A Guide to Creating a Calming Environment with 5 Natural Fragrances

Welcome to my guide to soothing home fragrances! With the rise of remote work and hybrid work models, it’s more important than ever to create a comfortable atmosphere in your home. Creating a welcoming ambience is not only beneficial for our mental health, but it can also improve productivity.

That’s why I have found a few brands that make a significant difference in your home’s ambience.

Phool Agarbattis/ Incense Sticks

I used to avoid lighting incense sticks because of their strong chemical odour that would give me headaches. However, I discovered Phool and was smitten by their natural fragrances. Their Orange (Rs. 245 for refill packs with 80 sticks) and Lavender (Rs. 245 for refill packs) sticks are my personal favourites. Phool recycles temple flowers, provides employment to local women, and addresses the issue of pollution. Besides, their incense sticks are soothing and light on the senses. Their Tuberose and Indian Rose sticks are also great options but tend to leave a slight pungent note at the end.

If you’re looking for other incense stick options, Nytarra’s Luxury Dhoop Sticks (Rs. 499 after discount for a pack of three are worth a try). Their bamboo-less Divine Rose, Exotic Jasmine, and Sandalwood sticks have earthy notes that create a calming atmosphere. The combo pack of three sticks is ideal for gifting as well.

Another new find is Pure Day’s Rose and Saffron bambooless agarbatti sticks (priced at Rs. 150. And I found the aroma way lighter and more soothing than Phool’s Tuberose. In fact, Pure Day’s Rose agarbattis have very fresh tippy toe hints of rose and saffron notes.

Natural Room Fresheners

If you’re not a fan of incense sticks, natural room fresheners are an excellent alternative. Nytarra’s aromatherapy fresheners made of soy wax and essential oils are my top pick. Their Floral Sage, Citrus Burst, and Calming White Tea options create a refreshing ambience. The combo pack of three tablets priced at Rs 885 is long-lasting and perfect for gifting. Keep one in your wardrobe and breathe in serenity.  

Havan Cups

For those who love the smell of smoke emanating during havan, Nytarra’s cow dung havan cups create a calming atmosphere at home. They’re a blend of Jatamasi, Tulsi, Ashwagandha, Guggal, Loban, and dried flowers. The pack of 12 cups and a holder is priced at Rs 245. However, if you’re not comfortable with the smoke, you can keep the windows open for the time being.

Pure Natural Aromatic Oils

Aromatic oils can add a hint of freshness to any room. Aroma Magic’s Lavender (Rs. 195) and Cedarwood (Rs. 250)essential oils are my favourites. Lavender has a soothing effect, while Cedarwood has a calming woodsy scent. I add a few drops to my ceramic flower diffuser (Rs. 180) from Nytarra and place it in my living room. It’s an effortless way to create a refreshing ambience.

Camphor

Camphor is an excellent option for the winter months. Bhimseni Camphor’s chips (Rs. 265) on a diffuser with a tea light underneath create a warm and cosy atmosphere. These are ideal for closed spaces such as living rooms when you gather around with the family for some chai or chitchats.

CamPure cones (Rs. 479) are a safer option than artificial room fresheners and are an effective natural mosquito repellent. They’re ideal for placing in children’s rooms to reduce the occurrence of coughs and colds.

While it may seem like a lot of effort to make healthier and more environmentally conscious choices, taking small steps can make a big difference. Although we cannot completely eliminate mass-produced items, we can make mindful choices that contribute to a better life and a healthier planet.

Disclaimer: This is not a paid promotion. Please note the writer has purchased every single item and used them for several months to a few years and then written this review based on requests from family and friends.

Thumbs up for Phool/ Nytarra/ Pure Day

• No chemicals used.
• Non-plastic packaging.
• Use of essential oils, flowers and herbs.
• No strong scent hence no headaches.
• All natural and plant-based ingredients.
• Safer options for humans and pets.
• Full of positivity, happy and calming notes.
• Excellent gifting options.
• Phool and PureDay boxes are reusable for keeping stationery and craft purposes.

Thumbs down

• Pricing for Nytarra makes it a premium product.
• Phool agarbattis could also work on their price point a bit.
• While Phool agarbatti sticks come in paper boxes, they still have a plastic packet to retain the freshness.
• I’d like to see more options for agarbattis from Phool.

Contributor: Tanya Munshi

Writing Mentor & Founder of The Lifestyle Portal.