You don’t have to be a germaphobe to know the importance of always having hand sanitizer within arm’s reach to protect yourself and kids from lurking germs. But, did you know that most hand sanitizer contain toxins like triclosan, triclocarban, and synthetic fragrance? More frightening than illness causing germs – these three hidden dangers will make you a convert to natural hand sanitizer and we provide an EASY, low cost, recipe below:
THREE HIDDEN DANGERS
#1: Antibiotic Resistance
A 2011 study by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention discovered that triclosan contributes to making bacteria resistance to antibiotics. Consequently, using hand sanitizer lowers your resistance to diseases by killing good bacteria, which protects us from bad bacteria.
Research by the University of Michigan School of Public Health also found that triclosan can harm the immune system. This makes people more susceptible to allergies, viruses, and ailments from toxic chemicals like Bishpenol A (found in many plastics). In the study, hay fever and allergies were diagnosed in all kids with higher levels of triclosan.
#2: Hormone Disruption
The U.S. National Library of Medicine and National Institutes of Health found that triclosan and triclocarbon may also lead to hormone disruption and cause bacteria to adapt to its antimicrobial properties, which create more antibiotic resistant strains. And, animal studies have found an abnormal change in hormone function when exposed to both triclosan and triclocarbon.
#3: Toxic Chemicals
‘Scented’ hand sanitizers are loaded with toxic chemicals listed as ‘synthetic fragrance’ in the ingredients. Companies in the U.S. are not required to disclose secret scents. These toxins include phthalates and parabens (banned in Europe!) that are proven endocrine disrupters that mimic hormones and could alter genital development and reproductive function.
So, if you don’t want to lather your hands and those you love with immune and reproductive system killing toxins, try this easy, alcohol-free, DIY recipe for a SAFE, all natural hand sanitizer alternatives:
ALL NATURAL HAND SANITIZER
Ingredients
- 8oz bottle with flip top or pump
- 6oz water
- 3 Tbsp non-GMO aloe vera gel
- 20 drops of tea tree, rosemary, eucalyptus, or clove bud essential oils
- 20 drops of either lemon, wild orange or grapefruit essential oil (optional)
Aloe vera and essential oils provide natural antibacterial and antimicrobial protection.
Directions
Start with the bottle (preferably recycled) or mixing bowl and add the water, aloe vera gel, and essential oils. Mix or close bottle and shake well. Pump or squeeze a dime sized (or less) amount onto hands, rub together, and repeat as needed when soap and water are not available. Enjoy!
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