Incense vs Scented Candles: Hiding That Dank Stank

Every weed smoker has their preferred method of hiding that dank stank. Sometimes, that method for getting rid of that unmistakeable weed smell needs to work fast.

The bowl’s lit, stinking up the space with the scent-sational aroma of that Mary Jane. And uh oh, the landlord just called asking to show the apartment. No matter how amazing pot smells, it’s not always an odor one wants lingering around. Sure, there’s always the classic method of exhaling through a toilet paper tube stuffed with dryer sheets or using a specialized filtration tool. Better yet, candles and incense can freshen the air. But which burnable solution masks that dank stank best?

The Case For Candles

As a light source and on birthday cakes, candles meet a bunch of needs. But one trip to an aromatherapy store shows their real value: scent. Candle scents range from floral and musky to delicious and inviting.

The magic of the experience relies on simple science. After lighting a candle’s wick, the flame melts the candle and draws up liquid wax. Then the heat vaporizes the fluid wax into a hot gas we perceive as scent. That air, made up of hydrogen and oxygen molecules, competes with the molecules from burning bud.

This process masks the odor but doesn’t get rid of it. Depending on the candle’s brand, age, and scent, it can fool the mind into thinking that ganja smell has disappeared.

That Sweet Scent of Incense

Like candles, incense gives a similar solution to the reek. Lighting a stick of patchouli or sandalwood can cut some odor after burning a J. But unlike candles which may only supply a pretty smell and a calming lit flame, studies say that incense can provide a next level high due to the chemical known as incensole acetate.

As a drug, incensole acetate is mild. But when compared to Valium, this chemical in incense was more powerful. Found in frankincense, Boswellia resin has been known to heighten the spiritual level of cultural and religious ceremonies. But it also supports anti-depressive behavior by activating certain brain channels. So if you’re smoking that sweet herb to elevate your mood, breaking out the incense could be helpful in that regard, as well as hiding that dank stank.

Final Hit: Incense vs Scented Candles: Hiding That Dank Stank

The added beneficial effects of burning either candles or incense might help those hoping to max out on their experience. But unfortunately, nothing in science proves either candles or incense work better than the other at reducing odors.

Research can declare this, however. Neither candles nor incense promotes good indoor air quality. According to the EPA, sources of particulate matter result from burning candles and incense. Candles with lead core wicks pollute the air. And burning incense has also been linked to illnesses like cancer and asthma.

So the best method to cover up that cannabis cloud, or even the scent of growing weed or making dabs, may not be candles or incense—if burning is required. Sprays like Febreze may seem a potential underdog in the sniff war, but they also transfer harmful chemicals into the air.

Instead, try an electric candle warmer. It doesn’t emit smoke or melt the wax by flame but burns the wax through a hot plate. So it just might be the sneaky solution to block out scent molecules still hanging out after toking up.