Originally published September 14 2005
Candles can harm your health
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
Burning the wrong kind of candle can be hazardous to your health, so follow the following tips for buying safer candles: Read the label and avoid candles that contain chemical ingredients that will be emitted when burned; avoid paraffin candles, which can release carcinogenic compounds into the air when burned and sometimes have lead-based wicks; and look for more natural candles made from beeswax or soy wax.
A couple of weeks ago, I purchased a large firewood-scented candle.
I had tons of computer work to do, so what could be more soothing than having the scent of firewood fill the room and watching the gentle flicker of candlelight?
A couple of hours after lighting the candle, I developed a headache and felt unwell.
I tried it again the next day and the same thing happened.
I had heard about healthy vs. unhealthy candles but after experiencing it for myself, I decided to do some investigating.
I came up with these 4 guidelines for buying candles.
I've also included some links to natural candles.
Paraffin is a petroleum based by-product of refined gasoline.
When paraffin is burned, it releases carcinogenic toxins into the air.
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Manufacturers are not required to disclose lead content.
Candles may contain chemical additives that can be toxic when inhaled.
Be aware that candle manufacturers are not required to list or disclose hazardous, toxic or carcinogenic compounds used as ingredients in their products or even place warning labels on their products regarding lead content and emissions.
Guideline #3 Look for candles made with vegetable wax.
Vegetable wax burns cleaner, longer, and more evenly than paraffin and doesn't give off the oily soot.
Beeswax candles were the norm before they were replaced by tallow and paraffin.
Look for beeswax candles that haven't been dyed and are their natural honey color.
Craft stores and natural health foods stores often carry sheets of beeswax.
Soy candles Made from soybean oil, a type of vegetable oil.
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