It’s no secret that neurological conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, are on the rise. Various factors contribute to the diagnosis of such conditions, but certain lifestyle considerations increase a person’s risk of memory loss or accelerated brain aging. Researchers  from the University of Oxford identified three lifestyle factors that increase the rate of aging and cognitive decline. This article will explain what they found. 

About The Study

Nature Communications published the recent study, during which researchers looked at the brain scans of about 40,000 people over the age of 45. These participants belonged to the UK Biobank database. The primary area of interest was how genetic and lifestyle factors impact areas of the brain that are vulnerable to the effects of aging and Alzheimer’s disease. 

• Genetic factors: usually classified as non-modifiable, but lifestyle habits may influence whether or not certain genes turn on. 
• Lifestyle: considered a modifiable risk factor because you have the power to change your habits and choices. That can ultimately increase or decrease the likelihood of developing a certain disease or illness. 

3 Risk Factors That Age The Brain Faster

Study authors noted three things that drove earlier degeneration of certain brain regions. These factors were: traffic-related air pollution, type 2 diabetes, and the frequency of alcohol intake. Interestingly enough, both traffic-related air pollution and alcohol intake have been linked to an increased risk of diabetes. 

• Air Pollution: You do not have full control of the amount of the air pollution you are exposed to on a daily basis. As a society, however, we can work to reduce the amount of pollution we produce. According to emerging data, exposure to pollution over time increases the risk of dementia.
• Diabetes: Previous studies have linked type 2 diabetes to an increased risk of dementia by as much as 60%.
• Alcohol frequency: Drinking alcohol, especially too much alcohol, can damage the brain. A 2023 study included over three million people in Korea and found that sustained heavy drinking increased the risk of dementia by 8%. Researchers noted that limiting alcohol consumption reduced the risk by 8%.

What differentiated this study from previous studies was the why factor. These factors are so dangerous to brain health because they target the brain’s weak spots. 

How Do Genetics Influence Cognitive Decline?

There have been some findings about the relationship between genetics and the way the brain ages. Most of this information is useful in research settings, and not in individuals. Certain genes, for example, code for immune and inflammatory recommendations to protect the most vulnerable parts of the brain that influence poor brain aging. Those genetic factors are also connected to some modifiable factors, so lifestyle improvements may help you overcome genetic predispositions to early brain aging. Such modifiable categories include blood pressure, body weight, smoking, depressive mood, inflammation, sleep, social patterns, physical activity, and education status. 

How To Protect The Brain And Prevent Dementia

Based on the findings in this study, the researchers encourage the following actionable recommendations to protect the most vulnerable parts of the brain:

• Invest in an air purifier: Although you cannot control the pollution outside the home, you can help keep the air inside the home as clean as possible. One of the best ways to do that is to invest in an air purifier. Just make sure that you get one with a HEPA filter because they are the best at removing particles from the air. 
• Increase your fiber intake: Researchers note that people who eat high-fiber diets are less likely to have type 2 diabetes. Fiber is a non-digestible carbohydrate that works to stabilize blood sugar and promote healthy digestion. Only 5% of American adults consume the recommended daily amount (RDA) of fiber. Women should consume between 21-28 grams per day, while men should consume 30-38 grams per day. Get more fiber by focusing on fibrous foods, such as lentils, avocados, beans, chia seeds, and other fruits and vegetables. 
• Limit your alcohol intake: Alcohol is a known toxin, especially in regards to cognitive health. You don’t have to completely avoid alcohol, but mindful consumption is best. Reserve a drink or two for special occasions and spend less time indulging just because.

SHARE:

The post These 3 Factors Make Your Brain Age Faster appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

The environment affects your skin, whether you are indoors or outside. Ultraviolet (UV) rays, blue light, pollution, and more are environmental factors that cause oxidative damage to the skin. This process breaks down collagen and may even damage the skin barrier, which compromises the skin. A damaged barrier makes you more prone to dry skin, cracking, and damaging effects of environmental factors. 

UV Rays Are the Biggest Threat To The Skin

UV rays from the sun are the most significant environmental factor that can damage the skin. Not only do they increase signs of aging, but they also increase the risk of skin cancer. UV rays trigger the production of free radicals, which can surpass neutralizing antioxidants according to research. These free radicals can break down collagen and elastin, causing wrinkles and other signs of aging. UV rays also stimulate melanin production, which can cause skin discolorations. Over time, too much exposure to UV rays without proper protection can dramatically increase the risk of numerous forms of skin cancer, especially melanoma. 

