Anisha Riggs
Incense smoke contains particulate matter, gaseous products, and organic compounds, and has been shown to have harmful effects on health. The smoke can cause respiratory issues, skin irritation, and neurological problems such as headaches and forgetfulness. People with allergies may be sensitive to certain fragrances or synthetic additives in commercial incense, but natural, fragrance-free incense made from dried plant materials like sage or sweetgrass may be tolerated better. Hypoallergenic incense is also available, and some churches have started using it to accommodate parishioners with allergies or respiratory issues.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Incense composition | 21% herbal and wood powder, 35% fragrance material, 11% adhesive powder, and 33% bamboo stick |
| Incense smoke composition | Particulate matter, gas products, volatile organic compounds, musk ketones, musk xylenes, musk ambrette, aldehydes, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, diethylphthalate (DEP) |
| Health effects | Allergic contact dermatitis, respiratory issues, skin irritation, neurological problems (headaches, forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating) |
| Hypoallergenic incense options | Trinity Brand, Dew Fresh Premium Hand-Rolled Aromatherapy Incense Sticks, Autom Sacred Heart/Floral Blend Hypoallergenic Incense |
| Recommendations for allergy sufferers | Use fragrance-free, natural incenses, burn dried plant material (e.g., sage, sweetgrass), choose hypoallergenic incenses, ensure proper ventilation |
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What You'll Learn
Incense can cause respiratory issues and skin irritation
Incense smoke contains particulate matter, including volatile organic compounds, musk ketones, musk xylenes, musk ambrette, aldehydes, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and diethylphthalate (DEP). These pollutants can be inhaled and cause respiratory issues and skin irritation.
The particulate matter and volatile organic compounds in incense smoke can be absorbed into the bloodstream through the lungs, leading to elevated cord blood IgE levels, which are associated with allergic reactions. The PAHs released during incense burning have also been linked to an increased risk of cancer. In addition, the SO2 emitted during incense burning can act as a respiratory irritant and bronchial constrictor, contributing to cardiopulmonary issues.
Furthermore, incense smoke has been associated with an increased risk of asthma and other respiratory allergies. It can trigger chronic inflammation in the body, which may affect heart tissues and contribute to overall inflammation. Prolonged exposure to incense smoke may also result in higher concentrations of NOx in the lower airways, causing respiratory problems such as shortness of breath, coughing, and acute respiratory distress syndrome.
Some individuals may experience skin irritation, such as itching, dry or flushed facial skin, and scaling or itching of the scalp or ears. In rare cases, allergic reactions to incense can lead to anaphylaxis, with symptoms such as itching all over the body. It is important to note that the fragrance in incense may not be the sole cause of allergic reactions, as tiny particulates inhaled during prolonged exposure to incense smoke may also trigger these responses.
While incense burning has been a common practice in various cultures and religions, it is essential to be cautious about its potential health risks. Reducing incense use, ensuring proper ventilation during and after burning, and exploring alternative options can help mitigate these risks.
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Reactions can be severe, including anaphylactic shock
Incense smoke contains particulate matter, gaseous products, and organic compounds. The particulate matter produced by burning incense is greater than 45 mg/g, compared to 10 mg/g for cigarettes. The gaseous products from burning incense include CO, CO2, NO2, and SO2, among others. Incense smoke also contains volatile organic compounds, such as benzene, toluene, and xylenes, as well as aldehydes and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). These pollutants can have harmful effects on human health, causing respiratory system dysfunction and allergic contact dermatitis.
Some people are highly sensitive to incense and can experience severe allergic reactions, including anaphylactic shock. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening reaction that requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include difficulty breathing, a rapid pulse, a sudden drop in blood pressure, dizziness, and loss of consciousness. If you experience any of these symptoms after exposure to incense, seek emergency medical care immediately.
In addition to anaphylaxis, other severe reactions to incense are possible. Some individuals may experience skin irritation, such as itching or dermatitis. Incense smoke can also exacerbate existing health conditions. For example, people with respiratory problems may experience coughing fits and have difficulty breathing when exposed to incense smoke.
To accommodate those with allergies, some churches and religious celebrations have started using hypoallergenic incense, such as the Trinity Brand, which comes in floral, forest, and powder scents, with powder being the lightest scent. This type of incense is made with natural ingredients and is designed to be gentle on sensitive individuals.
If you know you have allergies or are sensitive to fragrances, it is essential to be cautious when trying new incense. Opt for natural, fragrance-free, or hypoallergenic options, and always follow the advice of your healthcare professional.
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Some incense contains toxic compounds
Incense is usually made of mostly natural materials, such as sage, resins, oils, and wood. However, incense makers have started adding more materials to enhance their fragrance, ability to burn, and ability to hold incense blend materials together. The smoke released has a sweet, pleasant smell. However, it can also contain particulate matter that you can easily inhale, which can have negative health outcomes.
