A 2015 Chinese study warned that burning incense at home may put your health at great risk, including cancer, as the pleasant smell contains certain particles that are more toxic than those found in cigarettes. The study published in Springer's journal
Environmental Chemistry Letters found that incense smoke is potentially more toxic to a cell, and especially to its genetic contents. It was also more cytotoxic and genotoxic than the cigarette used in the study. Mutagenics, genotoxins and cytotoxins have all been linked to the development of cancers.
Read: 5 simple things you can do to reduce your risk for cancer
“Clearly, there needs to be greater awareness and management of the health risks associated with burning incense in indoor environments,” said lead researcher Rong Zhou from South China University of Technology in Guangzhou.
Research has shown incense smoke contains pollutants that may lead to inflammation of the lung cells, putting you at an increased risk of respiratory complications. And that's the reason why you start coughing and sneezing when there is any incense burning happens.
As stated above, the pollutants released from incense sticks can cause inflammation of the bronchial tubes that pass air to the lungs. A study done by the University of North Carolina found that incense smoke contains significant amounts of particles, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde and oxides of nitrogen, which lead to inflammatory responses such as COPD and asthma when regularly exposed.
Read: Five effective home remedies to treat asthma.
Burning incense sticks also increases your risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Research confirmed that people who use incense sticks at home regularly are 12% more likely to die of heart problems. They also had a 19% greater risk of having a stroke. These people were also 10% more likely to develop coronary heart disease.
Inhaling incense smoke has been linked to irritation of the eyes, particularly in children and the elderly. Also, if you have a sensitive skin, your chances of experiencing various skin problems are higher. Incense allergies can cause symptoms such as skin hives or dermatitis, etc. Extended exposure to incense fragrances can sometimes be life-threatening.
New Delhi: Burning incense sticks, or Agarbatti in Hindi, is an integral part of any Hindu ritual, without which, the puja seems incomplete. But, most people are unaware of the fact that these sticks, which fill the atmosphere with aromas, contain many chemicals - some of which may be harmful. A number of studies suggested that burning incense sticks can do more harm than good as it comes with a whole host of health risks, including genetic mutations, cancer, asthma and other respiratory diseases, leukaemia, heart disease, skin irritation, and neurological problems. Here, we have listed five reasons why you should say 'No' to incense sticks:
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