When it comes to calming, stress-relieving scents, lavender is usually first on the list. But these days, beauty and home fragrance companies are expanding their definition of “relaxing” to include other mood-regulating aromas. From single-notes like neroli—an anti-depressant that’s effective against insomnia and anxiety—to creative blends that mix lavender with some unexpected accents, these products will have you breathing deeply.
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1. Illume Saffron Lavender Reed Diffuser
In addition to lavender, this signature scent features calming chamomile, fresh verbena, and warming saffron, which is helpful in treating insomnia and respiratory issues. www.illumecandles.com
2. Maison Francis Kurkdjian Laundry Detergent in Aqua Universalis
Created by top perfumer Francis Kurkdjian, this subtle laundry blend lightly infuses clothes and sheets with the soothing scent of bergamot, white flowers, musky wood, and Sicilian lemons. The fragrance is also available as a room spray, candle, and scented incense papers. www.franciskurkdjian.com
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3. Malin + Goetz Candles in Cannabis
This candle is packed with natural ingredients. Musky, green cannabis—helpful in fighting headaches, anxiety, and depression—works with top notes of citrus, middle notes of fig and pepper, a base of sandalwood, and patchouli to create a warming, calming scent that’s also sexy and slightly masculine. www.malinandgoetz.com
4. Molton Brown Relaxing Yuan Zhi Sleep Mist
Used frequently in Traditional Chinese Medicine, yuan zhi (known in English as senega root) helps calm the sprit, soothe palpitations, and tackle anxiety. In this fragrant spray, the herb is supported by lavender, bergamot, and ylang ylang, which work together to balance energy. www.moltonbrown.com
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5. Robindira Unsworth Candle in Ibiza
Inspired by some of jewelry designer Unsworth’s favorite destinations, these soy-based candles use clean, unfussy signature essential oil blends. Ibiza’s combination (bergamot, neroli, lily, and jasmine) evokes a garden stroll on a warm summer night. www.robindira.com
6. Space NK Candles in Smoldering Embers
This British brand’s new Wild Garden collection highlights comforting, herb-based scents like ginger flower, clove, and tarragon. The Smoldering Embers blend warms the soul with a mix of birch, cedar, and sandalwood, over a base of black amber and oakmoss. You’ll want to curl up in front of the candle with a good book. www.spacenk.com