Washington, Oct 22 (ANI): Spas offering aromatherapy may have elevated levels of potentially harmful indoor air pollutants like volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and ultrafine particles, according to a new research.
According to the study conducted by Taiwanese researchers, fragrant essential oils derived from plants, may release various VOCs into the air.
VOC degradation caused by the reaction of these compounds with ozone present in the air can produce small, ultrafine byproducts called secondary organic aerosols (SOAs), which may cause eye and airway irritation.
The researchers tested both fragrant and Chinese herbal essential oils for SOA formation in a controlled-environment study chamber under different test conditions along with performing air sampling and analysis in spa centres that offer massage therapy using essential oils.
They then compared SOA levels associated for the various fragrant and herbal essential oils tested and concluded that the layout and ventilation within a particular spa may affect the level of indoor air pollutants produced during massage with aromatherapy.
"Dr. Der-Jen Hsu and his colleagues have done a very nice job in bringing attention to often overlooked health risks associated with luxuries intended to enhance our sense of well-being," Domenico Grasso, PhD Editor-in-Chief and Vice President for Research from the University of Vermont, said.
The study has been published in Environmental Engineering Science. (ANI)
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