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In some cases, incense sticks can be seen as harmful. It is therefore important to use them correctly to prevent negative effects
This is why incense sticks can be harmful
Incense sticks are small, fragrant sticks that are traditionally burned in various cultures for spiritual, religious, meditative or aromatic purposes. Behind them are bamboo sticks coated with charcoal, oils and aromas.
- Incense sticks emit various particles and gases when burning, including fine dust, carbon monoxide and volatile organic compounds. If you inhale these substances indoors, this can lead to breathing problems. This particularly affects people with asthma or other respiratory illnesses.
- Some incense sticks may also contain compounds such as benzene. If you use incense sticks often and for long periods in your home and enclosed spaces, your mucous membranes may become irritated. Your airways will suffer as a result
- Some incense sticks also contain other chemicals such as synthetic fragrances. If you are very sensitive, this may result in an allergic reaction. This can lead to irritation of the respiratory tract, skin or eyes.
- Certain ingredients of incense sticks, in particular PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons), are repeatedly criticized for being carcinogenic. Long-term exposure to these substances can increase the risk of cancer, especially in people who use incense sticks regularly and over a long period of time. There are no clear findings to date.
- It is important to note, however, that these risks are very low when incense sticks are used occasionally. The concentration of fine dust in the room air, for example, is very low and still below the threshold value that affects your health.
How you should use your incense sticks
Whether incense sticks are harmful depends not only on the ingredients, but also on the correct use. The question is therefore not so much whether the incense sticks are harmful, but rather whether their use can have harmful effects. With the right knowledge about how to use incense, you can prevent harmful effects from developing.
- First of all, you should use your incense sticks primarily in well-ventilated areas. This can reduce the concentration of smoke and pollutants. The best way to do this is to open windows and doors to ensure good air circulation
- Choose high-quality products. Avoid incense sticks with artificial additives and chemicals. Trustworthy manufacturers that use natural and non-toxic ingredients include incense sticks from Goloka, NepaliGardens or the Swiss natural cosmetics manufacturer Farfalla.
- Good indicators for high-quality incense sticks are, for example, organic quality and fair production. You will sometimes find the Demeter and Fair Trade seal on the products.
- We recommend using sparingly. Smoke only occasionally and in appropriate quantities. Too long a burning time should also be avoided
- And finally: keep your distance. Make sure that the incense sticks are placed at a safe distance from flammable materials and that they are not left unattended while they are burning. You yourself should also not stand directly in the smoke of the stick
