Shampoos and Conditioners are Frequent Causes of Common Skin Problem
Dr. Mercola
Considerably more people than previously believed are allergic to the most common fragrance ingredient used in shampoos, conditioners and soap. In a study, over 5 percent of those who underwent patch testing were allergic to the air oxidized form of the fragrance ingredient linalool.
Linalool is found in 60 to 80 percent of perfumed hygiene products, soap and household cleaning agents that can be bought in the supermarket, so it can be difficult for people who are allergic to avoid these products.
In the study, oxidized linalool was added at patch testing for more than 3,000 patients who wanted to find out what was causing their eczema. Between 5 percent and 7 percent proved to be allergic.
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The emissions are also corroding air conditioning coils and electronic equipment, which is ruining electronics and could pose the risk of electrical fires.
The problem is so severe in South Florida that congressman Rep. Robert Wexler wrote a letter to the state’s governor asking him to declare a state of emergency because the health and safety risks associated with Chinese drywall are similar to the impact of a hurricane or other natural disaster.
Already at least four class-action lawsuits have been filed in Florida and others have been filed in California, Louisiana and Alabama. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is also investigating the complaints.
A String of Toxic Products from China
They’re widely known for producing affordable (cheap) goods, and in recent years have made quite the name for themselves as a producer of toxic goods as well. Aside from this latest revelation of toxic Chinese drywall, the United States has been grappling with a string of toxic disasters from China, which include:
• Pet food ingredients laced with toxic melamine
• Imported livestock quarantined for disease and banned chemical contaminants
• Catfish fillets from Chinese aquatic farms tainted with bacteria and heavy metals
• Dried apples preserved with a cancer-causing chemical
• Mushrooms laced with illegal pesticides
How Can You Tell if Your Home has Chinese Drywall?
Signs that your house may be affected include:
• Frequent repairs on your home’s air conditioning system, wiring or pipes
• Health symptoms including irritated eyes, respiratory problems, nosebleeds and headaches that resolve when you leave your home
According to the Web site of one law firm investigating potential lawsuits against the companies, builders and manufacturers responsible for the Chinese drywall problems, the problem may be related to the presence of iron disulfide (FeS2 pyrite), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), carbonyl sulfide, sulfur dioxide (SO2), and carbon disulfide (CS2) in the material.
If the Chinese drywall is indeed emitting hydrogen sulfide fumes, it could be a serious problem. The Web site continues:
If you suspect your home may be at risk, contact your state’s Department of Health, your home’s builder and also an attorney for help.
Other Toxins to Watch Out for in Your Home
For instance:
VOCs in the indoor air of new buildings have been found to average 20 to 40 mg per m3. Adverse health effects may begin with exposure at just 10 mg per m3.
• Certain pressure-treated wood products used for decks and playground equipment are treated with pesticides that contain arsenic.
• Engineered wood products commonly used to make cabinets, furniture, wall paneling and more emit pollutants such as formaldehyde into your home’s air.
• Foam furniture padding, mattresses and more contain flame retardants known as PBDEs, which are highly toxic and now showing up in breast milk.
This is truly only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the chemicals floating around most homes and office buildings.
In order for you to be truly healthy, your home needs to supply you with adequate opportunity to rest and relax. It needs to nurture, as it is only through this that you can truly recuperate at the end of the day and recharge with the strength to deal with the next day‘s emotional and physical stresses.
Unfortunately, many are now residing in homes that only add to their chemical loads and emotional stresses.
Is it Possible to Make Your Living Environment Healthier?
• Redoing a portion of your home with a natural material, such as bamboo flooring.
• Avoiding all chemical cleansers, air fresheners and detergents, and switching to natural varieties instead.
• Installing full-spectrum lighting to bring the benefits of natural sunlight indoors.
• Adding houseplants to your home and office.
• Getting outside to spend some time in a natural environment as often as possible.
You can also look into Bau-Biologie (German for "Building Biology").
The Bau-Biologie standard is used in Europe, USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand -- as a benchmark to professional and independent measurements in houses. The goal is to create an environment as close to nature as possible to best support your physical health and mental well-being.
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The Miracle Fat for Eczema—GLA