Ever stopped to think about what the most toxic and potentially harmful thing in your home might be?
A naturopathic doctor has explained that it’s actually something you “wouldn’t believe”.
Dr Pedi Mirdamadi took to TikTok to explain that the item in question is associated with allergies and itchy eyes, and can contribute to upper respiratory infections and asthma.
That item? The humble plug-in air freshener. “Many of these products contain toxic chemicals like formaldehyde as well as volatile, organic compounds, which enter our bodies through our breath,” he explained.
Dr Mirdamadi continued: “The air we breathe is the quickest and easiest way to get toxins into our body.” He closed with some bold advice: “If you have any of these plug-in air fresheners in your home or in your car – switch them off and dump them, especially if you’re experiencing any signs of allergies or asthma.”
He added an extra piece of advice in his video’s caption, penning: “Instead use an essential oil diffuser to freshen the home. Avoid this if you are a dog owner! Even if I get into an Uber and they have an air freshener plugged in I unplug it and kindly tell them I have allergies.”
The doctor invited his 464,000 followers to offer recommendations for alternatives, prompting one TikTok user to reveal: “I simmer orange peel, cloves, cinnamon stick and cranberries. It’s a much healthier alternative.”
Similarly, a second added: “I simmer fresh sliced lemons, thyme and water in a two quarter pan, on low. Cleans the air and smells so fresh and nice.” A third commented: “I simmer fresh rosemary from the garden, double up and use the water as a skin tonic or hair when cooled!”
How Stuff Works backs up Dr Mirdamadi’s advice, advising that as well as formaldehyde, air fresheners contain chemicals including petrochemicals, p-dichlorobenzene and aerosol pollutants that can pose health risks, particularly with continuous or high-level exposure.
The website adds: “Studies have linked the use of air fresheners to respiratory issues, reduced lung capacity and asthma aggravation due to the combination of certain chemicals and ozone-forming formaldehyde. While the Environmental Protection Agency has not issued advisories against air fresheners, they recommend careful usage.
“Alternatives like natural ventilation, baking soda, coffee grounds or lemon peels for odour elimination are better options for those concerned about health effects.”