Jessie Taylor
There is some debate about whether burning candles is bad for your health. Candles made from natural sources are considered the best option for minimizing the amount of particulate matter inhaled. Natural candles made from beeswax, soy wax, or coconut wax burn cleaner and produce fewer harmful byproducts. However, some natural fragrances, like essential oils, can be harmful to your airways. Burning any candle, natural or not, releases hydrocarbons, which are organic compounds that create a scent. While the small amounts released by candles are not a significant health risk for most people, they can be harmful to those with underlying health issues.
Are natural candles bad for you?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Health risks | Burning candles can contribute to indoor air pollution and release hydrocarbons, toluene, benzene, and particulate matter into the air. However, the amount of pollutants released is not considered a significant health risk for most people, and natural candles are generally cleaner-burning and produce fewer harmful byproducts. |
| Safety hazards | The most significant safety hazard associated with candles is the risk of fire. |
| Health benefits | Candles made from natural ingredients like beeswax can have air-purifying properties and are beneficial for people with asthma or allergies. |
| Recommended use | To minimize potential health risks, it is recommended to burn candles in a well-ventilated area, choose high-quality candles made from natural waxes like beeswax, soy wax, or coconut wax, and avoid candles with artificial fragrances and colorants. |
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What You'll Learn
- Natural candles are a cleaner alternative to paraffin candles
- Natural candles may still contain harmful chemicals
- Burning any candle can cause indoor air pollution
- Natural candles may be better for people with asthma or allergies
- Natural candles are made from materials such as beeswax, soy wax, or coconut wax
Natural candles are a cleaner alternative to paraffin candles
While burning candles is not the healthiest choice, natural candles are a cleaner alternative to paraffin candles.
Paraffin candles are made from a cheap byproduct of petroleum and release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) when burned. These VOCs are gases that vaporize at room temperature, and some are harmful on their own, while others react with other gases to form pollutants. One of the VOCs emitted from paraffin candles is toluene, which has a distinctive smell and naturally occurs in crude oil. Toluene is registered as a toxin by some regulatory agencies, including the US Environmental Protection Agency and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Natural candles, on the other hand, burn cleaner and produce fewer harmful byproducts. They are made from natural materials like beeswax, soy wax, or coconut wax and often use natural fragrances or essential oils, reducing exposure to synthetic chemicals. Beeswax candles, in particular, are renowned for their clean burn and natural, subtle honey scent. They also have air-purifying properties, which can be beneficial for people with asthma or allergies.
However, it is important to note that even natural candles can release potentially harmful toxins, and incomplete combustion can leave behind soot. Therefore, it is recommended to burn candles in a well-ventilated area and to follow candle safety guidelines. Additionally, choosing higher-quality candles can help minimize risk, as lower-quality candles tend to emit more particulate matter and chemicals.
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Natural candles may still contain harmful chemicals
Natural candles are often considered a healthier alternative to conventional candles. However, it is important to note that even natural candles may contain harmful chemicals that can impact your health.
The concern regarding the safety of candles stems from the chemical reactions that occur during burning, as well as the presence of artificial fragrances and colourants. While natural candles are believed to be a better option, it doesn't eliminate the risk of exposure to potentially harmful substances.
Candles made from paraffin wax, a petroleum byproduct, are of particular concern. Paraffin wax is the most commonly used candle wax globally, and it releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs) when burned. These VOCs, such as toluene and benzene, are known to be toxic and can contribute to indoor air pollution. Toluene, for example, is a toxin with established exposure limits set by regulatory agencies like the US Environmental Protection Agency.
However, it's important to mention that the amount of particulate matter released from burning candles is generally not considered enough to cause health problems in humans, according to a 2014 study. Additionally, the combustion process of burning candles naturally leaves behind soot, which is not a significant health hazard and is similar to the byproducts of kitchen toasters or frying pans.
Natural candles made from beeswax, soy wax, or coconut wax are often recommended as cleaner-burning alternatives. These candles produce fewer harmful byproducts and are less likely to contain synthetic fragrances, which can be problematic for some individuals. However, even natural fragrances like essential oils can potentially be harmful to your airways, and the smoke from any candle can be unhealthy if inhaled in significant quantities.
While the scientific opinion on the safety of candles is mixed, it is generally recommended to choose candles wisely, burn them responsibly, and always ensure proper ventilation to minimise potential health risks.
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Burning any candle can cause indoor air pollution
Burning candles can contribute to indoor air pollution. Candles are a combustion product, and burning them releases hydrocarbons, chemical compounds consisting of hydrogen and carbon. Specifically, burning candles releases trace quantities of toluene and benzene. Toluene is commonly used in paint thinners and adhesives, and it is registered as a toxin by some regulatory agencies. Benzene is potentially cancer-causing.
