Talc, one of the softest minerals, is used as an ingredient in bath and body powders and other household products. Although this common mineral seems innocuous enough, it can be poisonous if swallowed, cause skin irritation and may contribute to certain kinds of cancers. Up until the early 1970s, talcum powder contained naturally occurring asbestos. Legislation was passed requiring that the asbestos be removed from all talcum powder products.
Body Powders
Talc is most commonly used in body powders due to its ability to absorb and wick away moisture. It often appears in baby powders used in diapers to keep baby bottoms dry. Using talcum powder increases comfort in warm weather, absorbing perspiration and preventing chafing.
Household Uses
Talc is not only useful in body powders but can also be used around the household in a variety of unconventional ways. It is known that talc repels ants; sprinkling it around the outside foundation of the house helps to keep ants out of the home. Sprinkling talcum powder between squeaky floorboards stops the squeak. Just wipe up the excess after application. Talc absorbs bloodstains and grease on carpets and clothing. Sprinkle it on the stain and brush away after it has absorbed the spill. Talc also works well to loosen knots. Sprinkle it on a tightly knotted shoelace or on knotted cords and wiggle the cord until the knot loosens.
Dangers of Talc
Because talc has natural occurring asbestos, it can cause harm if inhaled, creating irritation to the lungs and bronchial tubes, according to Green Herbal Remedies. This is most common during mining and preparation of the mineral before any asbestos is removed. Although commercial talcum powders have had the asbestos removed, naturally occurring talc sold at some health food stores or available alternatively may still contain asbestos. The perfumes in talcum powders may cause irritation and allergic reactions to the skin, which is not a direct response to the talc itself. To avoid skin reactions, use unscented products.
Because there is concern that talc may be responsible for causing cancerous tumors, the FDA banned it from use in many cosmetics and beauty products, adds the Green Herbal Remedies website. Women, in particular, are vulnerable if they apply talcum powders to their genitals, where tiny particles can invade the reproductive system. The American Cancer Society has investigated these claims and reported on results of several studies stating there is evidence that talc may be implicated in some cancers. More research is necessary to verify these findings.
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