Are Scented Candles Killing You?

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Are Scented Candles Killing You? Some believe that scented candles are helpful in covering smells and also with aromatherapy. Others believe scented candles, air fresheners, and some oils are very harmful to the body and could be killing you. So, what are scented candles really doing to your body? The sense of smell is one of our strongest senses. Melissa Breyer states, “What’s clear is that we thrive on good smells; and it seems to me like we have been subtly strong-armed into thinking that synthetic “fresh” smells are better than the natural smells of living” (Breyer). There are numerous hazardous chemicals commonly used in fragrances. When these chemicals are inhaled, it could cause central nervous system disorders, nausea, etc. Breyer explains “The American Lung Association of Minnesota says that burning candles can emit small amounts of toxins such as acetone, benzene, lead and mercury into the air” (Breyer). Some believe that beeswax candles with cotton wicks are the safest option. Millions of homes across America contain scented candles. Most scented candles are made from paraffin wax which derives from a petroleum by-product such as crude-oil used also in gasoline. Also used in such things as Vaseline, crayons, and lip balm. April Duke emphasizes, “Something like Vaseline, which we put on our skin, is troubling enough; but let's consider the impact of actually burning this in your home and thereby releasing toxins into the air that your entire family breathes” (Duke). Burning petroleum based candles not only release toxins but also accumulates black soot in your home. Duke states, “The EPA has even released a report citing petroleum based scented candles as an indoor pollutant and has advised caution when utilizing these... ... middle of paper ... ...ed products. The next time you consider whether to buy that scented candle from your local store, you should also factor in the impact it may have regarding your home and your family. It may smell nice now, but the added side-effects just plain stink. Works Cited Breyer, Melissa. “Are Scented Candles Making You Sick?”Care2.com. Good Scents: Natural Perfumes, 13 Feb. 2009. Web. 12 Nov. 2013. Duke, April. “Could Your Scented Candles Be Killing You?”Yahoo.com. Shine and Lifestyles Network, 16 Oct. 2008. Web. 12 Nov. 2013. Goodwin, Jenifer. “Air Fresheners, Scented Candles May Spur Allergic Reactions.” Philly.com, 6 Nov. 2011. Web. 12 Nov. 2013. Hensley, Scott. “Clear The Air: Scented Candles, can be Irritating.” Npr.com, 8 Nov. 2011. Web. 12 Nov. 2013. Lambert, Victoria. “Is Your Scent Making You Ill?”dailymail.co.uk.Allergyuk.org, 18 Sept. 2012. Web. 12 Nov. 2013.

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