Heidi Norton
Incense is often used for religious or meditative purposes, but it can be a source of conflict between neighbours, especially in apartment buildings. While some people enjoy the smell of incense, others can find it unpleasant, triggering, or even harmful to their health. The impact of incense smoke on others should be minimised by using it sparingly and infrequently, especially in enclosed spaces. Some people with respiratory conditions, such as asthma, can be severely affected by incense smoke, and it can also trigger migraines and headaches in sensitive individuals. In apartment buildings, the smell of incense can travel through walls and affect neighbouring units, leading to complaints and disputes. Proper ventilation and spacing out the usage of incense can help reduce the impact on others. However, if the issue persists, it may be necessary to involve building management or landlords to mediate and resolve the issue.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Neighbors' incense smoke can travel through walls and into other apartments | Yes |
| Neighbors' incense smoke can be smelled in hallways | Yes |
| Neighbors' incense smoke can trigger allergies, asthma, and other medical conditions | Yes |
| Neighbors' incense smoke can cause headaches | Yes |
| Neighbors' incense smoke can be mitigated by opening windows or using air purifiers | Yes |
| Neighbors' incense smoke can be a nuisance if it lingers for too long | Yes |
| Neighbors' incense smoke can be a problem if it affects others' health | Yes |
| Neighbors' incense smoke can be used to cover up the smell of marijuana | Yes |
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What You'll Learn
Incense smoke and ventilation
Incense smoke can travel through walls and affect your neighbours. It can seep into their apartments, causing issues for those with allergies, asthma, or other medical conditions. It can also trigger migraines and cause unpleasantness for those who simply dislike the smell. Therefore, it is important to be considerate and take responsibility for minimizing the impact of incense smoke on others.
To prevent incense smoke from affecting your neighbours, it is advisable to increase ventilation. Opening windows and doors can improve airflow and effectively dilute indoor air pollutants, reducing the risk of exposure for both you and your neighbours. Burning incense in a different room or outdoors, such as under a tree, can also help dissipate the scent and minimize its impact on others.
In addition to ventilation, burning incense sparingly and infrequently can reduce its impact on neighbours. Instead of burning the entire stick at once, consider lighting it for just a few minutes and then extinguishing it. This way, the scent will not be as strong and will dissipate more quickly.
Choosing a safer type of incense can also help minimize the impact on your neighbours. Opt for natural, plant-based incense without harmful chemicals, as it may decrease the amount of air pollutants released into the smoke. Smokeless or low-smoke incense options are also available, which can reduce the amount of particulate matter released into the air. Remember, the goal is to enjoy the benefits of incense while being mindful of the potential impact on others.
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Asthma and allergies
Burning incense can have adverse effects on individuals with asthma and allergies. The smoke released from burning incense contains particulate matter that can be easily inhaled and may have negative health outcomes.
For those with allergies and asthma, health problems from burning incense can pose significant risks to adults and children. A case study presented at the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) Annual Scientific Meeting in Boston in 2024 described an 87-year-old woman with a history of asthma and COPD who experienced unexplained shortness of breath. It was discovered that she burned incense daily as a way to pay homage to her ancestors. Despite the recommendation to stop burning incense, the patient refused due to its cultural and religious significance.
The particulate matter in incense smoke can trigger allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and even anaphylactic responses in certain individuals. A 2008 study examined the use of incense in religious practices in several Asian countries and suggested that allergic reactions to fragrance might be due to the inhalation of tiny particulates during prolonged exposure to incense smoke.
Additionally, burning incense has been associated with an increased risk of asthma and the development of respiratory allergies. Research has also linked incense smoke to chronic inflammation in the body, which can lead to oxidative stress and potentially affect heart tissues.
If you are experiencing allergies or asthma due to your neighbour's incense use, there are a few options to consider:
- Communicate politely with your neighbour: Explain your situation and suggest alternatives, such as using electric incense devices or aromatic vapours. Offer to pay for different types of incense to find one that doesn't trigger your allergies.
- Improve ventilation: Keep your windows closed or open windows away from the direction of the incense smoke.
- Use air purifiers: Invest in an air purifier to reduce the impact of incense smoke on your allergies or asthma.
- Compromise: Suggest a compromise, such as asking your neighbour to notify you before burning incense or limiting the burn time.
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Religious purposes
The use of incense for religious purposes has a long history, dating back to ancient times. Its origins can be traced to the Indus Valley Civilisation in 3600 BC, and it has been used in various religious traditions around the world, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, Shinto, and Christianity.
In religious contexts, incense holds symbolic significance and is often used in rituals and worship. For example, in Christian worship, incense is employed during the celebration of the Eucharist, solemn services, funerals, and other ceremonies. It is believed to symbolise the prayers of the faithful rising to heaven, as mentioned in the Bible, such as in Psalm 141 (140), verse 2: "Let my prayer be directed as incense in thy sight: the lifting up of my hands, as the evening sacrifice." Incense is also used in purification rituals and is associated with special occasions and festivals.
