a variety of purchase options, including single oils and pre-made blends.

Reputation and Brand Values: Popularity is often built on a foundation of trust and positive brand image. Popular brands cultivate a reputation for excellence through consistent quality, positive customer experiences, and clear communication of their values. They might emphasize organic practices, aromatherapy education, or giving back to communities.

LIST OF TOP 15 BRANDS OF ESSENTIAL OILS

NOW ESSENTIAL OILS

NOW Essential Oils is a strong contender in the essential oil market, ticking many of the boxes for popularity. They prioritize quality, offering a wide range of 100% pure, undiluted essential oils obtained through methods like steam distillation. NOW is transparent about their sourcing and highlights their commitment to ethical and sustainable practices. The brand boasts a vast selection, catering to various needs and preferences. With their accessible online presence and readily available products in stores, NOW makes it easy for consumers to experience aromatherapy. Finally, NOW has cultivated a positive reputation for quality and value, making them a popular choice for those seeking effective and affordable essential oils.

EDENS’ GARDEN

Edens Garden stands out as a consumer-friendly brand in the essential oil world. They champion affordability without sacrificing quality, ensuring their 100% pure therapeutic-grade oils are accessible to a wider audience. Edens Garden prioritizes rigorous third-party GC/MS testing to guarantee the purity and safety of each oil. They stand out for their commitment to ethical sourcing and sustainability practices. Unlike some multi-level marketing (MLM) companies, Edens Garden offers their products directly to consumers, eliminating markups and keeping costs reasonable. They boast a diverse selection of single oils and expertly formulated blends, along with diffusers and other aromatherapy accessories. Edens Garden’s focus on quality, affordability, and education makes them a popular choice for beginners and experienced essential oil users alike.

AURA CACIA

Aura Cacia occupies a solid position in the essential oil market, catering to those seeking good value and decent quality. They offer a broad range of essential oils and pre-made blends, including popular options like lavender, peppermint, and citrus varieties. Aura Cacia emphasizes affordability, making them a good choice for those new to aromatherapy or looking to experiment with different scents. While they might not offer the same level of meticulous sourcing or in-depth educational resources as some higher-rated brands, Aura Cacia provides a reliable and accessible entry point into the world of essential oils. Their user-friendly blends can be a good option for those seeking specific aromatherapy benefits without the need for extensive research.

REVIVE ESSENTIAL OILS

Revive Essential Oils positions itself as a brand focused on offering effective and potent essential oil solutions. They highlight the therapeutic benefits of their products, promoting them for uses like boosting immunity, reducing stress, and improving sleep. Revive emphasizes the purity of their oils, claiming to use 100% pure therapeutic-grade essential oils and plant extracts. While independent verification of these claims might be beneficial, Revive focuses on creating user-friendly products like roll-ons and blends that cater to specific needs. Their subscription options offer a convenient way to stock up on favorites, and their satisfaction guarantee demonstrates confidence in product quality. Whether Revive lives up to its claims of high potency depends on user experience and independent testing results, but they cater to those seeking convenient and results-oriented essential oil solutions.

PURA D’OR

PURA D’OR carves a niche in the essential oil market by prioritizing quality, ethics, and variety. They’re known for offering a diverse selection of 100% pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils and pre-made blends. PURA D’OR emphasizes quality control through meticulous sourcing and distillation, ensuring their oils are free from adulterants. They also prioritize transparency, working with certified organic farms and highlighting sustainable harvesting practices. This commitment to ethical sourcing resonates with eco-conscious consumers. PURA D’OR’s extensive range caters to various needs, from popular picks like lavender and peppermint to more unique botanicals. They complement their selection with pre-made blends designed for specific purposes like relaxation or sleep. Finally, PURA D’OR’s reputation for quality, sustainability, and fair trade practices aligns with the values of many consumers seeking responsible brands. This combination of high-quality products, ethical sourcing, and a diverse range makes PURA D’OR a popular choice in the essential oil market.

AROMATHERAPY ASSOCIATES

Aromatherapy Associates is renowned for its expertise in harnessing the natural healing powers of essential oils to enhance physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Founded on the principles of aromatherapy, the brand offers a wide range of luxurious products designed to address various concerns, from relaxation and stress relief to revitalization and skin rejuvenation. Each product is carefully formulated with blends of pure essential oils, selected for their therapeutic properties and aromatic qualities. Aromatherapy Associates is dedicated to promoting holistic health and beauty through the transformative effects of aromatherapy, providing effective solutions that nurture both body and mind.

MOUNTAIN ROSE HERBS

Mountain Rose Herbs stands out for its commitment to organic, ethically sourced, and meticulously handled botanical products. Founded in 1987, they’ve grown into a trusted supplier for those seeking high-quality herbs, spices, teas, and essential oils. Mountain Rose Herbs prioritizes organic certification and sustainable sourcing practices. They ensure their essential oils are free from harmful chemicals, pesticides, and residues, appealing to health-conscious consumers. They offer a vast selection of essential oils, encompassing popular choices like lavender and tea tree alongside more unique botanicals. This caters to a diverse range of needs and preferences, allowing users to explore the world of aromatherapy.

GARDEN OF LIFE

Garden of Life is a company known for its focus on organic and plant-based nutrition products. They offer a wide range of supplements that are designed to support various aspects of health, such as vitamins, probiotics, protein powders, and more. Their products are made from natural, non-GMO ingredients, which are carefully sourced and rigorously tested for purity and potency. Garden of Life emphasizes transparency in their manufacturing process, ensuring that consumers can trust the quality and integrity of what they’re putting into their bodies. Overall, Garden of Life strives to promote health and wellness through their commitment to organic nutrition and sustainable practices.

