Many people instinctively reach for a can of air freshener to mask unpleasant odors. But there are two problems with this approach.
One is that these sprays often smell worse than the odor, creating a real stink. The second is that these commercial “air fresheners” typically contain hazardous chemicals.
Air Fresheners Without Chemicals
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Since I’m trying to live a non-toxic lifestyle, I think I’ve found a better way to make my house smell nice. This is by burning pure frankincense resin. It’s healthy and very affordable. A number of people who’ve visited my home have told me how much they like this fragrance.
What’s often used to make the air smell “clean” is alarming. According to the New York City-based National Resources Defense Council, a large grassroots environmental group, many air sprays, liquids and solid plug-ins contain chemicals known as phthalates. These endocrine disruptors have been linked to birth defects.
In addition, these products may also contain carcinogenic compounds, such as formaldehyde and benzene, according to the NRDC, which is lobbying for more stringent regulations, in addition to labeling laws.
Non Chemical Air Fresheners
It’s been years since I’ve used artificial air fresheners. This includes scented candles. I used to love the “homey” smell of these colorful candles in the pretty glass jars. But that’s before I knew they were made from petrochemicals.
Actually, candles are a major source of indoor air pollution. As they burn, they give off fumes, similar to diesel exhaust. Needless to say, I never want these in my home again.
Right now, I don’t need candles. Even when company is coming over. This is despite the fact I have an elderly dog, and I don’t want people who enter my home to immediately know that.
There are a number of excellent natural ways to freshen your air, without potentially dangerous chemicals. In fact, they also have the potential to improve your health.
Here are some easy non-toxic fragrance ideas that really work.
Natural Organic Air Fresheners
Here’s one of my favorite ways to freshen the air.
Right before company is due to arrive, I take a piece of natural frankincense resin. I put it in a pan I no longer use for cooking and place it on the stove. Then I turn the burner on medium. Within minutes, an inviting, invigorating aroma fills the house.
Frankincense is a very healthy natural substance. There are even studies showing it can kill cancerous cells in the lab, while leaving healthy cells alone.
Burning drops of dried frankincense resin, known as tears, is the most cost-effective ways to make your house smell nice. I bought one package several years ago, and I expect it last for a few more years.
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Organic Essential Oils to Freshen Air
Essential oils are very potent. So they can easily fill a room with an invigorating or a calming, soothing scent, depending upon your mood. Plant Therapy has a line of organic essential oils, so you totally don’t have to worry about exposure to any sort of chemicals. Below you can see three popular choices from the company’s line of organic oils. I buy many of my oils from Plant Therapy because I know they’re thoroughly tested for purity. Largely because of Plant Therapy, as well as certain other companies that also sell incredible oils, I’ve pretty much stopped buying MLM oils.
Plant Therapy Organic Lavender
Plant Therapy Organic OrangePlant Therapy Organic Peppermint
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The easiest way to fill your room with the scent of essential oils is to put them in a diffuser. I’ve often done this when company is coming over. Even when we’re home alone, my family enjoys the clean scent of whatever oil is in the diffuser.
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If you aren’t sure which oil to use in a diffuser, pure lavender essential oil is always a good choice. This oil is also a natural tranquilizer, an added bonus after a hard day at work.
Non Toxic Beeswax Candles
As I mentioned earlier, scented candles emit toxins. In addition to the questionable artificial fragrances, most of these candles are made from paraffin. This releases toxic compounds as it burns. Paraffin is derived from petroleum, and the “wax” is a leftover from the refining process.
Beeswax candles, on the other hand, are all natural. It also appears they have the ability to actually clear the air, rather than pollute it.
One study found that people with asthma, exposed to beeswax candles for several hours before retiring for the night, had a marked decrease in symptoms.
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Disclaimer
These statements have not been approved by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
People with health concerns should discuss them with a doctor. Women who are pregnant or nursing should not use essential oils or frankincense, unless under the direction of a health care professional.
