Synthetic fragrances are also made from petroleum based products. Just as when you purchase any essential oils and check for quality, you should use the same procedure when you purchase scented candles.

Beware if you can find no information about the type of scent used. Those who sell candles made from pure essential oils will be proud to share that information with you.

Soot from scented candles can be especially toxic. Even those labeled as aromatherapy candles (see above), can be culprits. In the last decade or so candle use has grown by leaps and bounds. They are among the most popular gifts and make wonderful decorative accents in the home. Unfortunately they can also kill you.

It’s hard to believe, but in our already polluted environment candle soot is actually contributing to air quality, and not in a good way. There are stories telling of furniture, painted or papered walls, and computers being seriously damaged. Anything we inhale invades our lungs and can harm us. People who already have lung problems such as asthma, lung cancer, pulmonary edema, or heart problems can be even more vulnerable.