As a mother to a pre-schooler, a pregnant woman and a Naturopathic Doctor when I venture out of Toronto into the great outdoors (or even out into our backyard!) I am very mindful of avoiding pesky insects – and also avoiding poisonous insect repellents!

The most common ingredient used in commercial insect repellents is DEET (N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide) – a solvent that is not recommended for use in children under 12 years of age or in pregnant women.

Natural Alternatives

Many plants have developed their own means of repelling undesirable insects and attracting desirable ones.  We can harness this evolutionary design for our own uses and make highly effective (and safe!) natural insect repellents from the essential oils of plants.

*Pennyroyal is toxic and should NOT be used on the skin of children, infants or pregnant women

Making Your Own Natural Insect Repellent

As you can see in the chart above, different insects are repelled by different chemicals, so you can make a highly effective repellent by combining a few different insect-repelling essential oils.

You will need:

10-25 drops (total) of essential oils
2 tablespoons of carrier oil or alcohol (good options include: olive oil, grapeseed oil, vodka)

Great White North Mix (Effective against mosquitoes, black flies and ticks)

Equal parts of:

• Cinnamon oil
• Lemon eucalyptus
• Peppermint
• Vanilla
• Lemongrass
• Geranium

Patio Power Mix (Effective against ants, mosquitoes, flies and wasps)

Equal parts of:

• Peppermint
• Lemongrass
• Vanilla

Mix the essential oils with the carrier oil or alcohol in a small spray bottle.  Spray the natural insect repellent onto skin, clothing, patio chair cushions, etc.  You’ll want to re-apply the repellent every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating.

Other Natural Insect Repellents

Citronella candles – offers moderate protection against mosquitoes.  A University of Guelph study found that sitting near a citronella candle resulted in 42.3% fewer bites.  May not be enough on their own, but can contribute to overall insect control.

Undiluted essential oils – select a few undiluted oils from the list above and add to candles for decoration and insect repelling.  Dr. Crystal Draper also recommends applying undiluted vanilla oil to the pulse points (wrists, neck, ankles) to repel mosquitoes with a pleasant smell.

Avoid floral scents – avoid using hair and body care products (including sunscreen) that have a floral scent.  Insects (especially mosquitoes and wasps) are attracted to these scents.  Consider mixing some of the essential oil mix above into your shampoo when camping or cottaging.

After the Bite

If you get bit, try applying tea tree oil directly to the bite.  Tea tree is antiseptic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and usually non-irritating.  Pure lavender oil can also be used.

Disclaimer

The advice provided in this article is for informational purposes only.  It is meant to augment and not replace consultation with a licensed health care provider.  Consultation with a Naturopathic Doctor or other primary care provider is recommended for anyone suffering from a health problem.

Select resources

Natural Standard.  “Insect bites and stings and related conditions.  Levels of scientific evidence for specific therapies.”    2011.

Barnard Donald R et al. “Laboratory evaluation of mosquito repellents against Aedes albopictus, Culex nigripalpus, and Ochierotatus triseriatus (Diptera: Culicidae).” Journal of Medical Entomology. 41.4 (2004): 749-57.

Consumer Reports. “Insect repellents: Which keep bugs at bay?” Consumer Reports. June 2006. 19 June 2006 <http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/health-fitness/beauty-personal-care/insect-repellents-606/overview/index.htm>

Fradin Mark S et al. “Comparative efficacy of insect repellents against mosquito bites.” New England Journal of Medicine. 347.1 (2002)13-8.

Ives AR et al. “Testing vitamin B as a home remedy against mosquitoes.” Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association. 21.2 (2005):213-7.

Kim SI et al. “Repellency of aerosol and cream products containing fennel oil to mosquitoes under laboratory and field conditions.” Pesticide Management Science. 60.11 (2004) 1125-30.

Lindsay L. Robbin et al. “Evaluation of the efficacy of 3% citronella candles and 5% citronella incense for protection against field populations of Aedes mosquitoes.” Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association. 12.2 (1996):293-4.

Park BS et al. “Monoterpenes from thyme (Thymus vulgaris) as potential mosquito repellents.” Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association. 21.1 (2005):80-3.

Rajan TV et al. “A double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial of garlic as a mosquito repellant: a preliminary study.” Medical and Veterinary Entomology. 19.1 (2005):84-9.

