Have you ever noticed, as you walk down the cleaning products aisle of any grocery store, that the whole aisle has a pretty strong smell even though the products are all sealed?

That’s a LOT of “fragrance” or “parfum” — which is how it typically shows up on the product labels.

The thing is, “fragrance” and “parfum” often contain really nasty components called “Phthalates” that are NOT listed on the label because they are EXEMPT from FDA labeling requirements.

Phthalates are INDUSTRIAL CHEMICALS that are used as plasticizers – meaning they soften plastics.

They have been shown to damage the kidneys, liver, and lungs, and more alarming, the reproductive organs of male fetuses in animals.

If they can soften plastics, just imagine what they might do inside your body! Do you REALLY want to inhale, or come in contact with something LIKE THAT?

Here are some places these culprits show up in your home, car, and office, adversely affecting your respiratory health:

• Household cleaning products
• Laundry detergents and fabric softeners
• Liquid dish and hand soaps
• Air fresheners
• Car fresheners
• Candles

For example, did you know that many scented candles pack a DOUBLE PUNCH:

1. Fragrances made with phthalates AND
2. Leaded wicks that leach harmful lead into the air you breathe?

Of course, phthalates also show up in personal care products, such as body wash, moisturizers, body sprays, and even lip care products –that come directly into contact with your skin.

If pleasing aromas are important to you, then the ONLY way to be certain you’re not being routinely exposed to phthalates is to Use products scented with ONLY 100% pure essential oils.

Start simple: replace one thing at a time, such as air fresheners.

Start by using one of the formulas on the Diffuser page. I recommend using about 12 to 15 drops of oil per 80 ml of water either in a diffuser or a spray to mist the area.

Spend a lot of time in your car? You may want to start there.

Here’s a great way to cleanse the air in your car: Car Aromatherapy Essential Oil Diffuser

Diffusing essential oils is a totally safe, non-toxic way to eliminate odors AND (depending on the type of diffuser you use), airborne bacteria.