Why Natural Is Better

Can you count how many personal care products you used before you left your house this morning? Counting toothpaste, deodorant, shampoos, soaps, lotions, cosmetics and the like, probably dozens, at least. You assume they are safe, but they are NOT!

According to the FDA’s web site, “Cosmetic manufacturers may use any ingredient they choose, except for a few ingredients that are prohibited by regulation.” Very common chemicals– such as phthalates (pronounced THAY-LATES), parabens, formaldehyde, Sodium Lauryl Sulfates, Triclosan and fragrance chemicals – are allowed, even though they are known to be dangerous. Check your labels for these:

• Phthalates, common in shampoos and lotions, effect hormones, especially in developing children. Because they mimic estrogen, they are associated with PMS, fibroids, fibrocystic breasts and breast disease, and diminished sperm counts. They are on EPA’s “chemicals of concern” list, but are not banned and do not have to be listed.
• Parabens are very common in moisturizers, shampoos and conditioners, and many types of makeup. Parabens are regularly found in breast tumors, though no cause and effect has been proven.
• Formaldehyde is difficult to avoid in commercial products. It is a preservative. High levels are known to be toxic.
• Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) or Sodium Laureth Sulphate is a common foaming agent. It is used in shampoos, which is sadly ironic because it damages hair follicles and contributes to hair loss. This harsh chemical is a skin irritant and has been known to affect the development of children’s eyes, and is linked to the formation of cataracts. It is able to penetrate internal organs such as the brain, liver and heart with compounds that are known carcinogens. SLS has also been linked to damage of the immune system and may also be responsible for altering genetic information in cells. Bad stuff!
• Triclosan, common in hand sanitizers and dish soaps, as well as toothpastes and cosmetics, kills bacteria indiscriminately, including the good bacteria that protect our bodies. It contributes to the development of highly resistant strains of bacteria, known as “superbugs.” For this reason, it is banned in the state of Minnesota. Its effects on the human body include skin irritation, deactivation of sensory nerve endings, liver and kidney damage, hormonal disruption, suppression of the immune system, heart and lung damage, sterility, brain hemorrhaging, and paralysis. If swallowed, it can lead to death.
• Fragrance chemicals can result in headaches, rashes, allergies, reproductive problems, asthma and other health issues. The FDA allows the term “fragrance” to be used on a label to describe any of more than 3,000 chemicals that do not have to be tested. Keep in mind, Young Living therapeutic grade essential oils are not “fragrance” oils and do not contain these chemicals.

Why take a chance! Get on the upward spiral of health.  One-by-one, replace your personal care products with natural, essential oil based products that strengthen, rather than weaken, your body’s systems. Talk to Liz about a detoxifying strategy that can work for you, your family, and your budget.