
Scented candles sometimes used for aromatherapy can cause serious health problems. The chief culprits are candles with wicks made with metal cores-these candles emit lead.
Some candle makers use metal-core wicks because cotton wicks are often limp and fall over into the wax. Lead poisoning can lead to behavior changes and damage internal organs, especially the kidneys. Burning for metal -wick candles for 2 hours can result in airborne lead concentrations that pose a threat to human health. People with weak immune systems, including children and elderly, are particularly at risk...Take this advice:
- Watch out for shiny metal wire inside the wicks of candles. Opt for pure paper cotton instead.
- Keep wicks trimmed to one-quarter inch for more complete combustion, and keep candles out of drafts. Windiness blows more toxins into the air and causes inefficient burning.
- Watch out for slow-burning candles with additives (these candles often feel greasy to the touch). Instead, look for pure beeswax candles, which emit less pollution.
- For aromatherapy, put a few drops of scented oil in a defuser-a tray made to fit on light bulb. Or u can put the drops into some boiling water.
- Don't use candles in jars when the candle leaves a soot ring on the jar's lip. The soot may be an indication of lead dust.