Trongtokit Y et al. “Comparative repellency of 38 essential oils against mosquito bites.” Phytotherapy Research. 19.4 (2005):303-9.

Tuetun Benjawan et al. “Repellent properties of celery, Apium graveolens L., compared with commercial repellents, against mosquitoes under laboratory and field conditions.” Tropical Medicine and International Health. 10.11 (2005):1190-8.

Xue RD et al. “Laboratory evaluation of toxicity of 16 insect repellents in aerosol sprays to adult mosquitoes.” Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association. 19.3 (2003):271-4.

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91% of Canadians have detectable levels of bisphenol A (BPA) in their urine according to recent data from the Canadian Health Measures Survey (CHMS).

This study represents the first time BPA levels were measured at a national level in Canada.  Urine samples from 5,600 Canadians aged 6 to 79 years were collected between March 2007 and February 2009 at 15 sites across Canada.

Canadian Teens Have Highest BPA Levels

The average Canadian has a mean concentration of urinary BPA of 1.16 micrograms per litre.  International studies have found similar results with mean concentrations ranging from 1 to 3 micrograms per litre.

Concentrations of BPA were highest in the teens – people aged 12 to 19 had mean concentrations of 1.50 micrograms per litre.  That is nearly 30% higher than the mean concentration.  Children aged 6 to 11 also had concentrations higher than adults aged 40 to 79.

Teens may have higher levels due to a higher intake of BPA-containing foods, higher intake of food relative to their body size, or due to absorption, metabolism or excretion differences.

It is of great concern that teens and children have higher levels of BPA than older adults because exposure to hormone-like substances during the different developmental stages of childhood and adolescence can cause permanent, lifelong changes in the way cells function.

What is BPA?

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an industrical chemical used in the production of polycarbonate plastic (for food containers and water bottles) and epoxy resins (most commonly used as a protective lining in canned food and beverages).  BPA does not occur naturally in the environment.

The main source of BPA exposure is from ingestion of foods in BPA-laden containers, although BPA is also found in drinking water, soil, dust, air, and consumer products.  BPA can migrate into food from food containers, especially when containers are heated, as well as from repeat-use plastic containers.

BPA has a short half-life in the body (less than six hours).  The finding of urinary BPA in 91% of Canadians suggests that Canadians are having continual and widespread exposure to BPA.

Health Effects of BPA Exposure

Studies are emerging that demonstrate negative health impacts from low level exposure to BPA, especially early in life.

BPA is a recognized endocrine disruptor (has hormonal impacts in the human body).  The structure of BPA is similar enough to estrogen (the predominant female hormone) that it can bind to estrogen receptors in the body and have effects similar to naturally occurring estrogen.

It is this similarity to the estrogen molecule that causes concern.  Although the level of BPA found in the CHMS study is low it is still a thousand times higher than natural levels of estrogen found in the body.

Some health impacts of BPA that have been proposed in scientific literature include:

• Reproductive toxicity – including effects on fertility and embryo development
• Permanent changes to the genitourinary tract
• Increased risk of breast cancer
• Early puberty in girls
• Increased prostate weight and increased risk of prostate cancer
• Decreased testosterone
• Hyperactivity and aggression
• Insulin resistance and type II diabetes
• Obesity
• Asthma
• Cardiovascular system abnormalities

Protecting Yourself and Your Family from BPA

Canada has been making headlines since 2008 when it banned BPA in baby bottles.  However, there are still no guidelines on the amount of BPA allowed into plastic bottles, aluminum cans, and other food containers that are the primary source of BPA exposure for Canadians.

In order to protect yourself and your family from the harmful effects of BPA the Environmental Working Group (EWG) have prepared a list of eight suggestions for minimizing BPA exposure.

