How is this patchouli oil used in scented candles?
Patchouli is a favourite candle fragrance: it is thermally stable, oxidation-resistant and gives a rich, tenacious scent throw that fills a room. Because it is a base note, it is usually combined with middle and top notes to build a balanced candle fragrance.
Candle Use Guidelines
| Parameter | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Fragrance load (soy wax) | 5-8% of wax weight |
| Fragrance load (paraffin / blend) | 5-10% of wax weight |
| Incorporation temperature | 65-75°C for soy; 75-85°C for paraffin blends |
| Pour temperature | 50-60°C (follow your wax spec) |
| Curing time | 48-72 hours before burning for best throw |
| Wick recommendation | Test; cotton wicks work well with 5-8% loads |
Why Patchouli Performs Well in Candles
- High flash point (95-110°C) means low evaporation loss during pouring and a clean burn
- Sesquiterpene-rich oil resists oxidation under the heat of wax preparation
- Its tenacity translates to long-lasting scent, and it anchors lighter notes in the blend
Suggested Candle Accords
| Accord | Blend |
|---|---|
| Earthy calm | Patchouli + cedarwood + vetiver |
| Oriental evening | Patchouli + vanilla + amber |
| Fresh woody | Patchouli + bergamot + sandalwood |
| Spice bazaar | Patchouli + cinnamon + clove |
Notes for Candle Makers
- Always test wick size and fragrance load with your specific wax; do not rely on a single recipe
- Patchouli colours candles slightly amber — fine for tinted candles; use the iron-free pale grade for white candles
- Safety: never exceed the recommended load for your wax; keep the working area ventilated
This article was published on 2026-09-07, and last updated on 2026-09-07. The article will be continuously updated.