The smoke from burning incense contains particulate matter (PM), gas products, and many organic compounds. On average, incense burning produces more particulates than cigarettes (45 mg/g burned compared to 10 mg/g burned for cigarettes). The gas products from burning incense include CO, CO2, NO2, SO2, and others. Incense burning also produces volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as benzene, toluene, and xylenes, as well as aldehydes, musk ketones, musk xylenes, musk ambrette, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). These compounds are toxic to the lungs and allergenic to the skin and eyes.
Recent research has found that indoor incense burning is associated with worse cognitive performance and decreased brain connectivity. The study tested 515 older adults and found that those exposed to indoor incense burning on a weekly basis experienced worse cognitive performance and decreased brain connectivity after three years. This may be because some of the toxic chemicals in incense smoke are associated with intellectual decline, accelerated cognitive aging, and an increased risk for Alzheimer’s Disease and vascular dementia.
In some cases, allergic reactions to incense can be more complicated than merely a respiratory issue. Some people have such severe sensitivity that they break out in an itching anaphylactic reaction all over their body. Other individuals suffer from Multiple Chemical Sensitivity syndromes, where symptoms are believed to stem from chemical exposures in the environment, such as incense, perfume, fragrant candles, and laundry detergent.
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Natural, fragrance-free incense is less likely to cause allergies
Incense is a common product used to fill a room with a pleasant aroma. However, some people with allergies or asthma may find that burning incense negatively affects their health.
Commercially available incense often contains synthetic fragrances that can trigger allergic reactions. These reactions can be severe, with some people experiencing anaphylactic symptoms such as itching and respiratory issues. In addition, the smoke produced by burning incense contains particulate matter, gaseous products, and organic compounds that can cause respiratory system dysfunction and skin irritation.
To avoid these issues, people with allergies may want to opt for natural, fragrance-free incense. Natural incense is made from plant-based ingredients and does not contain synthetic fragrances or chemicals. For example, some people report that burning dried plant material like sage or sweetgrass does not trigger their allergies, while commercial incense does. Natural incense typically has a softer, more subtle scent, and it does not produce toxic smoke.
There are several brands that offer natural incense products, such as Sea Witch Botanicals and Natural Choice Incense. These companies use essential oils and natural ingredients to create incense with therapeutic benefits and calming aromas. Their products are also vegan, cruelty-free, ethically sourced, and fair trade.
Overall, natural, fragrance-free incense is a better option for people with allergies as it does not contain the synthetic fragrances and chemicals that can trigger allergic reactions.
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Hypoallergenic incense is available
Incense smoke contains particulate matter, gaseous products, and many organic compounds. On average, incense burning produces more particulate matter per gram burned compared to cigarettes. The gaseous products from burning incense include CO, CO2, NO2, SO2, and others. Incense burning also produces volatile organic compounds, such as benzene, toluene, and xylenes, as well as aldehydes and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. These incense smoke pollutants can cause respiratory system dysfunction and allergic contact dermatitis.
Some people with allergies or asthma may be sensitive to certain fragrances or the synthetic compounds found in commercially available incense. If you experience allergies or asthma, it is recommended to opt for natural, fragrance-free incenses or burn dried plant material like smudge sticks made from sage or sweetgrass. However, it's important to note that your reaction may not be due to the fragrance but rather the inhalation of tiny particulates produced during incense burning.
Fortunately, hypoallergenic incense is available for those who wish to continue enjoying incense without exacerbating their allergies or asthma. One such option is the Trinity Brand, which offers five unique blends: Floral, Forest, Powder, Ethiopian Myrrh, and Ethiopian Frankincense. These incenses are designed to accommodate those with allergies or respiratory issues triggered by traditional incense. The Floral and Forest blends incorporate floral oils, with the former hinting at red rose gardens and the latter at green pine trees, while the Powder blend features powder resins with a hint of cool blue spice.
Reviews of the Trinity Brand hypoallergenic incense have been positive overall, with users reporting no negative reactions and pleasant fragrances. Some users noted that the fragrances were weaker than expected, which is likely a contributing factor to their hypoallergenic properties. The charcoal used to burn the incense should be fully lit and hot, and it is advised to avoid breaking up the charcoal near individuals with allergies or asthma.
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Frequently asked questions
Incense smoke contains particulate matter, gas products, and organic compounds that can be harmful when inhaled and cause respiratory issues. People with allergies should opt for natural, fragrance-free incenses or hypoallergenic incense, which are known to be cleaner and purer. Some brands to consider are Majesty, Dew Fresh, and Trinity Brand.
Allergic reactions to incense can vary from respiratory issues to skin irritation and, in some cases, severe anaphylactic reactions. Some people experience coughing fits, itching, headaches, and neurological problems such as forgetfulness or difficulty concentrating.
For people with allergies, it is recommended to use natural, fragrance-free alternatives or hypoallergenic incense. If you are using incense for religious or ceremonial purposes, you can substitute it with other elements representing the same, such as a fan or feathers.