1. Eat Fewer Canned Foods
   The easiest way to lower your BPA intake is to avoid foods that come into contact with the industrial chemical.  Choose fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables – which are usually higher in nutrients and taste better than canned foods!
2. Choose Cardboard and Glass Containers Over Cans
   When possible select foods that come in cardboard containers (such as Tetra-packed soups, juices and sauces) and glass containers.
3. Don’t Microwave Plastic Food Containers
   Polycarbonate plastic, used in the packaging for many microwaveable foods, can break down at high temperatures and release BPA.  Most polycarbonate containers are marked with a number 7 recycling code – indicating a BPA-containing plastic.
4. Choose Plastic or Glass Bottles for Beverages
   Canned juice and soda often contain BPA, especially if they are in cans lined with BPA-laden plastic.  Use a stainless steel water bottle for water, or a recyclable plastic water bottle which does not have the number 7 recycling symbol.  Plastic bottles with the recycling numbers 1, 2 or 4 do not contain BPA and are safer choices.
5. Turn Down the Heat
   To avoid BPA in your hot foods and liquids, use glass or porcelain containers, or stainless steel containers without plastic liners.
6. Use BPA-free Baby Bottles
   Canada banned the sale of BPA-containing baby bottles in 2008.  Glass, stainless steel, and BPA-free plastic baby bottles are the best choices.
7. Use Powdered Infant Formula Instead of Pre-Mixed Liquid Formulas
   Breastfeeding is best.  But if you must use a formula select a powdered formula over a liquid formula.  Liquid formulas contain more BPA than powdered versions.
8. Practice Moderation
   The fewer canned foods and beverages you consume, the less your exposure to BPA, but you don’t have to cut out canned foods altogether to reduce your BPA exposure and lower your potential health risks.  Eat less canned food overall, and limit your intake of canned foods that are high in BPA

Source: Environmental Working Group

As parents of children and teens, we can help to promote lifelong health by helping them to make healthy choices at young ages.  Encourage your family to eat fewer canned foods and decrease exposure to BPA by following the guidelines above.

References:

Bushnik T., Haines D., Levallois P., Levesque J., Van Oostdam J., Viau C.  Statistics Canada.  Lead and bisphenol A concentrations in the Canadian population.  Available online at: http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/82-003-x/2010003/article/11324-eng.htm.  Accessed August 31, 2010.

Environmental Working Group.  Bisphenol A: Toxic Plastic Chemicals in Canned Food: Consumer tips to avoid BPA exposure.  Available online at: http://www.ewg.org/bisphenol-a-info.  Accessed August 31, 2010.

Statistics Canada.  The Daily, Monday August 16, 2010.  Canadian Health Measures Survey: Lead, bisphenol A and mercury.  Available online at: http://www.statcan.gc.ca/daily-quotidien/100816/dq100816a-eng.htm.  Accessed August 31, 2010.

Statistics Canada.  Publications: Health Fact Sheets.  Bisphenol A concentrations in the Canadian population, 2007 to 2009.  Available online at: http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/82-625-x/2010002/article/11327-eng.htm.  Accessed August 31, 2010.

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360’s Commitment to Green

360 Health Care

Our front door may be red, but we’re green at heart here at 360!  As NDs we all took the Naturopathic Doctors Oath which includes a commitment to “preserve the health of our planet for ourselves and future generations”.  We wanted to share with you the ways in which 360 Health Care supports the health of the environment through our Commitment to Green.

Reduce Paper

• We purchase only 100% recycled paper to print invoices and handouts
• Handouts are printed for patients as needed, or emailed to minimize paper use
• Paper printed on one side is reused to send faxes or make notes
• Send emails rather than faxes whenever possible
• Recycle used paper and paper packaging
• Reusable towels provided in bathroom and kitchen

Conserve Energy

• Efficient heating and cooling of the clinic – we close the door in the summer when air conditioning is in use, and seal the windows in winter to prevent heat loss
• Periodic energy audit to ensure we are reaching energy conservation goals
• Replacing old light bulbs with energy efficient ones as they are burned out
• Minimize use of lights by enjoying the natural light provided by our lovely, large, south-facing windows
• Turn off the computer and printer at the end of the day

Clean Air

• Our Naturopathic Doctors cycle to work, walk or use public transportation
• Air purifying houseplants are kept in the office to clean the air

Natural Cleaning Products

• All natural and phosphate free cleaners are used for all cleaning in the office
• Laundry soap is free of phosphates, ammonia, naphthalene, phenol, sodium nitilotriacetate, dyes and fragrances and uses non-animal derived enzymes to ensure our linens and gowns are safe for sensitive skin – and to keep these harmful chemicals out of Toronto’s water systems
• Hand cleanser and hand sanitizer are organic, without artificial colors, synthetic fragrances or parabens and are not tested on animals

Environmental Responsibility

• Soy based inks to print business cards
• Recycle printer and fax toner cartridges
• Reusable cups are provided for patients and practitioners
• Organic and fair-trade teas are available for everyone’s enjoyment
• Commitment to limit the prescription of endangered medicinal plants

Our Naturopathic Doctors are committed to supporting the health of our patients and our planet.  We hope we can inspire you to make your life and your home naturally healthy.

