Scented Candles, Air Fresheners Pose Health Risks

A lot of people are buying new fall-scented candles and air fresheners. But they could come with some unwanted health hazards.

Pumpkin Pie Spice, Apple Cider and Autumn Harvest are scents common this time of year for candles, air fresheners, and even gel tabs and incense. But a new study shows they could wreck your health.

The Daily Mail found all of these items could pose serious health risks like tumors, lung damage and asthma. The study finds air fresheners contain a high amount of formaldehyde which can cause nose and throat cancer.

Also, in 2013, a study of 2,000 pregnant women found those who had air fresheners in their homes were more likely to have babies with wheezing and lung infections.

If you burn incense, chemicals found in scents like frankincense can cause our DNA to change. Some types of incense, like sandalwood, are even more dangerous to us than tobacco smoke.

As far as scented candles go, once the flame is lit they can emit chemicals like formaldehyde and paraffin which can increase our risk for respiratory issues and even cancer over a long term exposure.

The National Candle Association says candles are safe to use and the company that makes and distributes Glade products says all ingredients in their products are safe.