Effects of Scented Candles on Air Quality

The Negative Effects of Scented Candles on Air Quality

 

I read an article that was in The Lincoln Journal-Star Newspaper, this article spoke about the effects of scented candles. The article brought up several issues that I’m sure have never crossed anyone’s mind when burning their scented candles.

In today’s society scented candles are considered aromatherapy and are used not only to smell nice but for alleged health benefits as well. However, these candles give off powerful toxins into the air we breath. These toxins include toluene, acetone, styrene, particulate matter and benzene. Lead is also contained in some of the candle wicks which is not a favorable situation.

candleEnvironmental medicine specialist have noticed an increase in health problems that are related to indoor air pollution caused by the burning of candles.

When burning candles not only are they giving off chemicals but soot has become a large problem. What makes the flame of a candle glow is an incomplete combustion of carbon-containign fuels, mostly petrochemical-based.

The lungs are a very delicate organ and soot particles are very tiny which gives them the capability of going into the inner most area of the lungs. By getting into this part of the lungs it can cause clogging and coating which is identical to way the candles pollute the ventilation systems and tarnish the walls. After reviewing the studies of the effects of candle soot researchers have concluded that they may have the same unfavorable effects as factory emissions or diesel exhaust. The next time you go to light that scented candle remember that you are not only emitting a pleasant aroma into the air of your home but soot and petrochemicals too. Having your air duct cleaning service every 2 years will help with removing some of that smoke from the air ducts and improve the air quality in you home.