Health Effects of Pesticides
If you use pesticides frequently or are around them often either at home, work, or elsewhere, you could be at risk of overexposure. Exposure to pesticides may result in [1]:
- irritation to eye, nose, and throat
- damage to central nervous system and kidney
- increased risk of cancer
If you’re not sure if you are being exposed to pesticides, here are some common symptoms to look out for:
- headache
- dizziness
- muscular weakness
- nausea
Chronic exposure to pesticides leads to much more dangerous symptoms. Being overexposed to pesticides can lead to damage to the liver and kidneys, disrupt endocrine functions, or even cancer [2].
Unfortunately, many homes in America have some form of pesticide or pesticide residue [1] in their homes, leaving many people at risk of exposure.
Homemade Pest Solution
Don’t worry, you don’t have to live with these unwelcome guests, nor do you have to roll the dice with your health by using conventional pesticides. A clean home is something most of us strive to maintain, but we can’t catch them all!
Here is a great recipe from Wellness Mama to use on those pesky pests instead of harmful insecticides. This recipe uses the power of natural ingredients like essential oils. While it isn’t meant to kill these pests, it is perfect for making sure they don’t come back.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of water
- 1 cup of white vinegar
- 50 drops of peppermint essential oil
- 20 drops of basil essential oil
- 20 drops of lemon essential oil
- Spray bottle
Directions
Combine the water, vinegar, and essential oils into the spray bottle. Seal the bottle and give it a good shake to combine all the ingredients. Spray it in the areas you notice pests are coming in, like windowsills or under doors. Make sure to shake well before every use.
Now you’ll be able to keep pests out while keeping you and your family safe from harmful chemicals from conventional pesticides.