For years, I adored lighting scented candles and incense sticks, the comforting glow, the gentle fragrance filling my home, the sense of ritual at the end of a long day. But as someone living with chronic illness and asthma, I began to notice something: the very things that were supposed to help me relax were often leaving me wheezy, headachy, and tired.
As a VTCT Qualified Complementary Therapist, I’ve always believed in the healing power of nature, but sometimes even I forget to look closer at what’s hiding behind our everyday comforts.
The Hidden Harm Behind Synthetic Scents
Most commercial candles are made from paraffin wax, a by-product of petroleum. When burned, paraffin releases toxins like toluene and benzene, both known to irritate the lungs and potentially disrupt hormones over time. For anyone with respiratory issues (like me), that invisible smoke can be especially harsh.
And it’s not just the wax, many “scented” candles are filled with synthetic fragrance oils that can contain phthalates and other chemical fixatives. These compounds cling to the air long after the candle burns out, contributing to indoor pollution that our bodies have to filter.
Then there’s incense, something I used to love for meditation and creating a peaceful atmosphere. Unfortunately, incense smoke can contain carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and fine particulate matter (the same kind linked to breathing difficulties and inflammation). The scent might seem spiritual, but the smoke can be anything but pure.
My favourite blend was always Nag Champa but recently I have been noticing the effects of this on my asthma symptoms so it had to go.
Choosing Natural Alternatives
Once I began learning more about how my body was reacting and formed the link, I made a gentle but powerful shift: replacing all of my petroleum-based candles and incense with natural beeswax candles and pure essential oils in a ceramic burner.
Beeswax candles don’t just burn clean, they actually help purify the air by releasing negative ions that bind with dust and allergens. The soft, honeyed scent is subtle but deeply soothing, and the golden flame feels almost sacred in its simplicity.
Aromatherapy oils allow me to choose what my body and mind truly need in the moment, whether that’s lavender for calm, sweet orange for energy, or frankincense for grounding. I use a few drops in my burner, and the natural scent fills the space without irritation or residue.
Creating a Toxic-Free Sanctuary
This small change has made a huge difference, not only to my breathing, but to how my home feels energetically. There’s a lightness now. A sense of clarity. And it’s empowering to know that I’m nurturing myself with tools that align with both my wellbeing and my values.
As someone living with chronic illness, I’ve learned that wellness isn’t found in grand gestures, it’s in the small, mindful choices we make every day. Choosing toxic-free, natural options is one of the simplest ways we can support our health and the planet at the same time.
So next time you reach for a candle or incense stick, take a moment to check what it’s made from. Our bodies, and our homes, deserve the purest kind of peace.
The Products I Used: (Ad-Aff)
Orange, Sweet Essential Oil 10ml
Ylang Ylang Essential Oil 10ml
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Love & healing hugs
With love & healing hugs
Wool Goddess 
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