When it comes to our health and wellness, we want only the best for ourselves and our loved ones. Perhaps you make sure to eat a healthy and balanced diet full of organic fruits and vegetables, and are keen to use household products that are “natural.” But what does “natural” really mean?
Unfortunately, the word “natural” gets thrown around a lot and we associate the word with “safe.” Just because something is labeled as “green” or “natural” does not mean that it is healthy to use as the FDA has given a lot of leeway in terms of what they consider to be suitable for humans to use. Many toxins are right on the label in plain sight while others are hidden under names like “fragrance” and “natural flavor.” When we are exposed to these toxins routinely via inhalation or contact with our skin, we experience negative health effects even if they aren’t immediately detectable to us.
Fortunately, there is something you can do! With so much information available to us, we as the consumer can make better choices and choose to use products (or make our own) that are not only effective but SAFE!
Common Toxins In Your Home:
- Phthalates: found in air fresheners, scented lotions, scented candles, detergents, dish soap, cleaning products, body washes, hair care products, plastics, and more. What it looks like on the label: “fragrance”, DBP, DEP, and BzBP. Phthalates are endocrine disruptors and can cause reproductive issues, asthma, and even cancer.
- Triclosan: an antimicrobial found in “antibacterial” soaps, liquid dish detergents and even toothpaste. Contrary to popular belief, this chemical can actually promote the growth of drug-resistant bacteria! Triclosan is believed to disrupt thyroid function as well as endocrine function. Did you know that when it mixes into waste water it can cause sex changes in aquatic life?! How scary is that?!
- Parabens: found in skin care and make up products as well as shampoo. They are used to extend the shelf life. Studies have shown that parabens can contribute to breast cancer, and also negatively effect the reproductive system.
- Formaldehyde: common in nail polish and in some bath products. It’s used to help prevent bacteria growth in products and is a known carcinogen!
- Heavy Metals: Lead and mercury are both found in cosmetics and are both harmful neurotoxins. Mercury is sometimes listed as “thimerosol.”
- Other common toxins to avoid: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)/ Sodium Laurth Sulfate (SLES), toluene, propylene glycol, DEA, synthetic colors, microbeads (plastic pellets), petroleum by-products, aspartame (recently renamed AminoSweet), ammonia, and so much more! With a quick Google search you can find a wealth of information about hidden toxins in our everyday products.
Luckily we have access to products and companies that truly care about our wellbeing and take great measure to ensure truth in labeling. Young Living is internationally revered as the premier name in essential oils, and they offer over 600+ products that include health supplements, personal care items, household cleaning products, and even product lines for babies and pets! The power of plants has been celebrated for thousands of years, and YL has reinvigorated the ancient tradition in a modern and applicable way. What you see on the label is what you get and you can trust that the ingredients are clean, responsibly sourced and filled with 100% therapeutic grade essential oils. Plus they are so easy to use! It’s time to ditch the toxins and live a healthier life!
Want to learn more about how you can support a healthy lifestyle for you and your family using Young Living products? We offer FREE Introduction into Essential Oil classes several times a month as well as special interest talks so you can feel confident about making the switch to green living!
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