Candles aren't just for birthday cakes anymore; millions of people use scented versions as home decorations. However, having them lit in your home constantly could be detrimental to your health over time.

Speaking on his new podcast, No Appointment Necessary, with TV presenter and co-host Cherry Healey, Dr Amir Khan claimed that some people might be exposing themselves to a health risk by burning their favourite candles too often indoors. However, he is not urging people to throw their beloved candles away.

The GP, who frequently appears on ITV shows like Loose Women, This Morning and Lorraine, said: "Burning one candle isn't going to kill you, but over time, if you are burning lots of candles, many days of the week, they give off something called volatile oxiditive compounds.

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"[These] are tiny particles that you can breathe in, and they can cause inflammation in your body. Long-term inflammation can cause long-term stress, and all of that is a cumulative build-up effect."

Cherry explained how "covering your house" with batches of scented candles might not be the best idea. Dr Khan agreed, but said people shouldn't throw away their favourite candles, and simply enjoy them in moderation instead.

In a Healthline report, a specialist claims that volatile organic compounds are found in lots of items, including natural things like flowers. Angelica Balingit, MD wrote: "VOCs are carbon compounds that easily turn into a gas at room temperature. Some VOCs naturally occur in flowers to produce a sweet aroma. Other VOCs, like formaldehyde and benzine, are potentially cancer-causing."

There is concern that prolonged exposure to particulate matter can lead to cardiovascular and respiratory problems. Particulate matter is a mixture of extremely small liquid droplets and particles that can enter your lungs.

A survey revealed that nearly 70% of UK adults used home fragrance products, with candles being the most popular option. As per the doctor's advice, lighting a candle every now and again isn't going to cause too much harm - so long as it is done safely.

People should burn candles in a well-ventilated space or use them sparingly to minimise the buildup of these compounds. It is possible to achieve similar scents in your home without using candles, instead opting for items like reed diffusers or essential oil diffusers to avoid the combustion process altogether.

Anyone who enjoys candles should follow the five important bits of advice from the European Candle Association. It explains the best and safest way to handle candles:

• Don’t burn candles in a drafty area.


• Trim the wick if it gets longer than five to 10 millimetres.


• Instead of blowing out a candle, use a candle snuffer or dip the wick in wax.


• Ventilate your room after extinguishing a candle.