Air Pollution Plays A Role

Not only can air pollution affect your breathing, but it can also cause free radical damage on the skin, just like UV rays. Exposure to particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, ozone, and hydrocarbons can cause skin inflammation and oxidative stress. According to research, skin inflammation can impair collagen synthesis, which causes the skin to sag and wrinkle over time. The last thing you want is for pollution to chew up your collagen and elastin! 

If you want to take action to protect your skin from environmental damage, consider the following tips. They may come in handy more than you know!

Pick A Functional Powder For Sun Protection

If you are on-the-go, consider getting your hands on a functional powder. These types of powders have built-in SPF and are great options because you can dust them over existing lotions or makeup. They are great if you work in an office and need a little midday touch-up. 

Try A Mineral Sunscreen

If you spend time in the sun, dermatologists agree that you must wear sunscreen in order to protect your skin. Ideally, you want to use sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, both of which physically block UV rays. Chemical sunscreen may be invisible after applying on the skin, but they allow some absorption of light. That’s why skin care experts recommend mineral-based sunscreens to effectively protect the skin. They may leave a whitish appearance on the skin, but better to be protected than not! 

Consider Supplementing With Vitamins C & E

UV rays, air pollution, and blue light can all cause oxidative stress on the skin, a process that breaks down collagen and elastin. The best way to neutralize free radicals is by maintaining a steady intake or application of antioxidants. Vitamin C tends to work more efficiently with vitamin E, according to research studies. That’s why they are often together in different formulations. Vitamin C and E serums can help prep your skin in the morning, providing a natural defense that it needs to face the day. 

Opt For More Antioxidants

Not only do antioxidant serums have their place in the morning, but they also have their place at night. Opting for ingredients like glutathione and resveratrol can help repair damage that was done during the day. Resveratrol, which exists in grapes, peanuts, soy, and other foods, can sop up free radicals. Glutathione is another antioxidant that works to address dark spots, according to one study. There are many antioxidant creams or ointments that work to fight sun-damaging effects, but don’t neglect the consumption of antioxidants from colorful plant-based foods. Those do great things for your skin and other bodily systems and organs. 

Wash Up Carefully Before Bed

After being out and about all day, you need to wash off all that grime that the skin accumulates. Before you go to bed, use a gentle cleanser that works to both clean out pores and keep the skin barrier intact. If you use a cleanser that is too rough, then you increase the risk of skin irritation. 

Always Protect At Night

In addition to cleansing after a long day, you may want to apply other skin-nourishing ingredients before you hit the hay. Moisturizers or serums that contain antioxidants can help clear up environmental damage and support collagen production throughout the night.

SHARE:

The post The Best Ingredients To Protect Your Skin Against Environmental Damage appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

You don’t have to be braving the frigid, dry cold of winter to experience dry skin. Some people have naturally dry skin and regularly lather themselves with moisturizers or creams. Hand, body, and face lotions don’t always seem to provide long-term relief for dry skin, though. For that reason, we always recommend using all-natural ingredients that the skin can easily absorb. 

The ingredients in the moisturizer in this article provide long-lasting moisture and are quite gentle on the skin. You only need four ingredients to make this moisturizer: olive oil, coconut oil, beeswax pellets, and vitamin E oil. Add these ingredients to the top of a double boiler or to a heat-safe glass jar in a hot water bath in a saucepan on the stove. Once completely melted, pour the mixture into the vessel of your choice and allow it to cool. It will turn into a gel-like consistency. Continue reading to learn more about the moisturizing ingredients. 

Olive Oil

Olive oil makes for a great addition to both your diet and your skin care routine. It is an emollient that contains monounsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants that make it an excellent moisturizer. The skin’s integrity is highly dependent on the lipid barrier, which holds individual cells together. Weather and other factors can evaporate the lipid barrier and lead to unpleasant, dry skin. Fortunately, olive oil acts as a secondary skin barrier that helps to keep your skin moist and hydrated. 

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil works as a great moisturizer, but is it right for your skin? If you have oily skin or are prone to breakouts, coconut oil may not be the best ingredient for your skin, especially your face. It does work to seal moisture into the skin, trapping water to keep the skin as moist as possible. Dermatologists recommend using coconut oil on damp skin, for optimal moisture sealing. Additionally, one study confirmed that coconut oil was a sufficient moisture-repairing ingredient. Coconut oil may also boost elasticity more than your average body lotion. 

