While burning scented candles can enhance the aroma of your home, it’s important to understand their potential impact on lung health.
There was a time when candles served as emergency lighting during power outages. However, their role has evolved, and now they’re primarily used to create pleasant aromas in our homes. While scented candles contribute to a cozier atmosphere indoors, there’s growing concern about their safety. A study published in BMC Public Health revealed that individuals who regularly used and lit scented candles were more prone to health issues such as headaches, shortness of breath, and coughing.
In an interview with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr. Kutty Sharada Vinod, a Pulmonologist at Karuna Hospital in Delhi, discusses the impact of scented candles on lung health and suggests measures to minimize their adverse effects.
What Occurs When You Light Scented Candles
Burning scented candles indoors can release small particles and gases that contaminate the indoor air. Dr. Vinod notes that these emissions may include carcinogenic toxins like benzene, toluene, formaldehyde, and others, which are also present in diesel fuel.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), benzene can be emitted from natural sources like volcanoes and forest fires, as well as from tobacco smoke, glues, paints, furniture wax, and detergents. The CDC warns that direct exposure to benzene through the eyes, skin, or lungs can cause tissue injury and irritation.
Although studies indicate that these emissions are unlikely to cause long-term health effects, the combination of indoor air pollution from candle fumes and other sources such as cooking can exacerbate respiratory issues, especially in individuals with pre-existing conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), according to Dr. Vinod.
Can the Burning of Scented Candles Affect Lung Health
Various candles emit different levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), influenced by factors such as the type of paraffin and additives used, according to Dr. Vinod.
A study in the Journal of Hazardous Materials observed that even unlit scented candles released VOCs, which increased upon lighting, including chemicals like benzene, toluene, and formaldehyde, known for their carcinogenic properties.
Dr. Vinod highlights that paraffin (derived from petroleum) and scented candles are particularly concerning, despite their common availability.
Paraffin wax, a petroleum-derived substance, is widely used in candle production.
Burning these candles not only affects indoor air quality but can also stain surfaces like walls and ceilings.
Additionally, Dr. Vinod warns that using candles frequently in poorly ventilated spaces can worsen asthma, induce allergy-like symptoms, and irritate the respiratory tract.
However, a 2014 study in Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology suggests that candle emissions are unlikely to reach levels that pose significant health risks.
Who Should Refrain from Burning Candles Indoors
People with pre-existing conditions like asthma or chronic bronchitis should refrain from burning candles and incense indoors to reduce their exposure to potential respiratory irritants and pollutants.
Safe Candle Burning Guidelines
Here are some essential tips for safely burning candles and common mistakes to avoid:
1. Trim the wick to between 1/8 and 1/4 inches before lighting each time, and ensure the wax melts evenly across the surface.
2. Keep candles away from draughty areas and never leave them unattended while burning.
3. Avoid burning candles for an excessively long time during the first use.
4. Place candles on heat-resistant surfaces to prevent furniture damage or accidents.
5. Be mindful not to use too many candles, as this can impact burn quality and fragrance potency.
Conclusion
While burning candles can potentially release toxic chemicals such as benzene and formaldehyde, studies indicate that the level of pollution emitted is generally not significant enough to pose a threat. Nonetheless, it’s wise to exercise caution, particularly if you have pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD.