Are scented candles killing you? Some believe that scented candles are useful for covering odors and also for aromatherapy. Others believe that scented candles, air fresheners, and certain oils are very harmful to the body and could kill you. So, what do scented candles actually do to your body? Smell is one of our most powerful senses. Melissa Breyer says: “What is clear is that we thrive on good smells; and it seems to me that we have been subtly weaponized into thinking that “fresh” synthetic smells are better than the natural smells of life” (Breyer). Many dangerous chemicals are commonly used in perfumes. When these chemicals are inhaled, it can cause central nervous system disorders, nausea, etc. Breyer explains, “The American Lung Association of Minnesota says that burning candles can release small amounts of toxins such as acetone, benzene, lead and mercury into the air. » (Breyer). Some believe that beeswax candles with cotton wicks are the safest option. Millions of homes across America contain scented candles. Most scented candles are made from paraffin wax which is derived from a petroleum byproduct such as crude oil also used in gasoline. Also used in products such as petroleum jelly, pencils and lip balm. April Duke points out: “Something like Vaseline, which we put on our skin, is disturbing enough; but consider the impact of burning this in your home and thereby releasing toxins into the air your entire family breathes” (Duke). Burning petroleum-based candles not only releases toxins, but also accumulates black soot in your home. Duke says, "The EPA even released a report citing petroleum-based scented candles as an indoor pollutant and advised caution when using these... middle of paper products." The next time you think about it, whether you buy that scented candle from your local store, you should also consider the impact it can have on your home and family. It might smell good now, but the added side effects just stink. Works Cited Breyer, Melissa. “Do scented candles make you sick? » Care2.com. Good Scents: Natural Perfumes, February 13, 2009. Web. November 12, 2013. Duke, April. “Could your scented candles kill you? » Yahoo.com. Shine and Lifestyles Network, October 16, 2008. Web. November 12, 2013. Goodwin, Jenifer. “Air fresheners and scented candles can cause allergic reactions.” Philly.com, November 6, 2011. Web. November 12, 2013. Hensley, Scott. “Clear the air: Scented candles can be irritating.” Npr.com, November 8, 2011. Web. November 12, 2013. Lambert, Victoria. “Does your perfume make you sick?” »dailymail.co.uk.Allergyuk.org, September 18, 2012. Web. November 12. 2013.