Cthey immediately create a muffled and cozy atmosphere, releasing enveloping aromas into the home: scented candles are the ideal furnishing accessory all year round. Yet many doubts surround them and an important big question: Are candles harmful to the environment? The answer is very clear: no, as long as you choose those with the right ingredients inside.
Ambient candles, from a symbol of heat to an emblem of harmfulness?
Atmosphere and heat VS harmfulness. While for many room candles are a symbol of well-being and they light them as soon as they can, for others they spread pollutants into the air that undermine their health. But is it true? «The candle immediately makes you feel pampered and can bring numerous benefits for health and well-being, or on the contrary, harmful effects. Well yes, even when buying candles it is important to choose natural products” explains Francesca Maffeo, naturopath expert in Chinese medicine.
It is therefore essential to choose candles made according to very strict standards and which do not contain harmful ingredients. For example which ones? «All candles based on soy, coconut and beeswax are perfect because they are natural products that do not undermine our health. In fact, being natural based they are Made with vegetable waxes that burn with less smoke and soot than other candles» explains Maffeo.
Another advantage of natural waxes is that they are biodegradable and green, therefore making them more environmentally friendly. So, without creating unnecessary alarmism, when it comes to candles you just need to choose the most suitable ones.
Harmful ingredients in room candles, what are they?
Which ones should you pay attention to, and therefore avoid, when it comes to harmful ingredients? «Some candles may have petroleum-derived components inside them which can release toxic chemicals into the air when burned. Other components to avoid are synthetic fragrances that may contain phthalates, known to be endocrine disruptors as well as irritating the respiratory tract and causing allergic reactions.” Furthermore, a detail not to be underestimated is also the wick: if made with lead or metals inside, these can release polluting particles into the air during combustion.
Another ingredient to pay attention to is paraffin: «Some studies show that paraffin releases volatile organic compounds such as benzene, acetone and toluene into the air, the same substances that are also found in diesel fuel emissions, household paints and dry cleaning chemicals, which are not entirely healthy. The harmful ingredients contained in candles can then vary depending on the type of candle and the materials used in their production, you must therefore know what you are purchasing and know the philosophy of the manufacturing company.”
Recognize them by their labels
In addition to knowing the company, it is essential also read the labels placed under the candles «where all the ingredients contained are obligatorily marked. And in any case It is also important to use candles safelytaking into account never leaving them unattended, keeping them away from flammable materials, animals and children and turning them off completely before leaving the room” concludes the naturopath.
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