Many of  Americans set New Year’s resolutions every year that revolve around self- improvement. Many of us are also looking for healthy, natural alternatives. I don’t know about you, but if I had to choose between a product that contains natural ingredients and one that is full of chemicals; it’s kind of a no-brainer. If you have a household with children and pets, it’s incredibly important to be wary of what exactly is in the household cleaners you’re buying. There are a handful of hazardous chemicals that are linked to neurodevelopmental disorders.

Project TENDR is a unique collaboration of leading scientists, health professionals and children’s advocates, and environmental advocates.  It was formed in 2015 out of concern over the now substantial scientific evidence linking toxic environmental chemicals to neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder, attention deficits, hyperactivity, intellectual disability and learning disorders. Project TENDR released a scientific Consensus statement on July 1, 2016, as a national Call To Action to significantly reduce exposures to chemicals and pollutants that are contributing to neurodevelopmental disorders in America’s children.

Below are some of the common chemicals and pollutants found in consumer products.

  • Organophosphate Pesticides
  • Lead
  • Mercury
  • Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs)
  • Air pollution
  • Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCB’s)

As you can see, it’s extremely important to start using healthier cleaning products. More and more people are learning and incorporating essential oils into their lifestyle. There are several types of essential oils that are wonderful cleaning agents. Not only do these oils smell amazing, but they also have useful and practical benefits. Lemon is a powerful cleansing agent. You can create your own DIY cleaning solution of 5-10 drops of lemon oil, 1 cup of water, and 1 cup of vinegar can be used as a multi-purpose solution. Keep a spray bottle of this in the kitchen or bathroom for simple clean-ups.

Studies show that “out of 21 essential oils tested, 19 showed antibacterial activity against one or more bacteria.”

Oils with antibacterial properties

  • Cinnamon
  • Geranium
  • Lemon
  • Clove
  • Lime
  • Rosemary
  • Orange

Cinnamon oil has very potent, and powerful antibacterial properties. Many essential oils have been shown to possess antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral insecticidal and antioxidant properties. Essential oils are a rich source of biologically active compounds. Essential oils have been used traditionally all over the world, dating back to ancient civilizations. As early as 4500 B.C.E., the Egyptians used aromatic oils for medicine, perfume, and incense. The use of fragrant aromatic oils was first recorded in China between 2697-2597 B.C.E, during the reign of Huang Ti, the legendary Yellow Emperor. Ayurveda uses essential oils for healing and has been used in traditional Indian medicine for thousands of years. The use of essential oils has been around for thousands of years.

With the rise of health-related problems that are linked to hazardous chemicals being used in consumer products, it’s crucial to find better, and safer alternatives for our loved ones. Some of these hazardous chemicals have been banned by states, but this is much bigger than that. This is a national problem. Until more people voice their opinions, companies will still continue to use hazardous, dangerous substances, because it all comes down to money in the end.