Incense is burned in many homes for the scent, during meditation, or for a ritual moment. What is often overlooked, however, is that the smoke from a burning incense stick releases quite a lot of particles into the air, just like burning a candle or a cigarette.
What is in incense smoke?
Burning incense (often a mixture of plant resins, wood powder, and fragrances) releases particulate matter and volatile organic compounds. The Lung Foundation (Longfonds) explains that particulate matter and volatile organic compounds are key components of unhealthy indoor air. Research into indoor air quality indicates that the concentration of particulate matter in a room can rise significantly during and shortly after burning incense, comparable to or sometimes higher than that of smoking a cigarette. This does not mean that a single stick equals a structural health risk, but it is a reason to be mindful of its use.
Occasional versus daily use
With occasional use in a well-ventilated room, the increased concentration dissipates relatively quickly after the stick is extinguished. With daily use, multiple sticks at a time, or use in a small, poorly ventilated room (such as a bedroom or meditation room), the particulate load can accumulate. People with sensitive airways or asthma often notice this sooner than others. According to the Lung Foundation, prolonged exposure to unhealthy indoor air can also contribute to complaints such as chronic colds and respiratory infections.
Practical tips for those who burn incense
- Burn incense in a room that you can ventilate, and crack a window open during or shortly after burning.
- Limit the number of sticks you burn simultaneously.
- Do not burn incense in a small bedroom just before sleeping, as the concentration will have little time to dissipate.
- Opt for shorter sessions instead of letting a stick burn all day.
What else can you do?
Ventilation remains the most important measure, as it effectively removes the particles. An air purifier with a HEPA filter can also help to capture the particulate matter that remains in the air after burning more quickly. We recommend the Dynter AirPure Plus PA244, which features a sleep timer and night mode that are well-suited for use during meditation or in the evening. View the full range at dynter.eu.