Biochemical Assessment of Oxidative Stress Markers in Rats Following Exposure to Spray and Scented Candle Air Fresheners

Air freshener and scented candles are widely used to improve indoor air quality or eliminate unpleasant odors, but these consumer products release volatile organic compound (VOCs), particulate matter, and other chemicals that can adversely affect public health. This study evaluated the effects of air freshener spray and scented candle using a locally manufactured inhalation exposure chamber in Baghdad. Effects in rats were assessed with particular focus on the oxidative stress. A total of (40) healthy Wistar male rats, weighing between (180-200) gm, were randomly divided into 4 groups, each group containing 10 rats. The first group was exposed to air freshener spray, the second group exposed to scented candles, the third group exposed to mixture of air freshener spray and scented candle and the fourth group exposed to fresh air only. The inhalation exposure periods were (10, 20, 30) days for each group. The total exposure time was one hour daily, while the exposure time to the substance itself was estimated to be 15 minutes. Blood samples were collected from each rat, and serum was separated for biochemical analysis. Oxidative stress biomarkers (SOD, GPX, and LPO) were measured using ELISA kits, while GSH was determined manually using the Ellman method. The results demonstrated that exposure to the air freshener led to significant increase in GPX levels, while GSH concentrations were notably reduced. Additionally, the activities of antioxidant enzymes SOD and LPO were elevated compared to the control group. These findings indicate that such emissions can disrupt redox balance and may have toxic effects.