Posted by Trina: October 18, 2011

Do you sneeze every time you walk by a candle store? Do you ever wonder what is in a scented candle? Well, after doing massive research I decided that in an effort to reduce the number of chemicals floating around my home, I stopped purchasing household necessities that contained artificial fragrances. Gone were the scented soaps, lotions, candles, cleaners. Everything switched to unscented, and I feel my life is better for it.

As has been pointed out in numerous scientific studies, fragrances are among the top five allergens in the world and are known to trigger asthma attacks. Fragrances often contain ingredients suspected of neurotoxicity and known hormone disruptor's. Many lotions and shampoos that list “fragrance” on their ingredient list actually contain phthalates, which may cause reproductive disorders.

Now that everything we use is unscented my family and I have developed a very strong aversion to anything with an artificial scent. If I use scented body lotion my skin now gets red and itchy. I have to assume that our bodies are no longer accustomed to the toxic effects. While we once were able to tolerate the hidden side effected associated with such dangerous chemicals, our bodies have since "flushed" them out. We are back to square one as if we were newborns again.

Still not convinced that fragrance-free is the way to go? The government does not regulate artificial fragrances and does not require manufacturers to disclose what ingredients make up any given fragrance. Why cover your body with a mysterious mix of chemicals and additives??? Help pass smarter, health-protective laws: Sign this petition to Congress to voice your support! Buying safer, fragrance-free products is a great start, but we can’t just shop our way out of this problem. In order for safer products to be widely available and affordable for everyone, we must pass laws that shift the entire industry to non-toxic ingredients and safer production.

You too want to get rid of artificial chemicals in your home but still like to smell fresh scents? There are many "natural" ways you can do that by opening a window to let the fresh air in, simmer cinnamon sticks, mulberry or lavender on the stove, or if you need a little pick-me-up try going outside and smell the flowers in your garden, take a whiff of basil or even the head of your child. There is nothing better then smelling your child.

What is your favorite way to get your home smelling clean and fresh using "All Natural Scents"?

Guest Blogger

Maureen Smithe Brusznicki is a wife, mother and friend to Mother Nature.  When she's not playing with her kids, experimenting with homemade cleaning products or coo k ing in the kitchen she likes to blog about living a healthy and simple life at Homemade Mothering.  Follow her on twitter and join her on Facebook