Seamus Hammond
Incense is a product that creates a smell when burned, and it has been used by various cultures for thousands of years. While incense is not officially deemed a major public health risk, studies have found links between incense and certain health conditions, including an increased risk of lung cancer and high blood pressure. Some people have also reported feeling high or mildly stoned from burning incense, with the effects ranging from subtle to psychoactive. This could be due to the various plant substances used in incense sticks, the combustion process releasing carcinogenic compounds, or the simple pleasure of enjoying the aroma. However, it is important to note that liquid incense can cause poisoning if swallowed or sniffed, and it should not be directly inhaled.
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What You'll Learn
Liquid incense poisoning
Liquid incense is a product that creates a smell when burned. However, it is not meant to be sniffed or swallowed, as this can lead to incense poisoning. This can happen accidentally or on purpose. If someone has swallowed liquid incense, give them water or milk right away, unless a healthcare provider advises against it. Do not give them anything to drink if they are having difficulty swallowing.
The faster medical help is given, the better the chances of recovery. Liquid incense abuse is as dangerous as taking other illicit drugs and can even lead to death. It is important to be cautious when using any substance that emits smoke, as it can be accidentally inhaled. Recent research has revealed potential health risks associated with incense, including an increased risk of cancer, asthma, and heart disease.
It is worth noting that the term "liquid incense" is also used to describe herbal incense, which is burned to create a marijuana-like high. This practice is particularly prevalent in New Orleans, where it is sold in herb shops, convenience stores, and even gas stations under names like mojo, spice, or spice gold. While this form of "liquid incense" is sought after for its psychoactive effects, it is important to remember that any substance that alters the mind can also have dangerous consequences.
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Health risks of incense
Burning incense is a practice with deep roots in many cultures and religions. It is widely used for religious and cultural practices, including meditations, celebrations, and spiritual and ancestral worship. However, while it may have a positive impact on the human psyche, it also has several health risks.
Burning incense has been linked to various health issues, including respiratory problems, dermatological sensitivity, allergic reactions, and even cancer. The fumes released during the burning process contain harmful substances such as carbon, sulfur, nitrogen oxides, and formaldehyde, which are not fit for human inhalation. The particulate matter generated per gram of incense burned is significantly higher than that of cigarettes, at 45 mg and 10 mg, respectively. This contributes to indoor and outdoor air pollution and can lead to respiratory dysfunction.
In addition to respiratory issues, incense smoke exposure has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Studies have also demonstrated a positive correlation between incense smoke exposure and the risk of developing cancers, particularly lung cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified exposure to particulate matter as carcinogenic to humans since 2013.
Furthermore, incense burning can cause acute irritation of the eyes, throat, and skin. Working in temples, where incense burning is common, has been associated with a higher chance of acquiring throat and nose irritation compared to working in churches. A cross-sectional study in China found that incense burning was associated with weekly symptoms such as eye irritation, throat dryness, and skin irritation.
While the effects of different types of incense vary, some plants used in incense sticks, such as rosemary and hops, contain high levels of the terpene myrcene, which produces relaxing effects when inhaled. Citrus-based incense, on the other hand, releases high levels of limonene, a terpene associated with focus and concentration. However, these effects are minor and far from psychotropic.
It is worth noting that the health risks of incense burning cannot be overlooked, and healthcare practitioners should consider both the cultural significance and potential harms when counselling patients who burn incense. Recommendations to mitigate these harms include using electric incense devices, aromatic vapours, improved ventilation, and limiting burn time.
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Psychoactive effects of incense
Burning incense has been a popular activity for thousands of years, with ancient civilisations like the Egyptians, Babylonians, and the Chinese burning incense for religious and spiritual purposes. The practice continues to be prevalent today, with many people burning incense to enhance their meditation, elevate their mood, and relax.
However, despite its calming and mood-enhancing effects, incense smoke is a complex mixture of suspended particulates and harmful gases, which can have adverse effects on human health. The smoke contains irritants that can cause allergic reactions and irritate the eyes, nose, throat, and skin. Long-term exposure to incense burning has also been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer and high blood pressure.
In spite of these adverse effects, recent research has suggested that burning incense may have some psychoactive and therapeutic benefits. A 2025 study found that burning frankincense, a resin derived from the Boswellia plant, activates poorly understood ion channels in the brain, which can help alleviate anxiety and depression. The compound incensole acetate, found in frankincense, was tested on mice and was found to have a significant effect on areas of the brain involved in emotions and nerve circuits affected by anxiety and depression drugs.
