Top 6 Health Effects Of Air Fresheners

There’s a high level of awareness today about air pollution caused by industrial effluents, automobile emissions, and the like. But, did you know that some of the worst pollutants we are exposed to are part of our daily life in our homes?

One such culprit is the air freshener - yes, that same scented bottle you reach out for when you feel your home needs to smell good. Some people burn scented candles instead, while others use plug in devices. But, health risks of using air fresheners are many.

What are air fresheners made up of? They are made up of a variety of chemicals, many of which are toxic and are linked to a whole array of health problems. If you use the spray, then your air freshener uses aerosol action. Typical sprays contain artificial fragrances, aerosol propellants, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and more.

NATURAL AIR FRESHENERS YOU CAN TRY

Many toxic ingredients have been banned over the years through the efforts of concerned citizens. However, it is impossible to keep track of or fully comprehend the ill effects of these sprays. Let us take a closer look at the health effects of air fresheners.

General weakness

One of the health effects of air fresheners and prolonged exposure to them, therefore, is that it causes weakness that we may fail to associate with air fresheners, in anyone. Prolonged inhalation can cause nausea, headaches, nerve disturbances, and even depression.

Breathing difficulties

For people with asthma, air fresheners can be extremely harmful. Many air fresheners contain VOCs such as p-dichlorobenzene and formaldehyde, which are known triggers of respiratory ailments and allergies. Formaldehyde can cause burning in the eyes and nasal passages. Children, with their still-growing lungs, are especially at risk.

Reproductive problems

Air fresheners contain phthalates, which are compounds of phtalic acid. They are used in plastics to soften them, or as solvents for fragrances. Phthalates have been known to create reproductive issues during animal testing, extending the risks of using air fresheners. This will mess with our hormones making it a health risk of using air fresheners.

Developmental issues

Another of the health effects of air fresheners, again directly linked to the presence of phthalates, is that it can cause birth defects. Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers with high exposure to phthalates are more likely to have children with poor birth weight.

Hormonal imbalance

Hormonal issues are also likely to occur as one among the risks of using air fresheners. This occurs when you get exposed to sources of phthalates like air fresheners. Of course, research is still in its infancy in this regard, but it is better to be cautious.