I don’t know about you, but I’ve heard lately of so many people succumbing to the flu or this nasty stomach bug that’s been floating around. I’ve always been diligent about handwashing and keeping my therapy space clear of germs. As I scrubbed down the bathroom the other day, I got to thinking about how many of us use chemically-laden cleaning supplies—and the impact it has on our health.
When cleaning, our bodies absorb chemicals in two ways: by us breathing them in and by absorbing them through our skin.
Two Kinds of Chemicals to Avoid
- Antimicrobial chemicals: Inherently toxic, antimicrobial chemicals are designed to kill living microbes. While they effectively kill germs on surfaces, there is no evidence that killing germs (particularly in a household setting) is actually effective at keeping your family any healthier—and overusing can lead to a weaker immune system.
- Products that include “Danger” on their labels: Products like oven and drain cleaners often contain label language stating “Danger” or “Warning” due to their potential for causing serious skin burns and permanent eye damage. Inhalation of fumes from these products can also lead to respiratory irritation and breathing problems.
Possible Effects of Regular Usage
- Eye irritation
- Skin rash or irritation
- Asthma or other lung-related illness
- Poisoning, especially of children
What to Use Instead
- Look for fragrance-free cleaning products—or products which disclose the ingredients in their fragrances.
- Use antibacterial cleaners sparingly. Use them only for particular situations with a high chance of spreading infections.
- Wash your hands thoroughly throughout the day and before eating to prevent the spread of disease instead of disinfecting surfaces. Avoid touching your eyes and nose!
- Read the labels of the supplies you use. Pay attention to products that use the word “Danger” or “Caution.” Read instructions carefully on these products. Use protective eyewear and gloves as recommended. Wash your hands thoroughly after use.
Consider All-Natural Alternatives
You can create your own green cleaning supplies using these recipes or use those available through Young Living or doTERRA.
For example, Young Living’s Thieves® essential oil and doTERRA’s On Guard products consist of all-natural ingredients and no harsh chemicals! You can replace dishwashing detergent, hand soap, cleaning supplies, and more!
Thieves® essential oil blend was inspired by the legend of four 15th-century French thieves who formulated and wore a special aromatic combination of clove, rosemary, and other botanicals.
Questions?
If you have questions about how chemicals might be impacting your life, let’s chat.