While the psychoactive effects of incense may have positive implications for mental health, it is important to note that the smoke contains harmful compounds and should not be directly inhaled. Traces of contaminants may be present, and the combustion process creates carcinogenic compounds and other potentially harmful substances, such as carbon monoxide. Therefore, while incense can be enjoyed for its aroma and potential mood-enhancing effects, it should always be used safely and in moderation.
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Incense as 'legal weed'
Incense is a product that creates a smell when burned. The practice of burning incense has been used for thousands of years, with ancient civilisations such as the Egyptians and Babylonians utilising incense for mystical rituals, meditation, and prayer. Today, incense is often used to enhance meditation, pull the mind into the present moment, and elevate the mood—all of which can help to release tension.
While the effects of incense are usually subtle, certain types of incense can produce psychoactive effects. For example, incense made from the Boswellia tree, native to India, Africa, and the Middle East, unleashes a sweet and woody scent when burned and produces a set of molecules that have been labelled as psychoactive. Similarly, plants such as rosemary and hops contain high levels of the terpene myrcene, which has a relaxing effect when inhaled.
However, in recent years, a new type of herbal incense has emerged that is being marketed as "legal weed". Sold under names like "mojo" or "spice", this incense is not intended to be burned for its aromatic properties but rather smoked to achieve a marijuana-like high. While the sale of this product is unregulated, it is important to note that it is not without risks. As with burning traditional incense, smoking herbal incense involves combustion, which creates carcinogenic compounds and other potentially harmful substances, such as carbon monoxide. In addition, there have been reports of people, including teens, using this product due to its legal status and the perception that it is safer than marijuana. However, it is important to remember that just because something is legal does not mean it is safe. As with any substance, it is essential to be aware of the potential risks and to use it responsibly and in moderation.
It is worth noting that the effects of incense, whether traditional or herbal, can vary dramatically depending on the plant substances used in their creation. While some types of incense may have more potent effects than others, it is important to remember that incense is not intended to be smoked and doing so can be harmful. If one chooses to consume incense, it is important to do so responsibly and in a safe, controlled manner, being mindful of potential health risks and legal consequences.
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Incense and brain health
Burning incense has been a common practice for thousands of years, with ancient civilisations such as the Egyptians, Babylonians, and Chinese incorporating it into religious rituals and meditation practices. While incense has been traditionally used to create a pleasant aroma, concerns have been raised about its potential impact on brain health.
The process of burning incense releases various pollutants, including particulate matter (PM), carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), and volatile organic compounds. These pollutants contribute to indoor air pollution, with the amount of PM generated by incense burning reaching up to 4.5 times that of cigarette smoke. As a result, incense smoke has been linked to increased risks of respiratory conditions, cardiovascular issues, and even certain types of cancer.
Several studies have suggested a potential link between incense burning and cognitive decline, including accelerated cognitive ageing and an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. However, it is important to note that the mechanisms underlying these relationships are not yet fully understood, and more research is needed to establish causal relationships. For instance, it is unclear whether the cognitive decline observed in some studies is directly caused by incense burning or influenced by other factors, such as lower education, socioeconomic status, or lifestyle choices.
The effects of incense on brain health may also depend on the type of incense being burned. Natural incense made from plants like rosemary and hops can have relaxing effects due to the presence of terpene myrcene. On the other hand, citrus-based incense can enhance focus and concentration due to the release of limonene. However, it is important to note that these effects are minor and do not induce a psychotropic state. Additionally, burning incense made from synthetic materials, such as petroleum-based fragrances and potassium nitrate, may pose greater health risks than natural incense.
To minimise potential health risks, it is recommended to always use incense in a well-ventilated area and avoid direct inhalation of the smoke.
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Frequently asked questions
Liquid incense is dangerous and can cause incense poisoning if swallowed or sniffed. While there is no evidence that burning incense gets you high, some people report feeling mildly stoned or experiencing a marijuana-like high from smoking it. However, incense smoke contains carcinogens and irritants, posing health risks such as respiratory diseases and asthma.
Burning incense creates carcinogenic compounds and other harmful substances like carbon monoxide. Studies have linked incense burning to an increased risk of lung cancer and high blood pressure. However, the effects of incense vary depending on the plant substances used in its creation. Some incense sticks may produce subtle effects, such as relaxation or improved focus, due to the plant compounds they contain.
Liquid incense can be dangerous, especially if ingested or inhaled directly. It can cause incense poisoning, and in the case of swallowing, it is recommended to give the person water or milk unless advised otherwise by a medical professional. Burning incense also has health risks due to the creation of carcinogenic compounds and other toxic substances. These risks include an increased chance of developing lung cancer and respiratory issues such as asthma.
