TOXIC CHEMICALS IN YOUR HOME
Go to your kitchen, bathroom and laundry cupboards NOW. And get out ALL your cleaning and home-care products… do you know what is in them? How they impact YOUR health? The health of your family?
Through extensive research I discovered that your everyday home care products have ingredients that are detrimental to your health and through using them can result in you experiencing a multitude of health problems… e.g. skin issues, breathing issues, weight issues, allergies etc.
The first thing I found astonishing is that cleaning product companies do NOT have to list their ALL the ingredients on the label, just the ‘active’ ingredients. In some cases, they don’t even have to do this and just provide a website for you to do the investigating. However visiting their website often proved to be vague and unclear and having to Google Safety Data Sheets for the product.
Anyway, I have done some of the leg work here. Providing information of what is detrimental to your health and what isn’t.
You may want to grab a cuppa…. as this may take you 20-mins, or so, to read. But I am going so far as to say it is ESSENTIAL reading and your health depends on it. And I’m not being dramatic just for effect! Which I’ve been known to do!
You see, over time, the chemicals in your daily household products can build up in the body, in your tissues, organs and even whole-body systems e.g. Nervous system. These products (chemicals) have a profound effect on the Skin and Gut Microbiome, which can result in health issues.
Just spraying, or applying, these products ‘sometimes’ can trigger an immunological reaction resulting in headaches, skin rashes, sneezing, red watery itchy eyes, sore itchy throat, congestion, sinus problems, tightness in the chest and even difficulty breathing, and that’s just to name a few.
Here is what I uncovered: the DANGEROUS COMMON INGREDIENTS found in everyday cleaning products…
SODIUM DODECYLBENZENE SULPHONATE can be absorbed into the body by inhalation, irritating the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. Long term exposure may result in dermatitis. Found in kitchen and bathroom cleaning sprays and liquid cleaning agents.
SODIUM TETRABORATE DECAHYDRATE is basically borax. Commonly used in air-fresheners and cleaners. The jury is still out on borax. Good or bad? There is conflicting information out there. But inhalation may result in shortness of breath, sore throat, coughs and nose bleeds. In America, the FDA banned borax as an additive in foods. The European Chemicals Agency has named it as being ‘of very high concern’. I’ll leave it to you to decide.
FRAGRANCE is added to nearly all cleaners and air-fresheners so things can smell ‘clean’. What does ‘clean’ really smell like, I wonder…?? Anyway, companies do NOT have to list the source. Mind-boggling, hey? Something we use in our homes, day in and day out and there is no mention of what’s in it! Let’s look at what the research says. A 2007 study in the ‘American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care’ revealed that frequent use of household cleaning sprays is a risk factor for asthma as fragrances were found to linger in the air1. Another 2009 study conducted at the ‘University of Cincinnati College of Medicine’ showed long-term use of cleaning products is “recognized as a common cause of new-onset and aggravated occupational asthma” [2].
DIPROPYLENE GLYCOL BUTYL ETHER also found in Mace spray and brake fluid; and your household cleaning products – eek! The compounds can be absorbed into the body by inhalation and can result in irritation of the eyes, nose, throat and symptoms such as dizziness and headaches. Long term use targets the respiratory and central nervous system.
PROPYLENE GLYCOL can affect the… “Integumentary system (Skin), Urinary system (Kidneys) and Respiratory system (From Nose to the Lungs)”. According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry3. And knowing all of that, it is still approved for sale. Crazy?? YES!! According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Public Health Service Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry… “Propylene glycol breaks down in the body in about 48 hours. However, studies of people and animals show that if you have repeated eye, skin, nasal, or oral exposures to propylene glycol for a short time, you may develop some irritation”. I wonder what their definition of ‘Short-time’ is? Day in and day out??
SODIUM LAURETH SULFATE (SLES) a detergent and surfactant “causes eye or skin irritation in experiments conducted on animals and humans” [4]. This is a common ingredient in home spray cleaners, toilet cleaners, shower cleaners etc.
AMMONIUM CHLORIDE used in glass cleaning and bench cleaning sprays produces strong fumes that are potentially damaging to mucous membranes such as eyes, nose and airways.
HYDROCHLORIC ACID is found in toilet and shower screen/tile cleaners. It’s corrosive and its fumes can result in asthma like symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath and chest tightness 5. Skin contact can blister and burn skin.
TRICLOSAN is a common ingredient in antibacterial cleaners and hand sanitisers. Apparently, an individual can only absorb a small amount of triclosan through the skin or the mouth. However, in a 2004 study of participants aged 6yrs and older, Triclosan was detected in the urine of nearly 75% of the people tested 6. So, on one hand they say it is only absorbed in small amounts, but it is found in urine of nearly 75% of people. Wtf? Other research indicates that, “There is some concern that widespread use of triclosan and other biocides can alter antibiotic resistance in bacteria” [7]. Amazing hey, the very thing meant to keep pathogenic bacteria at bay may makes it stronger!
