Are you concerned about the safety of candles?
In homes across the globe, candles provide a warm and inviting ambiance, but new research suggests that their use could pose significant health risks related to toxic emissions and indoor air quality.
When burned, many commercial scented candles emit Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) such as benzene, a known carcinogen, and toluene, which can cause serious health effects including respiratory irritation and increased cancer risk. These compounds can accumulate, particularly in small, poorly ventilated spaces.
Synthetic fragrance oils in candles often contain phthalates, chemicals used to stabilize scents that act as endocrine disruptors. These can alter hormone levels, worsen asthma symptoms, and may pose additional risks to vulnerable groups such as children, pets, and pregnant people.
Burning candles also emit fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which can degrade indoor air quality, potentially affecting lung health and cognitive function. Some studies link exposure to candle emissions with lower cognitive test scores, possibly due to inhalation of these pollutants.
The tiny chemical particles and fumes from candle smoke can irritate the nose, sinuses, and lungs, triggering headaches, allergy-like symptoms, and respiratory issues, especially in sensitive individuals.
While occasional candle use is generally not harmful, daily or frequent burning in enclosed, unventilated rooms increases the risk of chronic exposure to these toxins, potentially leading to long-term respiratory diseases and increased cancer risk.
To mitigate these risks, it is recommended to use unscented, natural wax candles (e.g., beeswax) rather than paraffin or synthetic-scented varieties. Ensuring good ventilation when burning candles and keeping candle wicks trimmed to reduce soot and pollutants are also crucial. Considering non-burning scent alternatives like diffusers with natural oils is another viable option.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that firefighters respond to approximately 7,400 structure fires in the U.S. caused by candles each year, resulting in an average of 90 deaths, 670 injuries, and nearly $300 million in property damage. Alternatives to candles include ghee and oil lamps, flameless candles, and wax melts.
Despite these concerns, candles continue to play a role in religious traditions and mindfulness practices worldwide due to their association with fire and human life. Dr. Sobia Farooq, a pulmonologist, recommends investing in high-quality candles and keeping them in well-ventilated areas.
It is essential to be aware of these health risks and to choose safer options to ensure a cleaner and healthier indoor environment for everyone.
References: [1] American Lung Association. (2021). Burning candles and your health. Retrieved from https://www.lung.org/our-initiatives/healthy-air/indoor-air-quality/at-home/burning-candles-and-your-health.html [2] Environmental Defense Fund. (2018). The hidden costs of scented candles. Retrieved from https://www.edf.org/health/hidden-costs-scented-candles [3] Farooq, S. (2020). The impact of candles on indoor air quality and human health. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2020, 1-8. [4] National Institutes of Health. (2021). Phthalates. Retrieved from https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/phthalates/index.cfm [5] U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. (2019). Candle safety tips. Retrieved from https://www.cpsc.gov/safety-education/safety-guides/home-safety/candle-safety-tips
- In the realm of health and wellness, frequent use of candles may pose significant risks due to the emission of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which can impact lung health and cognitive function.
- Some studies link exposure to candle emissions with lower cognitive test scores, and these pollutants can also cause respiratory irritation, headaches, and allergy-like symptoms.
- To mitigate these threats, consider using unscented, natural wax candles, ensuring good ventilation, keeping wicks trimmed, and using non-burning scent alternatives like diffusers with natural oils.
- fant lifestyle change, turn to potential alternatives like ghee and oil lamps, flameless candles, and wax melts, especially if you have sensitive respiratory conditions or if you use candles frequently.
- Educate yourself about these health risks to create a cleaner and healthier home and garden for everyone, not just for the sake of your own lifestyle but also for the well-being of your loved ones and pets.
