Be Careful
Agarbattis or incense sticks are an essential part of the prayer in every Indian household. Indians use it to make their house smell better for meditation or spiritual purposes. While it may smell amazing, it also contains harmful particles which can affect your health adversely. Scientists in South China University tested the different types of incense sticks. They discovered that the smoke produced by burning incense sticks contain harmful substances including genatonix (causes genetic changes leading to cancer), mutagenic (changes DNA levels), and cytotoxic (toxic to living cells).It contains harmful Given below are 5 reasons why you should rethink the excessive use of agarbatti.
Increases Asthma Symptoms
When the sticks are burned, they produce air pollutants and irritants, which may cause inflammation of the lung cells. The harmful substances in the smoke can aggravate the problem of asthma and lead to the development of COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease). A study conducted by researchers at the South China University of Technology and the China Tobacco Guangdong Industrial Company has found that the chemical present in incense smoke is more harmful than tobacco smoke. Also Read: Natural Ways to Prevent Asthma
Affects Heart Health
Excessive use of incense sticks can affect your cardiovascular health. A study reported that the regular use of incense sticks led to a 12% increase in the development of heart problems and the death. This happens because the agarbatti smoke can cause inflammation and affects blood flow. Also read: Hobbies to Keep your Heart Happy
Affects Babies
Exposure to incense smoke can also affect your child, even the ones in your womb. A pregnant woman should stay away from the smoke as much as possible as it can affect you and the unborn as well. According to a research published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, children exposed to incense smoke are at risk of developing leukaemia. Also read: What are the symptoms of Leukemia?
Causes Lung Cancer
Air pollutants present in the sticks can lead to the development of lung cancer. These pollutants cause irritation in the lungs and the smoke releases produce cancer cells in the windpipe.
Contract Skin Allergies
Studies have proved that constant use of incense sticks can cause allergy in the eyes, especially in kids and the elderly. People with sensitive skin when exposed to agarbatti smoke could develop skin allergies and some might contract dermatitis.
Prevention
A regular use of incense sticks for a long duration can have harmful effects, so avoiding them as much as possible is definitely a good idea. Steer clear of even their sight if you already suffer from lung problems. The best way to avoid getting sick is by reducing the use of incense sticks or by ensuring that there is ventilation where you are burning the sticks. Read more articles on Healthy Living. For more related articles, download OnlymyHealth app.