YOUNG LIVING

Young Living is a company known for its focus on essential oils and wellness products. They offer a wide range of essential oils made from natural botanicals, each carefully distilled to preserve its therapeutic properties. Young Living promotes the use of essential oils for various purposes, including relaxation, skincare, and home cleaning. In addition to oils, they provide personal care products, nutritional supplements, and household cleaners, all crafted with natural ingredients. The company emphasizes purity and quality, using rigorous testing methods to ensure their products meet high standards. Young Living aims to empower individuals to live healthier lives through the benefits of essential oils and natural wellness solutions.

NEOM

NEOM Organics is a well-known brand specializing in natural products that promote well-being and relaxation. They offer a range of luxurious home fragrances, skincare, and bath products, all crafted with a focus on natural ingredients and essential oils. NEOM’s products are designed to enhance mood and reduce stress through aromatherapy, blending therapeutic scents like lavender, citrus, and chamomile. The brand prides itself on using ethically sourced ingredients and sustainable practices in their manufacturing process. NEOM Organics aims to create a holistic experience that helps customers feel calmer, happier, and more balanced in their everyday lives.

NEW DIRECTIONS AROMATICS

New Directions Aromatics is a company specializing in essential oils, natural ingredients, and raw materials for various industries. They provide a wide array of products including essential oils, carrier oils, butters, waxes, and cosmetic bases. New Directions Aromatics sources their ingredients from around the world, focusing on quality and purity to meet the needs of their diverse customer base. They cater to aromatherapists, cosmetic formulators, and artisans who create skincare, haircare, and personal care products. The company emphasizes transparency and sustainability in their sourcing and manufacturing processes, aiming to deliver reliable and ethically sourced ingredients to their customers. Overall, New Directions Aromatics is committed to supporting the creation of natural and effective products for health, beauty, and well-being.

NATURE IN BOTTLE

Nature in Bottle is a company that specializes in natural ingredients and essential oils for various applications. They offer a wide range of products including organic oils, herbal extracts, floral waters, and cosmetic bases. Nature in Bottle focuses on providing high-quality ingredients sourced from sustainable and ethical suppliers around the globe. Their products cater to industries such as skincare, aromatherapy, and natural cosmetics, aiming to promote wellness and beauty through natural solutions. The company prioritizes transparency and integrity in their sourcing and manufacturing processes, ensuring that customers receive pure and effective ingredients for their formulations. Nature in Bottle is committed to supporting sustainable practices and empowering businesses to create products that are both effective and environmentally responsible.

WHOLESALE BOTANICS

Wholesale Botanics is a company specializing in providing bulk botanical ingredients and raw materials to various industries. They offer a diverse range of products including herbs, spices, teas, and botanical extracts sourced from around the world. Wholesale Botanics caters primarily to businesses such as herbalists, apothecaries, tea companies, and manufacturers of natural products. They focus on ensuring the quality and purity of their ingredients through rigorous testing and sourcing from reputable suppliers. The company emphasizes affordability and customer service, aiming to support businesses in creating high-quality products while maintaining competitive pricing. Wholesale Botanics strives to foster partnerships with their clients by offering reliable and sustainable botanical solutions for diverse applications.

PLANT THERAPY

Plant Therapy is a company that specializes in providing high-quality essential oils and natural products for aromatherapy and wellness. They offer a wide selection of essential oils, including single oils and blends, each crafted to promote specific therapeutic benefits such as relaxation, immune support, and mood enhancement. In addition to oils, Plant Therapy offers a range of natural body care products, carrier oils, and diffusers.

The company prides itself on transparency and purity, ensuring that their oils are free from additives and synthetic ingredients. Plant Therapy is dedicated to providing education about essential oils and safe usage practices, empowering customers to incorporate natural solutions into their daily lives. They emphasize customer satisfaction through responsive service and detailed product information, making them a trusted choice for individuals and families seeking natural wellness alternatives. Overall, Plant Therapy aims to promote health and well-being through the power of plants and essential oils.

ROCKY MOUNTAINS OIL

Rocky Mountain Oils is a company known for its focus on providing high-quality essential oils and natural products. They offer a wide range of essential oils sourced from around the world, ensuring purity and potency through rigorous testing and ethical sourcing practices. Rocky Mountain Oils emphasizes transparency in their manufacturing process, providing detailed information about the origin and quality of each oil they sell.

In addition to essential oils, the company offers natural personal care products, diffusers, and blends designed to support various aspects of health and well-being. They cater to individuals seeking natural alternatives for relaxation, skincare, and overall wellness. Rocky Mountain Oils is committed to promoting education about essential oils and safe usage practices, empowering their customers to make informed choices about their health and lifestyle. Overall, Rocky Mountain Oils aims to enhance the lives of their customers through the therapeutic benefits of natural oils and products.

CONCLUSION

The world of essential oils offers a vast array of options, and selecting the right brand can be overwhelming. This list of the top 15 essential oil brands in 2024 provides a starting point for your exploration. Remember, the “best” brand depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider factors like sourcing, organic certification, variety of oils, and price point when making your decision.

No matter which brand you choose, prioritize quality and purity to ensure a safe and effective aromatherapy experience. Happy smelling!