Beeswax

Beeswax works to form a protective layer on the skin that acts as a barrier against pollution and other environmental toxins. By forming this protective layer, beeswax also works to lock in moisture and can prevent the skin from becoming dry or irritated. If you regularly scratch your skin because of dryness, beeswax may also provide some relief, especially since it works to keep out irritants and allergens. Beeswax also exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help fight grime or bacteria that exist on the skin or in pores. 

Vitamin E Oil

Just like the other ingredients in this article, vitamin E oil encourages a healthy lipid barrier, which helps to keep the skin’s protective barrier intact. Vitamin E oil essentially fills in the little cracks in the skin, sealing in moisture so that it doesn’t dry out. Several studies confirmed that vitamin E allows for long-lasting moisture between skin cells. In fact, vitamin E oil can keep the skin hydrated for up to 16 hours!

DIY Olive Oil Moisturizer

Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 2 tablespoon beeswax pellets
• 1/2 teaspoon vitamin E oil

Instructions:

• Combine all of the ingredients in a heat-safe glass jar (a canning jar or measuring cup will work). Pour a couple inches of water into a small saucepan over medium-low heat and then place the jar of ingredients into the saucepan.
• As the water heats up, the contents in the glass vessel will begin to melt. You can stir the ingredients with a wooden utensil as the melt to combine them. 
• Once completely melted, remove from heat and pour the melted mixture into a small tin or jar for storage. 
• Allow it to cool for about an hour and it should reach a gel-like consistency. Use as needed.

SHARE:

The post DIY Olive Oil Moisturizer appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Now more than ever, over-sanitation is too common in the household. We house an assortment of cleaning products beneath the sink, in either the kitchen or bathroom. People bleach the counters or high-touch surfaces, and they wipe the floors until they are shiny and spotless. The important thing to remember is that people do these things to keep themselves safe. As it turns out, they may do more harm than good for the body.

According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), upwards of 2,000 cleaning supplies on the American market contain chemicals that can lead to serious health problems. Fumes from some products lead to respiratory distress, while carcinogenic compounds in others increase cancer risk. Parents who over-sanitize the house can cause their children to grow up to develop serious respiratory problems like asthma. One study even found that inhaling chemicals from cleaning products has a similar damaging effect that cigarettes have on the lungs. Pregnant women who clean with chemical products may even increase the risk of birth defects. 

Are People Not Informed About These Risks?

Despite all of this information, cleaning products still make it onto U.S. shelves. Manufactures are not required to list all the ingredients in these cleaning products. Additionally, don’t assume that “green” cleaning products are 100% safe for you. They can still contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), fragrances, and other irritants. That’s why it’s always best to do your research on the safest cleaning products for your health. The Environmental Protection Agency has a list of cleaning products that are safer and healthier for cleaning needs. 

Home Cleaning Products Study

The University of Bergen in Norway conducted a 20-year study on home cleaning products. The study monitored 6,230 participants between the ages of 20 and 44. Each participant had up to three lung tests during the duration of the study. The study divided the participants into three categories: people who cleaned at least once a week, people who didn’t clean, and people who cleaned as a profession. The results indicated that women who cleaned once a week experienced reduced lung function. They also experienced an increase in asthma. Women who cleaned as a profession saw a decline in lung function that mimicked the effects of smoking half a pack of cigarettes per day. Men in the study had similar effects. 

While the takeaway from that study seems like cleaning products only affect lung function, this is not the case. They contain chemicals that can disrupt the endocrine system, which contains the glands that regulate hormones. Disrupting this system can lead to hormonal imbalance that can affect the body’s natural messaging system. Additionally, the chemicals can block hormone function, or mimic hormone function. Either way, they disrupt hormones and cause distress, confusion, or even nutritional deficiencies in the body. Some other problems that household cleaners cause include:

• Birth defects
• Hypothyroidism
• Infertility
• Skin disorders
• Allergies
• Respiratory issues
• Diabetes
• Inflammation
• Nerve damage
• Increased cancer risk
• Eye irritation

Can You Avoid These Problems?

Chemical cleaning products are convenient. People know them because they regularly see them in the stores and in commercials. The best thing you can do to keep yourself protected is to read the labels and reports on the products before purchasing them. Opt for products that do not contain fragrances, flammable ingredients, irritants, or VOCs. Additionally, don’t buy air fresheners. 

