Lance Carson
Burning incense is a common household practice in many cultures, but it is important to consider its potential health risks, especially when young children are present. While some sources claim that incense smoke is less harmful than secondhand or third-hand smoke, it still poses risks, particularly for infants and toddlers. Studies have found that exposure to incense smoke can lead to slower gross motor development in infants, with an increased risk of delays in achieving milestones such as walking with support. The smoke produced by incense contains various gases, including carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide, which can be dangerous for toddlers to inhale. Additionally, incense smoke has been linked to an increased risk of respiratory issues and other health complications. As such, it is generally recommended to avoid burning incense around toddlers, especially in enclosed spaces, and to prioritize their respiratory health and overall well-being.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Effect on health | Smoke is not good for the lungs, especially for babies. |
| Burning incense produces fumes containing gases like carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. | |
| Some types of incense contain formaldehyde. | |
| Arabic incense burned on a Dukhni signature burner is smoke-free, non-toxic, and safe for kids and pets. | |
| Effect on development | Infants exposed to incense smoke may show signs of slower development. |
| A study found that infants exposed to incense smoke took one to two months longer to develop gross motor skills. | |
| The same study found that babies exposed to incense smoke had a 44% higher risk of being slow to learn to walk with support, while periodically exposed babies had a 26% higher risk. | |
| Effect on asthma | If there is a family history of asthma, it is recommended to avoid exposure to incense. |
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What You'll Learn
Incense smoke and asthma
Incense smoke contains particulate matter, gases, and volatile organic compounds. The particulate matter generated by burning incense is greater than 45 mg/g burned, compared to 10 mg/g burned for cigarettes. The gases produced from burning incense include carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and others. The volatile organic compounds include benzene, toluene, and xylenes, as well as aldehydes and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
Burning incense produces fumes containing gases such as carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. In addition, incense smoke causes morphological changes in alveolar pneumocytes and infiltration of neutrophils into alveolar lumens. Activation of inflammatory cells can lead to airway inflammation and remodeling, which may contribute to asthma pathogenesis.
Recent studies have found that indoor exposure to incense smoke increases the risk of wheezing and asthma and is linked to impaired lung function in adolescents. Specifically, incense smoke exposure has been associated with elevated cord blood IgE levels, which is a risk factor for asthma. In addition, incense burning has been linked to delayed gross motor neurodevelopment in infants.
Therefore, it is advisable to reduce exposure time when in places with heavy incense smoke, such as temples, and to ventilate houses when burning incense at home. It is especially important to avoid exposing toddlers to incense smoke if they have a family history of asthma or other respiratory issues.
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Incense as an indoor air pollutant
Incense burning is a common household practice in many cultures, especially in religious rituals and for aromatherapy. However, it is also considered a major source of indoor air pollution, with the amount of particulate matter (PM) generated by incense being up to 4.5 times that of cigarettes.
The smoke released from burning incense contains various pollutants, including PM, carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), aldehydes, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Some of these compounds, such as benzene and formaldehyde, are known to have worrying levels, exceeding the guidelines set by the World Health Organization (WHO). Other compounds like acetaldehyde, acrolein, furfural, and furan have also been identified as having potentially harmful effects. These compounds are not only released during the burning of incense but can also be present in the incense products themselves, even before burning.
The health risks associated with exposure to incense smoke are significant. Studies have linked incense smoke exposure to increased respiratory conditions, cardiovascular mortality, and carcinogenicity. Long-term exposure to incense smoke and the resulting air pollution can lead to accelerated cognitive aging, intellectual decline, and an increased risk of Alzheimer's Disease and vascular dementia. Additionally, incense smoke has been shown to induce oxidative stress and inflammation, which can contribute to vascular dysfunction.
The type of incense product also plays a role in the level of pollution generated. For example, incense cones are more likely to be more pollutant than incense sticks, as cones tend to produce higher levels of certain harmful compounds. Furthermore, burning low-quality incense, especially indoors or in small spaces, can be particularly harmful to lung health over time.
To mitigate the risks associated with incense burning, it is recommended to increase ventilation by opening windows during and after burning. This helps to dilute the concentration of contaminants and reduce the risk of exposure. However, it is important to note that while natural and plant-based incense is often associated with improved wellbeing, the benefits of aromatherapy should not overshadow the potential dangers of incense as an indoor air pollutant, especially when used around toddlers or individuals with respiratory or health conditions.
