Are You Taking A Bath While Driving Your Car??

Well, I wanted to get your attention...   But the truth is, if you enjoy burning candles while taking a relaxing bath, then you are essentially burning the same kind of chemicals that you use when you drive a car!!

Maybe you are not someone who takes baths. But do you burn candles?? If you're like me, you love candles. I have them throughout my home in all shapes and sizes. They add ambience and warmth and I burn them throughout the year, but especially around the holidays and in the winter.

Who would ever think that candles could be harmful to your health?? Thankfully not all candles are, but that's why it's important to know which ones to choose. 

Paraffin candles (which are the majority of candle brands) are petroleum products! When paraffin candles burn they emit black soot and toxic fumes - similar to diesel exhaust! According to the Environmental Protection Agency, certain types of paraffin candles have also been found to discharge carcinogenic chemicals such as benzene and ketones.

And it's even worse if you are burning scented paraffin candles. In addition to the toxins from the paraffin, they are usually using synthetic fragrances and/or oils. These synthetic fragrances are also primarily derived from petroleum. Manufacturers are legally allowed to "hide" their synthetic fragrance blends so you don't really know what you are getting. These fragrances usually contain pthalates - these are known endocrine/hormone disrupters! Even if the candles say that they are scented with natural essential oils, sometimes they blend those oils with oils or perfumes that are synthetic. So, if you like to burn scented candles, please make sure that they are made with 100% pure essentail oil and are not made of paraffin.

Regardless of whether it's a scented or unscented paraffin candle, all paraffin candles are petroleumm based and contain toxins that are harmful to your health! The soot and fumes released by paraffin wax can be as dangerous as second hand smoke.

So what do you do if you love candles but don't want the toxins?? Don't give up! The safe and healthy alternative to paraffin is 100% pure beeswax candles. Soy can be another alternative but it's hard to ensure that the soy base is from a non GMO pure source.

My recommendation? Look  for 100% beeswax candles with cotton wicks. They are non-toxic and when they burn, they actually produce negative ions that help to clean the air!

Whether it's the food you are eating or the products you are using in your home or on your body, it's important to read your labels. The world we live in is full of chemicals. The best way to stay healthy is to stay educated and aware.

That's it for now. Until next time - Here's to the road that lies ahead. Here's to you!

Be well,

Tracy