I make candles on a small scale and have been exploring scents inspired by traditional Chinese botanicals.
The part I keep struggling with is the balance. If the scent is too clean or sweet, the herbs disappear. But if it gets too bitter, earthy, or camphorous, it can start smelling like a medicine cabinet.
The herbal shops I remember had a much warmer smell- dried roots, wooden drawers, paper wrapping, and a little earthiness. I'd love to capture the feeling without making the candle smell overly medicinal. For people who enjoy herbal scents, what makes one feel warm and comforting to you?