Heidi Norton
Incense burning is a popular practice worldwide, with many cultures using it for hygienic, spiritual, and health purposes. Incense is usually made of natural materials like sage, resins, oils, and wood, but incense makers have started adding more materials to enhance fragrance and burn ability. While incense is not officially deemed a major public health risk, recent research reveals there could be some health drawbacks. Studies have found that incense smoke contains particulate matter, gas products, and volatile organic compounds, which can lead to respiratory diseases and even cancer. Incense sticks are also made of highly flammable materials, so it's important to take precautions when burning them, such as never leaving them unattended and keeping them away from flammable objects.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fire hazard | Incense sticks are made of highly flammable materials and can easily topple over and start a fire. |
| Health hazard | Smoke from burning incense contains particulate matter, gas products, and volatile organic compounds, which can be inhaled and have negative health outcomes. |
| Cancer risk | Studies have found an association between incense use and a higher risk of cancer, particularly upper respiratory tract and lung carcinomas. |
| Respiratory issues | Incense smoke can cause respiratory dysfunction and aggravate chronic respiratory diseases. |
| Cardiovascular issues | Exposure to the smoke from burning incense can contribute to cardiovascular diseases. |
| Correct use | To reduce risks, it is recommended to use incense in a well-ventilated area and avoid leaving it unattended. |
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What You'll Learn
Incense smoke contains carcinogens and irritants
Incense smoke contains particulate matter, gas products, and volatile organic compounds. Particulate matter from incense burning is 45 mg/g on average, which is more than that of a cigarette, which is 10 mg/g. The particulate matter in incense smoke is carcinogenic and can cause cancer. A study in 2021 confirmed that incense smoke contains carcinogens, which could lead to respiratory diseases such as asthma. The risk of cancer is higher with higher exposure to incense smoke. Most of these cancers were upper respiratory tract carcinomas or lung carcinomas.
The gas products from burning incense include carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and sulphur dioxide (SO2). These gases can cause headaches, dizziness, weakness, and nausea at low doses, and can be fatal at higher doses. Sulphur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide can also aggravate pre-existing cardiovascular disease, cause lung irritation, and alter the lung defence system.
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that have very low boiling points and can easily evaporate at room temperature. The VOCs produced by burning incense include benzene, toluene, and xylenes, as well as aldehydes and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). These compounds have been associated with an increased risk of peripheral arterial diseases. The smoke from burning incense also contains toxic perfumes and synthetic ingredients, which can be harmful to health.
The physical characteristics of incense sticks, such as their length and diameter, can affect the amount of smoke produced and the concentration of particulate matter in the air. The composition of incense sticks also varies, with some containing more fragrance material or adhesive powder, which can affect the amount and type of particulate matter produced.
Overall, the smoke from burning incense contains carcinogens and irritants that can have negative health effects, especially with prolonged exposure. It is important to use incense sticks safely and in well-ventilated areas to reduce the potential risks associated with their use.
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Incense smoke may cause respiratory diseases
The combustion of incense sticks releases smoke containing particulate matter, gas products, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The particulate matter in incense smoke has been found to be higher than that of cigarettes, with an average of 45 mg/g compared to 10 mg/g for cigarettes. This particulate matter can be inhaled, potentially causing negative health outcomes. The smoke also contains toxic and irritant compounds, including carcinogens, which can lead to respiratory issues such as asthma and other respiratory diseases.
The specific composition of incense sticks varies, but they typically contain herbal and wood powder, fragrance material, adhesive powder, and a bamboo stick. The herbal and wood powders used include Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch., Cinnamomum cassia Bl., Nardostachys chinensis Bastal., Foeniculum vulgare Mill., and Rheum officinale Baill. The fragrance materials added to enhance the scent, burning ability, and structural integrity of the incense blend can include natural and synthetic ingredients.
To minimise the potential health risks associated with burning incense, it is recommended to follow safety guidelines. This includes burning incense in well-ventilated areas, avoiding flammable surfaces, and not leaving burning incense unattended. It is also important to keep incense away from flammable objects and to monitor it continuously while burning.
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Incense smoke and indoor air pollution
Incense smoke is a source of indoor air pollution. The combustion of incense releases particulate matter, gas products, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The particulate matter from incense burning is 45 mg/g on average, which is more than that of a cigarette, at 10 mg/g. These fine particles, with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometers, can be inhaled and are believed to pose significant health risks.
The gas products released from burning incense include carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and sulphur dioxide (SO2). These gases, especially carbon monoxide, can have adverse effects on the human body. Low doses of carbon monoxide can cause headaches, dizziness, weakness, and nausea, while higher concentrations can be fatal. Sulphur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide can irritate the lungs and respiratory system and aggravate pre-existing cardiovascular conditions.