BENZISOTHIAZOLINONE is used as a preservative and antimicrobial in room air-fresheners. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) rates it as a HIGH concern due to its irritation to the skin, eyes and lungs. A 2013 study 8 showed that when combined with Citral and Triclosan (also used in cleaning products) had a negative effect on lung epithelial cells, inhibiting cell growth. The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (EU) says due to a lack of data it should not be used in personal care items. But apparently it is ok to spray around the home and inhale it?? Seriously??
Also, Formaldehyde can be used in small concentrations as a preservative in cleaning products and air fresheners. It can interfere with the ability to smell by coating nasal passages with an oily film.
I really could go on and on. There are a huge list of ingredients, but you get the picture, right?
And the effects of these chemicals on the Gut Microbiome have not even been researched yet but knowing its detrimental effects on the body it’s hard to imagine it doesn’t affect the microbiome, considering we are more bacteria than cells.
So, what to do?
BIN all your cleaning products – you and your family’s health is paramount here.
What to use instead?
The the cheapest and simplest cleaner is plain white vinegar. It’s simple, cheap and effective. And if trying to remove stains sprinkle some bicarb on the area, apply the vinegar solution and scrub. However, the bicarb/vinegar method isn’t suitable for many surfaces such as wood, leather, certain surfaces etc. and it can be messy and leave a residue!
So, what did I do?
Well with HEALTH and SAFETY being a priority for me and my family… I set off to work in my VOI studio and developed an alternative.
My aim… to develop an Organic Cleaning Do-it-all to replace ALL the cleaning products used in most homes. A product that is safe, non-toxic and highly effective on ALL surfaces that smells amazing and has (research proven) effective anti-viral, antibacterial, anti-microbial, anti-fungal, anti-infectious, anti-inflammatory, anti-parasitic and antiseptic properties.
After one-year of research, and a group of testing participants, the result was… OCD Spray … an Organic Cleaning Do- It -All that can be used on ANY surface from counters, to floors, to pillows and WILL clean, disinfect, sanitize, naturally deters pests and is 100% SAFE.
I also wanted to provide a concentrate to reduce waste, and allow the end user, to create varying strengths depending on what needed to be cleaned. And of course, for it to be affordable.
Here is the information, and research, about the ingredients used in OCD Spray …
CLOVE an antiviral, antimicrobial, antifungal, antiseptic, antibacterial and insecticidal properties. It kills mould rather than just bleaching it. The antiviral activity of clove oil is from a compound ‘eugeniin’. Its effectiveness is by the inhibition of the viral DNA while having relatively little effect on normal, uninfected cells. Clove oil has an anti-inflammatory effect on the respiratory system and can help clear the nasal passages. It is used as an expectorant (promotes the secretion phlegm) and has been used for centuries to treat various respiratory disorders. As a bonus, it’s an excellent natural Insect Repellent as its vapour is too potent for the olfactory senses of many insects. [16, 17, 18]
EUCALYPTUS is another oil excellent for relieving respiratory problem symptoms such as cough, sore throat, running nose, nasal congestion, bronchitis, and sinusitis. This wonderful oil – sourced right here in Australia – has antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial and antiviral properties. It has been shown to kill bacterial germs in the air keeping rooms clean and sterilized naturally. A 2013 study showed that in just 4-days patients treated with Cineole (Eucalyptus oil contains 60% cineole) “showed significantly more improvements of the bronchitis-sum-score than those of the placebo group” 9. Eucalyptus oil has been shown to be effective against Gram-negative bacteria including some antibiotic-resistant strains and has been reported to have antiviral activity [20, 21, 22]
LEMON has natural anti-infection, antimicrobial, antiseptic, antifungal and disinfectant properties. Lemon essential oil can be used on any surface as an all-purpose disinfectant and has proven antimicrobial properties on food-borne pathogens so it is excellent for spray cutting boards, counter tops etc after cooking as it is effective in preventing contamination from, and growth of, pathogenic bacteria. [25]
TEA TREE OIL (TTO) is sourced here in Australia (Melaleuca). It has antibacterial, antimicrobial, antifungal, antiseptic, antiviral, and insecticide properties. And if you’ve ever had a whiff of it you’d know why! Potent little bugger! Pathogenic bacteria and microbes lurking in your home don’t stand a chance against this oil. Evidence of Tea Tree’s anti-fungal and antibacterial activity is overwhelming. Tea tree oil is effective in disrupting the permeability barrier of cell membrane structures of microorganisms, with its activity being similar to disinfectants such as quaternary ammonium compounds. As a bonus Tea tree oil is a great insect deterrent. A 2011 study 10 concluded that TTO was effective as a deterrent to the different stages of the Australian sheep blowfly larvae. Not that you have larvae hanging around the home but you do have flies that lay larvae! The study showed that TTO aroma stimulated larvae to leave the wound, and its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties aided in wound healing. Virus titers (laboratory test that measures the presence and amount of antibodies in blood) were reduced significantly with Tea Tree Essential oil and results indicate that Tea Tree essential oil (and Eucalyptus oil) can affect the virus before or during adsorption, but not after penetration into the host cell. [10, 26]
