Ethics are the moral principles that we each hold and that govern our conduct. These are subjective and can be seen as right and wrong when judged in societal terms. We build our moral and ethical values throughout our lives, they are influenced by our experiences and by the people we associate with or respect. Judgements about what we consider to be good or bad, right or wrong can be affected by many things such as cost implications, availability and understanding. The more we know about an issue the easier it is to consider our ethics and make a decision that works for us. 

Eco-friendly is a moral principle relating to the environment. When it comes to products, this means that every step of manufacturing, from the labels to the packaging need to be safe for the environment. 

Ethics therefore, are overarching moral principles and being eco-friendly is one of these principles.

Currently a number of waxes are used to make candles and wax products. Paraffin (also called mineral wax) is widely used, as are a variety of vegetable waxes and beeswax.

Paraffin/mineral wax is a by-product of the oil industry, it is therefore not sustainable, renewable or biodegradable. It is also thought to releases a number of toxins when burned, including acetone, benzene and toluene that are also emitted in car emissions, they produce a lot of soot.

Beeswax is a natural, renewable and biodegradable. The wax is very dense making the candles last longer, but it is around five times more expensive and not classed as vegan friendly.

Soy/vegetable waxes are all bi-products of food manufacturing, they are sustainable, renewable and biodegradable. Soy wax is denser than paraffin wax and therefore can last up to twice as long and doesn’t create as much soot or emissions.

 Mixed waxes - Warning

Mixed Waxes are a concern to us because labelling regulations mean that if paraffin wax makes up less than half of the blend then the candle can be described as soy or vegetable. Ensure therefore that the candles that you buy are 100% vegetable wax.

The simple answer is that whilst some essential oils are beneficial to pets some can cause serious health issues. The most vulnerable animals are thought to be birds and fish but any small animal should be considered susceptible to the fumes emitted by scent. 

If your pet shows any negative effects when you use scented products then stop using them immediately and consult your vet. 

Click this link for a basic list of the most toxic oils.

Aromatherapy or essential oils are extracted by distillation usually using steam, expressing or using solvents from flowers, roots, leaves, seeds or bark. These fragrances can vary hugely dependent on the source and extraction method, so you will not always get the same fragrance from them.

Fragrance or perfume oils are made from a variety of substances natural, synthetic or a combination of both and in a number of ways as with essential oils. These are manufactured in such a way that they can be more consistent in their aroma.

An alternative, complimentary therapy using essential oils extracts from plants. Olfactory nerves are stimulated when these are inhaled which stimulates the emotional centre of the brain causing the release of hormones. Different oils will cause different effects, for example inhaling lavender has a relaxing effect and can aid sleep.