Valentine’s Day, February 2007

Happy Valentines Day

What better way to say “I love you” than romantic candle light.

Speaking of candle light, did you know that paraffin candles, the kind most often sold, contain a “toxic stew” of paraffin, colorants, synthetically scented oils and lead wicks?
Paraffin is a petrochemical, “the final refining product extracted after asphalt. The grayish-black sludge is decolorized with 100 percent strength bleach, creating toxic dioxins. It is then further processed using more carcinogenic chemicals, tinted with synthetic colorants and artificially scented with chemicals producing chlorofleurocarbons (CFCs) – the gases eroding the ozone layer and contributing to the greenhouse effect.” As more of us use candles for relaxation and well-being, health officials are finding that the microscopic soot particles from candles, which penetrate deep into the lungs, are responsible for aggravating respiratory illnesses, especially for children who have faster respiration rates.
But there are healthy alternatives! Beeswax and soya candles do not have the health risks associated with paraffin candles. Beeswax is nontoxic and naturally aromatic. Soya candles are made from a natural, sustainable vegetable-based wax. These candles can be scented with pure, essential oils, which then result in health benefits rather than harmful effects. As consumers become more aware of the health consequences associated with the use of burning petrochemical-based candles, healthy soya and beeswax candles are becoming more available and lower priced.