Volatile organic compounds, such as benzene, toluene, and xylenes, are also emitted during incense burning. These compounds have low boiling points and easily evaporate at room temperature. Additionally, incense smoke contains aldehydes and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which have been linked to an increased risk of peripheral arterial diseases. The complex mixture of compounds in incense smoke, when inhaled, can lead to respiratory system dysfunction and potential carcinogenic effects.
To minimise the impact of incense smoke on indoor air quality, it is recommended to burn incense in a well-ventilated area. Opening windows during and after burning can help disperse the smoke and reduce exposure to harmful compounds. Burning incense in a confined, poorly ventilated room can lead to a buildup of smoke concentration, posing potential health hazards. It is also important to follow safety guidelines when burning incense, such as using a heat-resistant holder and keeping it away from flammable objects, to prevent fire hazards.
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Incense sticks are highly flammable
Incense sticks are made of highly flammable materials, so it is important to take precautions when burning them. Incense sticks are typically composed of 21% herbal and wood powder, 35% fragrance material, 11% adhesive powder, and 33% bamboo stick. The bamboo base is slender, and the incense mixture is attached to it. This makes it easy for the incense to topple over and start a fire, so it is important to use an incense holder or stand to keep them upright.
When burning incense sticks, it is crucial to never leave them unattended and to keep them away from flammable objects. This includes curtains, towels, clothes, and anything with a high alcohol or petroleum content, such as hairspray or aerosols. The area around the incense should be clear of any potential fuel sources, and it should be monitored at all times while burning. Even when placed in a holder, there is a risk of the incense falling out and landing on something flammable, so staying nearby and keeping an eye on it is essential.
The correct way to extinguish incense sticks is to place the burning end in a bowl of sand or water. Blowing them out like a candle is not recommended as incense sticks have far more embers, which can be dispersed and cause accidental fires. Even after the incense has been extinguished, it is important to check that it is fully cooled down before disposing of it in the trash. The holder should also be checked to ensure it is no longer hot before tossing it away.
In addition to the fire hazards, there are also health risks associated with burning incense sticks. The smoke released contains particulate matter, including fine particles less than 2.5 micrometres in diameter, which can be easily inhaled and have potential negative health outcomes. These particles can cause respiratory system dysfunction and increase the risk of respiratory problems. Studies have also found an association between incense use and a higher risk of cancer, particularly upper respiratory tract and lung carcinomas.
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Incense smoke and respiratory and cardiovascular diseases
Incense smoke contains small, inhalable particulate matter, which can lead to respiratory diseases such as asthma. It can also trigger chronic inflammation in the body and oxidative stress. In addition, incense smoke contains gases such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide, which is a respiratory irritant and bronchial constrictor. It has been associated with increased hospital admissions, morbidity, and mortality due to respiratory problems.
The particulate matter in incense smoke contains carcinogens and irritants, which can lead to respiratory diseases. A 2021 study confirmed that some of the particulate matter in incense smoke is carcinogenic, meaning it could cause cancer. There is an association between higher cancer risk and incense use, with most of these cancers being upper respiratory tract carcinomas or lung carcinomas.
Furthermore, incense smoke has been associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Studies have indicated the ability of incense smoke to induce various cardiovascular conditions, and a strong relationship has been reported between incense use and death due to cardiovascular diseases.
To reduce the potential health risks associated with incense smoke, it is recommended to limit incense use and exposure to the smoke. Burning incense in a well-ventilated area can help reduce exposure, and opening windows during or after use is advised.
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Frequently asked questions
Incense sticks are not safe to burn indoors. The smoke released contains particulate matter, which can be inhaled and may have negative health outcomes. Incense smoke contains carcinogens and irritants, which could lead to respiratory diseases such as asthma. It is recommended to burn incense in a well-ventilated area to avoid the concentration of smoke building up and causing a health hazard.
Burning incense sticks can expose you to harmful chemicals and increase your risk of respiratory problems. The smoke from incense burning contains particulate matter, gas products, and volatile organic compounds. Studies have also found a correlation between incense use and a higher risk of cancer, although it is not deemed a major public health risk.
Yes, incense sticks are made of highly flammable materials and can easily start a fire if they come into contact with flammable objects or surfaces. It is important to always burn incense on a heat-resistant surface and keep the area clear of any flammable objects. Never leave burning incense unattended.
Pure incense powders tend to be safer, and Japanese cones made of pure ingredients are considered relatively safe. However, it is important to note that even natural ingredients like resins are known lung irritants and some are carcinogens. It is always recommended to use incense in a well-ventilated area and to follow safety guidelines to minimise potential health and fire risks.
