Scientists say scented candles are bad for health. The smoke produced by many of them is laced with toxins linked to cancer, asthma and eczema. We should avoid using them day after day in bathrooms and other poorly ventilated rooms, say the researchers.
U.S. researchers burnt a range of candles in the laboratory and collected and tested the substances given off. Those made of paraffin wax, the most common type, released potentially harmful amounts of chemicals such as toluene and benzene.
Some of the pollutants have been linked to cancer, while others could trigger asthma attacks or skin complaints.
Beeswax and soy candles, which are more expensive, were given a clean bill of health in the tests.
[Source]
Chapter: Cancer :: 21 September 2009
