Why it pays to go natural

Chemicals are everywhere. They lurk in your shampoo, dishwashing liquid, plastic food containers, household cleaning products, cash register receipts… and even your lipstick. While you probably know that chemicals aren’t great for your health, you could be forgiven for wondering how bad they really are given their omnipresence in our daily lives.

Shockingly, recent research has shown that they could be as damaging to our health as cigarettes. In late 2015, two major international medical bodies issued warnings about the dangers of toxic chemicals in everyday products.

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals – or EDCs, including phthalates, parabens and bisphenol A (BPA) – are particularly worrisome. They interfere with our natural hormones, and a growing body of evidence ties them to infertility, diabetes, obesity, neurological issues, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, uterine cancer, prostate cancer and testicular cancer. Yikes.

Although it’s impossible to lead a completely chemical-free life, there are several simple ways to significantly reduce your exposure to toxic chemicals.

Switch to emu oil for all your beauty needs

Ditch your moisturiser, anti-ageing serum and specialised creams to treat skin conditions such eczema and psoriasis – all you need is a single bottle of all-natural, chemical-free emu oil. Because it’s deeply moisturising and rich in natural antioxidants and anti-inflammatories, it can help hydrate your skin and hair, combat fine lines, and soothe common skin complaints.

Refresh your first-aid kit

Instead of buying new tubes of antibacterial cream, insect repellent and anti-inflammatory cream to replace the expired ones in your first aid kit, use emu oil to prevent and soothe insect bites, reduce the inflammation of minor injuries, and treat skin wounds. You’ll reduce your exposure to chemicals and save money.

Use natural cleaning products

Harsh chemicals aren’t necessary to keep your home clean and free from bacteria. Try all-natural cleaning products instead, but read labels carefully to make sure the products you choose are really “green” rather than “greenwashed” with false environmental and health claims. You can also make your own household cleaners using natural ingredients such as vinegar, lemon juice and bicarb soda.

References:

https://www.wellbeing.com.au/body/health/10-ways-t...

https://mobile.nytimes.com/2015/11/29/opinion/sund...

http://www.abc.net.au/news/science/2017-05-20/endo...

http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/research-links-in...

https://www.hormone.org/hormones-and-health/endocr...

Photo Credits - @Odette&Co