Burning incense could potentially be harmful to health

A new study suggests that the traditional practice of burning incense could be harmful to your health.

As part of the UAE Healthy Future study, researchers at NYU Abu Dhabi used more than 300 Emirati volunteers to test the effects of incense on the microorganisms in the mouth.

A long term study will be undertaken, but if there's a potential for health issues, then according to lead author of the study, restricting the burning of the materials in public should be considered.

Dr Yvonne Valles, Lecturer of Genetics at the University of the West Indies, Barbados, explains.

A five-year study into the health effects of burning incense is planned and Dr Valles says long term research is important.