Q:

What kind of candles are non-toxic and which ones should be avoided?

A:

Most candles, unless otherwise labeled, are made from paraffin, a petroleum product and fumes from paraffin wax have caused kidney and bladder tumors in lab animals. Also, many of these candles have a lead core in the wick to make it burn longer. The trouble is this lead releases into the air and we breathe it in.

I always look for beeswax candles with cotton wicks. A great place to find them is at your local farmers market or natural market. There are two types of beeswax: solid, which are dipped or molded and burn well; or rolled, made from sheets of beeswax and tend to burn more quickly. Another good choice is soy candles. Avoid artificially scented candles because toxic chemicals have been found in the by-products in the combustion of artificial scents. Instead choose true essential oils. Look for 100% essential oils, rather than “made with” essential oils. This could mean there’s only one or two drops of the real stuff and the rest is synthetic.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Green Living QA: How Do I Make The Bedroom Less Toxic?
Green Living Q&A Library
Everybody Nose: scent-sational essential oil blends to balance and heal.
What's the Alternative?: non-traditional tips for a healthy mind and body.