It’s that time of year again. Time to air out the house and freshen your world. This is a ritual that dates back who knows how far. It always conjures up images of rugs draped over clotheslines being beaten with wire beaters. (I’ve never really seen anyone do that, but it’s my primary image.) Anyway, it’s that time of year! Before you get started, there are a few things you should be aware as you plan your strategy.

I just read a wonderful article in Andrew Weil’s “Self Healing” newsletter dated April 2008, and I’d like to share some information with you. Be aware that many typical household cleaning products have ingredients that are known to be health risks. Of special concern are artificially scented products and air fresheners with “fragrances” listed on the ingredients list; most are potential toxins such as phthalates-all are chemical compounds and you have no idea what they really are. A 2009 US study found that routine household cleaning can trigger upper respiratory symptoms and if you suffer from asthma, it could be worse. Another study done in 2007 involving 3,500 men and women in Europe, it was found that there is a direct correlation between the use of chemical household cleaners and the new onset of asthma in adults. And the more they cleaned or varied their products, the more the health risks increased. (And remember, there are children at home and pets, too.)

The article goes on to point out that the cleansers used were popular household brands and contained ammonia, chlorine-releasing agents, glycol ethers, and terpenes. Glycol ethers, found in some floor waxes and tile cleansers, and terpenes, common in pine-scented cleansers, emit toxins when they interact with ozone in the air–of great concern here in the Valley. Dr. Weil goes on to recommend that you use simple formulas made from familiar-and safe-ingredients like vinegar, baking soda and essential oils.

That sure makes Candice and I feel wonderful about our Herb’n Organics products!! For cleaning the basics in your home, all you need are our Arctic Blast, Peppermint Power and Oh, So Orange Furniture Frappe! That’s it! Just the BIG 3!! And you’ll love the fresh clean scent of aromatherapeutic peppermint essential oil.

You know, our grandmothers and mothers knew how to clean without chemicals. It all changed after WWll when the petrochemicals came home needed a market. They became fertilizers and pesticides. (Remember Rachel Carson’s “Silent Spring” told that story.) Then they became detergents and household cleansers..invading the home. And TV told us those products were necessary. (That was the main job of soap operas.) Now it’s time to get rid of all those nasty bottles hiding under your sink and lurking in the garage. You’ll have a lot more space and you’ll feet much, much better!!

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