ROSEMARY is touted as one of the most popular essential oils. Apart from its ability to boost mental activity, I am in love with its ability to help relieve stress. A Japanese 200511 study showed that it can decrease cortisol levels in saliva. Cortisol, our ‘flight or fight’ response to stress wreaks havoc on the body over time. So, by using the OCD Spray in your home you will probably feel a lot calmer But Rosemary’s wonderful effects don’t stop there. It works extremely well to remove bad odours (keep an OCD Spray in the toilet!!). Its inhalation has shown to improve the body’s immune response can increase the strength of the immune system and help and can help to ease symptoms of chest and nasal congestion, allergies, colds and flu. Another study showed that when mixed with other essential oils e.g. clove and eucalyptus, rosemary oil can be effective against particular viruses and bacteria. In one study it was shown to be effective against S. aureus and S. pneumoniae, two bacteria responsible for post influenza pneumonia (Chung & Huh, 2015). This dual activity could be of particular interest to treat influenza and also post influenza bacterial pneumonia infections, a leading cause of influenza-associated death23 The monoterpenes and phenols present in thyme, sage and rosemary essential oils possess noticeable antimicrobial, antifungal and antiviral activity. [11, 14, 19]
LAVENDER oil has superior antibacterial and antiviral properties but I think the stand out for this oil is its ability to calm the nervous system. Excellent for those of you that are frazzled from working or day, or from the kids. And for all you women who find it hard to sleep – good news – use your OCD Spray to clean surfaces in the bedroom because a 2011 study 12 showed that inhalation of lavender oil showed a significant decrease in mean heart rate (HR) which means the nervous system is significantly calmed by the inhalation of lavender which equals better sleep. Further studies show that many essential oils, such as lavender, can bypass the blood-brain barrier and deliver therapeutic agents to the brain13 exerting positive benefits on the nervous system. As an added bonus mosquitoes don’t like the smell so no more ‘mozzies’ flying around your ears at night keeping you up!! [11,12,13]
CINNAMON BARK has potent antibacterial, anti-fungal and antimicrobial capability that destroys and suppresses the growth of microorganisms mainly due to a compound, Cinnamaldehyde. Research shows that cinnamon oil has antibacterial action against S. epidermidis biofilm cells and compared to other essential oils shows a particularly potent bactericidal and significant inhibitory effect against P. aeruginosa, B. subtilis, P. vulgaris, K. pneumoniae and S. aureus. Cinnamon oil has also been shown to inhibit the growth of molds, yeast and bacteria. [16, 27, 28, 29]
SAGE is one of my favourite oils for cleaning. I love the aroma, maybe because it reminds me of Italian food. It has amazing properties… antiseptic, antibacterial, antimicrobial and antifungal. A 2007 Study 14 tested the antimicrobial activity against 13 bacterial strains and 6 fungi. It revealed that both Sage, and Rosemary, had important antibacterial activity against bacteria’s such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, S. enteritidis, and Shigella sonei. Making it an excellent addition to the OCD Spray. Also, its inhalation can help relieve congestion caused from colds and flu. The monoterpenes and phenols present in thyme, sage and rosemary essential oils possess noticeable antimicrobial, antifungal and antiviral activity. [14, 19]
THYME another oil I am obsessed with. Maybe food related too?? It has superior antiviral antiseptic, antibacterial and insecticide properties. But probably why I love this oil is because of its ability to inhibit bacterial growth. Thyme essential oil is a wonderful expectorant helping to ease congestion. Much like lavender it is also used in aromatherapy due to its stress-relieving abilities. As an insecticide, it targets moths that tend to overtake your pantry. Use OCD Spray to wipe down pantry shelves and keep the moths away. The monoterpenes and phenols present in thyme, sage and rosemary essential oils possess noticeable antimicrobial, antifungal and antiviral activity. [19]
Finally, there is a Solubiliser in the mix. Solubiliser is necessary as it combines the essential oils and the water you add, without it would separate and you’d get oil globs on surfaces. I use a Solubiliser that is 35% Alcohol.
So there you have it, information to make an informed decision about what to use in your home (and car) to clean.
If you think this information would be useful for family and friends please forward them the link. Thanks Nat xx
EDIT 2020… Lots of people have asked me… “Is OCD effective against COVID-19?”. I make no claim to treat any condition, specific bacteria or virus, but rather, present the facts from research. Recent new concerns are emerging about alcohol-tolerant bacteria and viruses. Over recent years, researchers have noted a steady rise in the number of serious infections caused by one particular drug-resistant bacterium — Enterococcus faecium — despite the wide use of alcohol-based disinfectants. [23]
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L.W., Cheng.S.L., Liu. C.F. (2012). The Effect of Lavender Aromatherapy on Autonomic Nervous System in Midlife Women with Insomnia. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Article ID 740813 http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2012/740813
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