Mary Abraham and Sona Vaidyan of Asoy Candles cast light on the benefits of handmade soy wax candles

Enterprising aunt and niece Mary Abraham and Sona Vaidyan, both of them Australia-based Malayalis, can’t stop waxing lyrical about soy candles, the hep thing in home décor these days. “Soy candles are made of soy wax, which in turn is processed from soybean oil and are thus much less toxic than paraffin candles that are made from hydrogenated petroleum,” explains Sona. “As such, soy candles are clean burning; they burn slower and last longer; they do not leave a soot residue nor do they have a petrol-like scent,” she adds. Smelling an opportunity the duo launched Asoy Candles in Australia back in January and quickly came up roses for their artisanal soy candles in a jar. Asoy Candles is now available in India.

“Each Asoy Candle represents the memory of those in your heart,” writes Mary, an airlines professional based in Sydney. “I learnt to make candles from a professional candle maker; I enjoy making them because I find it therapeutic. My hobby soon became a passion and I felt the need to expand,” she says. Meanwhile, in Melbourne, Sona, a homemaker, was a huge fan of scented candles. She read an article about the chemicals used in incense and normal candles and started researching about alternative materials, particularly those made of soy. “I started making customised soy candles for friends and for their kids’ birthday parties. Everyone liked the candles and started ordering more. My aunt and I combined knowledge and resources to start Asoy,” explains Sona.

The duo says that all their candles are made from pure soy wax; the wicks are 100 per cent cotton and they use only natural colours. “The materials are all from Australia. Each candle is handmade. The glass jars are reusable,” says Mary

One of Asoy top-selling scents is citronella, which is a natural oil extracted from the citronella plant. “Citronella is a natural insect repellent,” says Sona. Lemongrass, meanwhile, is “an uplifting fragrance” known for its anti-depressant properties and Lavender is known for its calming properties. They also have scented candles of eucalyptus, English rose, vanilla and others based on designer fragrances. “Each new fragrance is brought out after careful research and trial. We can customise the candle jar by adding messages, if it is a party order (10 or more),” explains Sona.

Prices start from Rs. 700 and can be ordered online through Asoy’s Facebook page for delivery anywhere in India.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> Features> MetroPlus> Society / Nita Sathyendran / Thiruvananthapuram – July 27th, 2016