Going "green" has become popular, but there is more to becoming ecofriendly than simply buying organic food and buying a hybrid. The most toxic, chemical-laden environment most of us are exposed to each day is the home. The combination of modern building supplies, chemical cleaners and poor ventilation, especially in winter months, can lead to chronic environmental toxicity, which may contribute to health problems such as asthma, bronchitis, chronic illness and cancer.
Significance
Using the cleansing power of aromatherapeutic essential oils eliminates the need for harsh chemicals and toxic fumes within the home. Though harsh chemical compounds are effective at cleaning stubborn stains, calcification deposits and grime, they also bring known carcinogens, poisonous fumes and corrosive elements into bathrooms, kitchens, sleeping areas, play rooms and living areas. Killing germs and wiping away dirt has never been more toxic as a result of these "miracle" cleaners. Aromatherapy offers a safer, better-smelling solution without risking the health of your family. Essential oils should not be ingested or stored near homeopathic medicines.
Function
Author and master herbalist Rosemary Gladstar states that ecofriendly herbs and essential oils have been proven to clean effectively and kill harmful germs and bacteria while producing a pleasant smelling environment. They offer therapeutic benefits ranging from mood regulation and stress relief to illness prevention. Consult with a naturopathic physician or certified aromatherapist to evaluate essential oils of highest therapeutic benefit for your family's unique needs.
Types
Essential oils contain volatile oils, many of which are highly antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory. Some highly effective essential oils that can be diluted for cleaning "green" include basil, thyme, tea tree, pine, lemon, orange peel, lavender, geranium, rosemary, bergamot, cedar, clary sage, peppermint and cinnamon. Contact with volatile oils may cause temporary burning to mucous membranes.
Considerations
Because the word "aromatherapy" is a hot selling point for marketers, but something that simply smells nice may not contain actual therapeutic materials. In fact, many mainstream products claiming be aromatherapeutic use the same harmful chemicals that the green movement is trying to get away from. When opting to go green with aromatherapy, ensure your environmental safety by reading all labels. Products containing actual therapeutic-grade essential oils will list all essential oils as such. Essential oils are highly concentrated; dilute properly to prevent irritation to skin.
Potential
Because obtaining essential oils from plants is a complicated process, essential oils and the products utilizing them may be somewhat more expensive. However, according to author Matthew Wood, the savings will be realized with increased health, vitality and longevity that come from eliminating unnecessary toxins from your environment. In addition, due to the power of essential oils, you can use fewer products and less of them for additional savings. Like all cleaning products, essential oils should be kept away from children and animals to prevent accidental ingestion.
References
- "The American Holistic Medical Association Guide to Holistic Health: Healing Therapies for Optimal Wellness";Larry Trivieri Jr.; 2001
- "Essential Oils Desk Reference"; Essential Science Publishing; 2007
- "The book of herbal wisdom: using plants as medicine"; Matthew Wood; 1997
- "Rosemary Gladstar's Family Herbal: A Guide to Living Life with Energy, Health, and Vitality "; Rosemary Gladstar; 2001
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