In East Asian Buddhist ceremonies and Chinese Taoist and Japanese Shinto shrines, incense plays an invaluable role. Worshippers light and burn sticks of incense, which they wave or raise above their heads while bowing to deities or ancestors. The sticks are then placed into individual censers, either vertically or horizontally, depending on the tradition.
While the use of incense for religious purposes is significant, it is essential to be mindful of others when burning it, especially in shared living spaces. Some individuals may have sensitivities or medical conditions, such as asthma or allergies, that can be triggered by strong scents. It is considerate to burn incense in a well-ventilated area or outdoors and to be mindful of the impact on neighbours.
If you are concerned about the impact of your incense use on your neighbours, there are a few things you can do. Burning incense for a shorter duration or in smaller quantities can help reduce its intensity. Additionally, cracking a window or lighting it in a different room can minimise its spread while still allowing you to practise your religious rituals. Communication is also key—discussing any concerns with your neighbours and finding a compromise that respects your religious practices and their comfort is ideal.
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Landlord involvement
If you are a tenant who enjoys burning incense, it is important to be mindful of how it may affect your neighbours. While you may appreciate the scent, others may not, and strong smells can travel through walls and into other apartments, causing discomfort or even health issues for your neighbours. Therefore, it is advisable to burn incense sparingly and infrequently, and to take steps to minimise its impact on others, such as burning it for only a few minutes at a time, cracking a window, or lighting it outdoors.
Now, what role does your landlord play in all of this? Well, it depends on a few factors, including the terms of your lease and the relevant laws in your area. Firstly, review your lease agreement carefully. Non-smoking sections of leases often include incense burning, as it intentionally produces smoke. Even if your lease does not specifically prohibit incense burning, your landlord may argue that it falls under "smoking". Additionally, keep in mind that burning incense is considered an optional behaviour, unlike cooking, which produces smoke unintentionally.
If your landlord receives complaints from other tenants about incense burning, they may ask you to stop, especially if it is causing discomfort or health issues. In some cases, landlords may be motivated to act to prevent potential liability. For example, if a tenant has a legitimate documented disability that is affected by incense burning, they may have protection under the ADA, and the landlord may be required to accommodate their needs.
On the other hand, if you are a tenant who is being affected by a neighbour's incense burning, you can approach your landlord to discuss the issue. However, keep in mind that your landlord's ability to intervene may be limited. They can try to mediate the situation, but ultimately, it may be up to you to take legal action if the issue substantially interferes with your use and enjoyment of your property. You may be able to sue for nuisance, but you would need to prove that it is more than just a petty annoyance and that it significantly impacts your property rights.
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Incense alternatives
Incense burning is often associated with spiritual fulfilment and New Age vitality. However, the truth is that incense smoke releases a carcinogen called benzene into the air, which can cause negative health effects. Short-term exposure to benzene can cause headaches and queasiness, while long-term exposure can lead to more serious illnesses such as leukaemia and lung cancer.
If you are looking for alternatives to burning incense, there are several options available that can provide similar fragrance benefits without the associated health risks. Here are some suggestions:
- Essential oil diffusers: Using an essential oil diffuser is a healthy and natural way to fill your space with fragrance. There are many different essential oils to choose from, such as sandalwood or frankincense, which are commonly used in meditation incense. Floracopeia is a highly recommended brand for high-quality, ethical essential oils.
- Oil burners: Oil burners are another alternative to incense burning that uses essential oils. Simply place a small cup or saucer over a mild heat source, add some essential oils mixed with water, and enjoy the fragrance.
- Non-burning incense: Some incense products, such as those offered by Soul Space, use natural ingredients and do not require burning, eliminating the smoke and ash associated with traditional incense. These non-burning incense blends can provide a delicate and lasting aroma without the negative health effects of burning incense.
- Candles: Candles infused with essential oils can provide a healthier and more natural fragrance compared to traditional incense. Look for candles made with natural ingredients and free from toxic chemicals.
- Homemade deodorizers: A cost-effective and long-lasting alternative is to make your own deodorizer at home using baking soda and essential oils. Simply drip the oils into the soda, shake, and let it sit. The scent will be released slowly over a long period of time, providing a mild fragrance that can last for weeks.
- Baking: Baking food in the oven, such as cinnamon apples, can fill your home with pleasant aromas that remind you of comforting meals with family. Just be careful not to burn the food, as this can release an unpleasant scent.
- Aromatic sachets: The Japanese tradition of placing small sachets full of aromatics in drawers and kimono sleeves is another way to enjoy fragrances without burning incense. Shoyeido offers aromatic sachets and body powders with natural fragrances.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on how your apartment is built and how often you burn incense. If you live in an apartment with thin walls, it is likely that your neighbours will be able to smell your incense. Some people suggest burning incense for only a few minutes at a time to prevent the smell from lingering.
You can try burning your incense for a shorter period of time, or burning it near an open window or door to allow the smoke to escape outside. You could also try sealing any gaps around escutcheons, the dishwasher, and bathroom fans to prevent air from travelling through interior walls.
If your neighbour's incense is bothering you, you can try kindly asking them to stop or to burn it less often. If that doesn't work, you can contact your landlord or building management to resolve the issue.