And if you have any inspiring ideas for us – please share them!  We love to hear what others in our community are doing to support the Earth.

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Gerbera Daisy - Gerbera jamesonii

Living indoor plants add a natural beauty to our homes and workplaces and offer a welcome glimpse of green in the depths of a Canadian winter, but did you know they can also purify the air we breathe and contribute to a healthy home and office?

NASA’s Plant Program

In the late 1980s NASA researchers began looking at houseplants as a potential means of cleansing the atmosphere in future space stations. They discovered that many common houseplants help diminish indoor air pollution by removing harmful gases from the air, through the simple processes of photosynthesis. Other pollutants are absorbed by the plants and rendered harmless in the soil.

Plants are known to absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen but the NASA researchers found that many houseplants are also able to absorb benzene, formaldehyde and tricholoroethylene.

Bamboo Palm - Chamaedorea sefritzii

Indoor Air Pollutants and Sick Building Syndrome

These three chemicals (benzene, formaldehyde and trichloroethylene) are among the most common airborne pollutants in new homes and offices. Newer buildings are constructed largely with synthetic materials containing these and other harmful materials which are known to “off-gas” pollutants into the indoor air. This “off-gassing” combined with heavily insulated buildings and reduced fresh air exchange resulted in an increased incidence of “sick building syndrome” (SBS), a medical syndrome associated with indoor air pollution and diminished air circulation.

Symptoms of SBS range from specific symptoms such as itchy eyes, skin rashes, and nasal allergy symptoms, to more vague symptoms such as fatigue, aches and pains, and sensitivity to odours. See Table 1 for symptoms associated with the different indoor air pollutants.

Table 1: Indoor Air Pollutants – Sources and Symptoms of Exposure

Shade Loving Plants – The Best Air Purifiers

The plants NASA determined to be most effective in purifying indoor air are plants that evolved in tropical or sub-tropical forests, where they received light filtered through the branches of taller trees.

Because of the low-light conditions in their natural environment these plants became very efficient photosynthesizers. They are able to absorb and neutralize gases in the air easily with only indirect sunlight. This feature also makes them excellent indoor plants because they don’t require direct sunlight to thrive and grow.

Allowing air to contact the soil increases the amount of air pollution that will be processed by the houseplants. Micro-organisms in the soil use trace amounts of airborne chemicals as a food source. Their effectiveness is increased if lower leaves that cover the soil surface are removed, allowing more air to contact the soil surface.

Choosing an Indoor Houseplant

Snake Plant or "Mother-in-law's tongue"

The NASA studies recommend that you use 1 good-sized houseplant in a 6 to 8-inch diameter container for each 100 square feet of indoor space. A more heavily polluted environment would require a greater number of plants. And the better they grow, the better job they will do purifying the air for you!

The plants found to be most effective at cleansing indoor air pollution by NASA scientists are:

• Hedera helix – English ivy
• Chlorophytum comosum – Spider plant
• Epipiremnum aureum – Golden pothos
• Spathiphyllum ‘Mauna Loa’ – Peace lily
• Aglaonema modestum – Chinese evergreen
• Chamaedorea sefritzii – Bamboo or reed palm
• Sansevieria trifasciata – Snake plant or Mother-in-law’s tongue
• Philodendron scandens ‘oxycardium’ – Heartleaf philodendron
• Philodendron selloum – Selloum philodendron
• Philodendron domesticum – Elephant ear philodendron
• Dracaena marginata – Red-edged dracaena
• Dracaena fragrans ‘Massangeana’ – Cornstalk dracaena or Mass cane
• Dracaena deremensis ‘Janet Craig’ – Janet Craig dracaena
• Dracaena deremensis ‘Warneckii’ – Warneck dracaena
• Ficus benjamina – Weeping fig or Ficus
• Gerbera jamesonii – Gerbera daisy
• Chrysanthemum morifolium – Pot chrysanthemum

Resources:

Information taken from the NASA report Interior Landscape Plants for Indoor Air Pollution Abatement, September 1989. Dr. B.C. Wolverton, Anne Johnson, and Keith Bounds, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, John C. Stennis Space Center, Science and Technology Laboratory, Stennis Space Center, MS 39529-6000.

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