Fact Check: Is Burning Incense ‘Turare’  Danger to Human Health?

Fact Check: Is Burning Incense ‘Turare’  Danger to Human Health? 

​Claim: A viral claim circulating on Instagram suggests that incense—referred to as “Turaren Wuta” in Hausa—poses a serious danger and significant threat to human life. 

This claim has garnered a lot  of reactions with 502 comments, 11.3k likes, 432k views and 19.8k shared the video with  many stating that it is true and unhealthy.

While incense burning is a cherished cultural and religious practice in Nigeria and many other countries, scientific research indicates that it can pose health risks, particularly with prolonged or frequent exposure.​

Incense has been burned for centuries across cultures for religious rituals, meditation, and to simply create a soothing ambiance. The fragrant smoke wafting from incense sticks can evoke calmness, spirituality, and nostalgia. However, behind the alluring scents lies a growing body of research that suggests incense may pose significant health risks—particularly with prolonged or frequent exposure which women specifically should be cautious of as they live with fragrance daily.

There is a variety of commercially available forms of incense, including sticks, joss sticks, cones, coils, powders, rope, rocks or charcoal, and smudge bundles.

Verification: Findings by PRNigeria Fact Check reveals that burning incense releases a mixture of particulate matter and gaseous pollutants, including:​

Particulate Matter (PM): Incense burning produces particulate matter at levels higher than cigarettes—approximately 45 mg/g compared to 10 mg/g for cigarettes. 

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Compounds such as benzene, toluene, and formaldehyde are present in incense smoke.

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs): These are known carcinogens found in incense smoke.

Further findings by PRNigeria Fact Check reveals that exposure to these substances has been associated with:​

Respiratory Issues: Increased risk of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other respiratory conditions.

Cardiovascular Effects: Studies have linked long-term incense use to elevated risks of heart disease. 

Cancer: Regular exposure has been associated with higher incidences of upper respiratory tract cancers, including mouth, throat, and lung cancers.​

Recommendation for Use:

To minimize health risks while respecting cultural practices:

• Ensure Proper Ventilation: Burn incense in well-ventilated areas to disperse smoke and reduce pollutant concentration.​

• Limit Exposure: Reduce the frequency and duration of incense burning sessions.​

• Use Alternatives: Consider electric incense burners or natural air fresheners as safer options.​

• Be Cautious with Vulnerable Individuals: Avoid burning incense around children, the elderly, or individuals with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.​ 

Conclusion: Findings by PRNigeria reveals that while incense isn’t officially deemed a major public health risk comparable to smoking tobacco as it remains an integral part of many cultural and religious practices, it’s important to be aware of the potential health risks associated with its smoke as many scientific researches indicate. 

Verdict: PRNigeria therefore concludes that claims that burning incense poses a significant health risk is TRUE. 

By PRNigeria