Scented candles can cause hormone disruption
Are you planning a candlelit dinner with the family, or simply want a quiet night curled up with a book, or relaxing in the comfort of scented candles? You may be unintentionally sabotaging yourself.
According to Dr. Srinivas Kandula, these scented candles release toxins that can threaten to disrupt your health in more ways than you can imagine.
Among them, scented candles are known to release particles into the air we breathe, especially indoors and in closed spaces. According to conducted studies, burning scented candles can disrupt hormones due to the presence of phthalates in the fragrances used in candle production.
Dr. Srinivas Kandula shares, these phthalate chemicals are put into candles to create a long-lasting fragrance and increase the durability of candle resin and wax. Phthalates are known to disrupt hormones, which can lead to serious consequences such as reduced fertility and can even cause cancer.
“Scented candles also contain chemical derivatives such as paraffin, parabens and other synthetic ingredients that can affect hormones,” Dr. Kandula added.
Some precautions
Dr. Kandula suggests choosing a well-ventilated space when lighting candles. Because, when using candles in the house, we are more likely to inhale the toxins contained in candles.
By limiting the frequency of use, this problem can also be prevented. He advises against lighting scented candles every day.
Dr. Kandula says, choose natural fragrances instead of candles containing synthetic fragrances.
“Don't leave candles burning for long periods of time or overnight, and keep them out of reach of children and flammable objects in the house. Always cut the candle wick before lighting the candle. This can help prevent the production of soot, also known as black residue left in the air,” he pointed out.
Safe and non-toxic alternative
Dr. Kandula says it's important to choose alternatives that are non-toxic and won't harm your health.
“People can choose candles made from beeswax. Or another option for non-toxic candles can be made from soy wax. Recently, coconut wax candles have also become more popular. These types of candles pose less health risk than candles made with chemicals," Mr. Kandula advised.
In terms of fragrance, he recommends using natural essential oils. Additionally, looking for materials included in candles can help reduce the risk of allergic reactions.
“You can light candles 2 or 3 times a week. In a month, you should not light scented candles more than 12 times," Dr. Kandula said.
According to this doctor, factors such as candle burning time, candle making materials, and type of space used to burn candles play an important role in determining health risk factors.
If the family has asthma-sensitive people, young children or pets, it is important to be cautious and not use scented candles frequently.