However, the amount of these compounds released when burning a candle is minimal and is only a cause for concern in certain situations. Dr. Farooq explains that volatile organic hydrocarbons accumulate in the blood and are eventually excreted through the bladder, which is why there is a suggested link between candle burning and bladder cancer. As a result, Dr. Farooq advises that people under surveillance for, living with, or in remission from bladder cancer might want to avoid burning candles. Likewise, people with chronic lung conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) should be mindful of the levels of air pollution in their homes.
The type of wax used in candles can also affect the amount of indoor air pollution caused by burning them. Candles made from natural sources, such as beeswax, soy wax, or other plant-based waxes, are better for minimizing the amount of particulate matter released into the air. Natural candles also release fewer dangerous chemicals. For example, candles made from palm stearin only release half as much soot as candles made from paraffin.
To reduce indoor air pollution when burning candles, it is recommended to burn them in a well-ventilated area and to keep the area ventilated after blowing them out. It is also important to follow candle safety guidelines to avoid accidents.
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Natural candles may be better for people with asthma or allergies
While burning candles is not the healthiest choice, natural candles may be better for people with asthma or allergies. Natural candles are made from materials like beeswax, soy wax, or coconut wax. These candles burn cleaner and produce fewer harmful byproducts. They also often use natural fragrances or essential oils, reducing exposure to synthetic chemicals.
Natural candles are a healthier alternative to traditional candles, which can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as toluene and benzene. These compounds are commonly found in paints, cleaning products, cosmetics, and car exhaust. Some VOCs are harmful on their own, while others can react with other gases to form pollutants. Toluene, for example, is registered as a toxin by several regulatory agencies.
Lower-quality candles, often indicated by their price, are more likely to use conventional waxes and fragrances, emitting more particulate matter and chemicals. These candles may also contain artificial fragrances and colorants that contribute to various scents. However, it's important to note that even natural fragrances like essential oils can be harmful to your airways when burned. Limonene, for instance, is widely used in organic compounds but can be dangerous at high concentrations.
To minimize the potential health risks of burning candles, choose natural, non-toxic candles and burn them responsibly. Burn candles in a well-ventilated area to reduce indoor air pollution from soot, VOCs, or smoke. Keep the area ventilated even after blowing out the candles. Additionally, opt for candles with essential oils or those labeled as phthalate-free, and avoid dyed candles.
While the therapeutic benefits of burning candles may outweigh the health risks for most people, those with underlying respiratory issues or allergies may want to be cautious. Natural candles, with their cleaner burn and reduced pollutants, can be a safer option for individuals with asthma or allergies.
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Natural candles are made from materials such as beeswax, soy wax, or coconut wax
Beeswax candles are a popular choice for non-toxic options. They burn cleaner, have a longer burn time, and purify the air. Bluecorn, for example, offers high-quality beeswax candles with a natural, long-lasting burn. Happy Organics also produces beeswax candles that are hand-dipped and harvested from their own hives, with a focus on sustainable and ethical beekeeping.
Soy wax candles are another natural alternative. They are often marketed as ""healthier" or "non-toxic" options compared to conventional candles made from paraffin wax. However, it is important to note that the natural compounds in scented soy candles can produce bad compounds when burned, similar to artificial fragrances. Therefore, unscented candles made of any wax are generally considered healthier.
Coconut wax candles are also available as a natural option. While there is limited information specifically about coconut wax candles, natural candles as a whole are known to release the least dangerous chemicals.
Overall, natural candles made from materials such as beeswax, soy wax, or coconut wax are considered healthier alternatives to traditional candles due to their cleaner burn and reduced use of synthetic chemicals. However, it is still important to burn candles responsibly and in well-ventilated areas to minimize indoor air pollution and potential health risks.
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Frequently asked questions
Burning candles can contribute to indoor air pollution, but natural candles are a better option for minimizing the amount of particulate matter you breathe in. Natural candles made from beeswax, soy wax, or coconut wax burn cleaner and produce fewer harmful byproducts.
Scented candles have been linked to health issues, but natural candles made from essential oils are a healthier alternative. However, burning essential oils can be harmful to your airways, so it is best to burn scented candles in a well-ventilated room.
Yes, the therapeutic benefits of burning candles far outweigh any health risks they may pose. Candles made from beeswax can also purify the air and have a longer burn time.
Yes, it is best to avoid lower-quality candles as they emit more particulate matter and chemicals. Candles made from paraffin wax, a petroleum byproduct, are also of chief concern as they release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as toluene, which is registered as a toxin.
To minimize the amount of smoke you breathe in, burn candles in a well-ventilated room and keep them away from drafts. It is also important to follow candle safety guidelines to avoid the most obvious safety hazard—fire.
