Is burning incense healthy?!

Researchers have begun to suspect that incense burning may pose some health concerns. Because incense is a slow burn, many believe that it gives off a lot of chemicals such as carbon monoxide, aldehydes, and respirable particles. They are of considerable concern because these particles are both upper respiratory and pulmonary system irritants. This means that they can inflame mucous membranes, and cause asthmatic attacks in sensitive individuals.

Burning incense can also produce sinaldehyde, many different kinds of aldehydes, formaldehyde, acetaldehyde and acrolein. Both formaldehyde and acrolein are also mucous membrane irritants and acrolein irritates the eyes.

One study indicated that burning incense in your house at least once a week during pregnancy made it more likely that the baby would develop leukemia once your child is born.

There are things that you can do to minimize the health risks posed by incense burning.

?Using a type of incense that is less smoky.
?Don’t burn it for as long.
?Ventilating the room or building once you are done burning the incense.

I think like all things, use with moderation - where others may be affected, use with ventillation. Obviously there are better brands and quality - I have always found the cheaper the incense, the more irritation. The more expensive brands are made of all natural oils and fragrances, but smoke is smoke - it is going to be harmful. Really the best way to use incense is to burn it while out of the room to fill the space with a great odor...you don't need to breathe the smoke to get its benefits.

http://www.womenshealthcaretopics.com/bn_bodysoul_Incense.htm

I'm inclined to agree with your Mom - its not a natural fragrance.

your mom is right for your own safety.