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Incense smoke and slower development in infants
Burning incense around toddlers is not recommended, as it can negatively impact their health and development.
Firstly, incense smoke is an indoor air pollutant, containing particulate matter and gases such as carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. These fumes can be harmful to anyone inhaling them, especially young children with developing lungs.
Secondly, studies have linked incense burning in the home to slower development in infants. The Taiwan Birth Cohort Study found that infants exposed to incense smoke in the home took, on average, one to two months longer to develop gross motor skills like walking with support. The risk of developmental delays was higher for infants continuously exposed to incense smoke, but even periodic exposure during holidays and festivals was associated with a 26% higher risk of delays.
The effects of incense smoke on infant development are likely due to the presence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, lead, and other heavy metals in incense. These substances can impact neurodevelopment, leading to delays in gross motor milestones.
While burning incense may be an important tradition or ritual for some, it is important to consider the potential health risks, especially for vulnerable groups such as infants and young children. If incense is burned, ensuring good air ventilation and limiting exposure for infants can help mitigate some of the risks.
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Arabic incense as a safe alternative
Burning incense around toddlers is generally not recommended, especially if there is a history of asthma or hypersensitivity in the family. Studies have shown that incense smoke contains carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide, among other gases, which can be harmful to a toddler's health. In addition, a study from Taiwan suggested that household incense burning was associated with a delay in gross motor neurodevelopmental milestones in infants.
However, if you are looking for an alternative to traditional incense, Arabic incense, or Bakhoor, may be a safer option. Bakhoor is made from natural Arabic gum, also known as Frankincense, and comes in the form of wood chips or powder. When burned, it releases an earthy, aromatic fragrance.
One of the benefits of Arabic incense is that it delivers a clean and pure burn, reducing the amount of smoke and harmful particles released into the air. This can be especially beneficial for those concerned about indoor air quality and the potential health risks associated with traditional incense.
Arabic incense also offers a variety of fragrant options to suit different preferences. For example, Oud chips or bakhoor provide an earthy, aromatic experience, delivering the resinous smell of exotic Agarwood. There are also scented Oud chips available in a range of fragrances, including floral, soft floral, and oriental scents.
If you are considering using Arabic incense around toddlers, it is still important to use it with caution and ensure proper ventilation in the area. While it may be a safer alternative to traditional incense, it is always advisable to prioritize the health and safety of young children and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
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Incense smoke and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
Incense smoke contains fumes of various gases, including carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. It is a source of indoor air pollution, which has been associated with adverse health effects, particularly in infants and young children.
Several studies have investigated the impact of household incense burning on infant health and development. The Taiwan Birth Cohort Study found a link between incense burning and delays in gross motor neurodevelopmental milestones, such as walking with support and walking steadily. The study suggested that exposure to incense smoke may negatively affect infants' neurological development, leading to potential delays in their physical milestones.
Additionally, incense smoke, like secondhand tobacco smoke, can pose serious health risks to infants. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), secondhand smoke is a significant risk factor for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Infants exposed to secondhand smoke are more likely to die from SIDS than those who are not. The chemicals in secondhand smoke interfere with the brain's regulation of breathing in infants, increasing their risk of sudden and unexpected death.
Furthermore, incense smoke contains particulate matter and volatile organic compounds, which can have detrimental effects on respiratory health. Young children, especially toddlers, have a higher breathing zone, bringing them closer to the source of indoor air pollution. Inhaling incense smoke can irritate the respiratory tract, trigger asthma attacks, and increase the risk of respiratory infections in toddlers.
Therefore, it is generally recommended to avoid burning incense around toddlers and young children to minimize their exposure to harmful pollutants and reduce the potential health risks associated with incense smoke, including the increased risk of SIDS.
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Frequently asked questions
No, it is not recommended to light incense around toddlers. Burning incense produces fumes containing gases like carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. Smoke from incense is an indoor air pollutant and can cause respiratory issues.
Incense smoke has been linked to slower development in infants, with a higher risk of delays in achieving gross motor skills such as walking with support. It can also increase the chances of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Yes, there are smoke-free and non-toxic alternatives to traditional incense, such as Arabic incense burned on a signature burner. These alternatives are safer for children and pets and are better for the environment.
If you wish to use incense around toddlers, it is advisable to do so outside or in a well-ventilated area away from the child. You can also use a fan to redirect the smoke away from the toddler. However, it is always best to consult with a pediatrician or healthcare professional for specific advice and recommendations.
