Many homeowners purchase lemon-scented candles and cleaning products because they make the house smell clean and good. However, a new study suggests that the limonene content of lemon-scented chemical products increases the risk of cancer development for those exposed to it.
According to a report from Medical Daily, the study was conducted by a research team from BBC working together with National Centre for Atmospheric Science chemistry professor Alastair Lewis. The purpose of the research was to study the possible harmful effects of lemon-scented products such as candles and cleaning products.
Over a period of five days, the research team took a sample of air in six different houses throughout York, England to look for different VOCs or volatile organic chemicals. The researchers found out that the VOC level that was dramatically high was that of limonene, an ingredient found in lemon-scented candles and cleaning products.
Although limonene is dangerous to be inhaled, it is relatively safe when blended with other chemicals. However, it is still possible for limonene to increase the risk of cancer development. "When it mixes with airborne elements in your kitchen, living room, or bedroom, limonene can become formaldehyde -- a carcinogen that burns the eyes, irritates the skin and stirs up coughing fits, nausea, as well as nose and throat cancers," says Medical Daily.
The researchers also studied about the ways to decrease formaldehyde in the air. They discovered that lavender, grub ferns, guava, Japanese royal ferns, spider ferns and squirrel's foot ferns are effective at decreasing the amount of airborne formaldehyde. They also advised people to check for limonene content whenever they try to purchase candles and cleaning products.
For pregnant women and those who are breastfeeding, WebMD says that limonene is safe if taken in food amounts. The site also advised pregnant and breastfeeding women to avoid using medicine with limonene because there are not enough information about its dangers as of the moment.
