This article was written by Vanessa Ryals, class of 2018.
The tingling aromatic scent of roses combined with the soothing trail of smoke that filled my room compelled me to burn through boxes of incense as quickly as a nicaholic. Little did I know, I might as well have been a chainsmoker.
In Eastern culture, burning incense is associated with spiritual cleansing and healing, but now scientists suggest it should come with a health warning.
A study published in Environmental Chemistry Letters found that burning incense releases fine particulate matter and volatile organic compounds (VOC) – two byproducts similar to the ones generated by smoking cigarettes. Research also linked excessive inhalation of incense smoke to various health disorders such as respiratory disease, cardiovascular disorders, cancer and lung-cell mutation.
Incense sticks are typically made from bamboo and are doused in essential oils to produce their distinct scents when burnt. The aforementioned study found that the VOCs produced by burning the oils cause changes in cell DNA and are more cytotoxic and genotoxic than cigarettes. At the same time, the toxins released were linked to the development of cancers.
While few things can replace the luxury of incense burning, there are plenty of healthier alternatives. Rather than potentially damaging your lungs, use an aromatherapy diffuser or water mist to achieve the same effect.
