Contents:

• Why is paraffin used to make candles harmful?
• Alternatives to paraffin candles

Candles are an integral part of evening relaxation, whether during an aromatic bath, a romantic dinner for two, a Christmas dinner with family, or a barbecue with friends. They create a unique atmosphere, and a candle-decorated festive table takes on a unique charm. Unfortunately, paraffin candles, the most popular and commercially available, can release substances that are harmful to our bodies.

Why is paraffin used to make candles harmful?

Paraffin is obtained by distilling crude oil, producing an oily, colorless liquid used in industrial candle making and the cosmetics industry. Unfortunately, burning paraffin produces toxic chemicals that are harmful to us and can cause health problems if inhaled regularly. Among the numerous toxins released when burning a paraffin candle are:

• Benzene - is carcinogenic, is inhaled over a long period of time, penetrates the bloodstream,
• Formaldehyde – irritates the respiratory tract and causes coughing,
• Phthalate – its regular and long-term inhalation can lead to the development of asthma and inhalation allergies, it is especially dangerous for small children and animals,
• Toluene – if inhaled over a long period of time, it can impair the function of the respiratory tract and cause, among other things, drowsiness, dizziness and skin irritation.
• Lead – can negatively affect the production of hormones, it is often used to prolong the production of wicks.

Alternatives to paraffin candles

Paraffin is relatively inexpensive, easy to produce, and widely available, making it popular with candle makers. However, despite their ubiquity and their tempting aromas, shapes, and colors, smoking them for approximately four hours, especially in an enclosed space, causes the substances produced during their combustion to become embedded in our bodies. Does this mean we should avoid burning candles? Fortunately, not. If we want to create a romantic, relaxing, or elegant atmosphere, we can opt for increasingly popular candles made from natural materials, such as:

• Soy candles , or soy wax, are made from soybeans. Certified natural soy candles contain no artificial additives, dyes, parabens, or heavy metals, and no harmful substances are released during burning. The wick of such candles is usually made of natural cotton. Scented soy candles contain natural essential oils and perfectly transmit fragrance. Their burn time can be even half that of paraffin candles. Smoking them does not cause headaches or drowsiness and is safe for children and pets.
• Beeswax candles are a natural and ecological product. They exude a natural, pleasant, and delicate scent and, at the same time, possess many valuable properties – they have antibacterial properties and ionize the air, neutralizing pollutants such as tobacco smoke. Through air ionization, beeswax candles purify the air of negative radiation from electronic devices and also help relieve the symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections, allergies, and asthma. Unlike soy candles, beeswax candles are not vegan.

By choosing natural and ecological products, in this case candles , we don't have to worry about our health when we want to enjoy the atmospheric light when meeting with our loved ones or relaxing alone.