A safe cleaning alternative to major household cleaning products is soap and warm water. This is great for cleaning the home. Lastly, baking soda is excellent for scrubbing away grime. You can also use distilled white vinegar and water to clean glass surfaces. When you clean, be it with natural or chemical cleaning products, make sure to keep the home well ventilated. Open the windows so that fresh air can come in and the chemicals can go out.

SHARE:

The post This Is What Household Cleaners Do To The Body appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

We are under attack…from countless pollutants and free radicals in the environment. The outdoor air we breathe may not be trying to kill us or intentionally harm our skin, but it definitely can contribute to early signs of aging. With pollution levels increasing as the years go by, researchers estimate that our skin is in trouble. Not only does harmful air endanger the body and skin from the inside, but also from the outside.

If you live in a city, there’s no way to escape smog and soot from car emissions or pollutants in smoke from factories. These hazardous pollutants continue to thin the ozone layer, which allows harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays to penetrate the atmosphere. It’s important to note that beneficial ozone exists in the stratosphere, while ground-level ozone can increase the risk of respiratory problems. This threatens both the planet and your skin. One study linked air pollution to an increased presence of brown spots on the skin in test subjects in China and Germany. 

How Does Air Pollution Affect Your Skin?

The outermost layer of the skin, the epidermis, contains fats that bind skin cells together. According to scientific studies, ozone oxidizes these lipids (fats) and breaks down your skin’s barrier. This can lead to inflammatory responses and DNA-damaging situations. In addition to ozone, thousands of micro-particles enter the body through the mouth, nose, and pores in your skin. These particles can form free radicals and break down collagen, which is a necessary building block for healthy skin. As this happens, you can experience wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots, and overall dryness. How can you keep your skin healthy and fight all of this pollution? Continue reading to find out. 

Daily Scrubs

Environmental toxins can reside in pores and and slowly build up on the skin. This is why you have to scrub daily, even if you only do it for ten seconds. It’s best to cleanse in the morning and at night, especially the face, but make sure that the cleanser is not too rough. You can use a homemade sugar scrub (click here for recipes) on your face and you can use a loofah in the shower on the rest of the body. Give your facial skin the most love, though.

Moisturize

The skin requires moisture for optimal health, but environmental toxins tend to dry it out. Applying moisturizers on the skin helps to create a protective barrier that works to regulate oil production and lock in moisture. When you are able to hydrate the skin, it is less prone to dryness and inflammation. Click here for a wonderful DIY moisturizer that helps to combat dryness. 

Use Antioxidants To Your Advantage

Certain moisturizes can help nourish and protect the skin, but one of the best ways to fight pollutants and free radicals is with antioxidants. Some skin care products contain potent antioxidants, but it’s also beneficial to include them in your diet. Nourishing the skin internally is just as important as external love. You have to keep the molecules that make up the skin as healthy as possible because pollutants can break down collagen fibers. Try to focus on three key antioxidants: vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E. Some products have these, but you can also get them by eating sunflower seeds, almonds, beets, beet greens, carrots, guavas, citrus fruits, pumpkins, bell peppers, leafy greens (spinach, collards, beet greens, kale, and arugula), cantaloupe, butternut squash, kiwis, sweet potatoes, and more. 

Apply Sunscreen

It’s easy for harmful UVB and UVA rays to damage the skin, causing dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles prematurely. Protect your skin by applying sunscreen, but please choose your sunscreen wisely. Many varieties have harmful chemicals that negatively affect the skin. Reef-safe sunscreens are the best because they contains ingredients that are environmentally friendly. They also don’t clog your pores like regular sunscreens do. Keep in mind that you want an SPF of at least 30-50 for optimal protection, with a 50 SPF for your face. 

Use Facial Steams

Facial steams are beneficial for emptying your pores of toxins that build up after exposure to environmental pollutants and chemical skin care products. The steam opens up the pores for optimal cleaning, and then you have to wash your face with cold water to close them up. To do a simple facial steam, boil some water and then pour it in a heat-safe bowl. Feel free to add some drops of essential oils or fresh/dried herbs to the water for added benefits. Hold your head about six inches above the water and tent your head and shoulders over the bowl by draping a towel over your head. Remain here for about five minutes before washing your face with a gentle cleanser. Be sure to moisturize after you cleanse and dry your face. 

SHARE:

The post Protect Your Skin From Pollution With These Skin Care Tips appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

The air freshener market is an enormous beast that seduces you with its enchanting aromas. From candles and plug-in devices to sprays and gels, air fresheners plague you everywhere you go. Businesses have sprays in restrooms, friends have freshening candles in their living rooms, and you may even have plug-ins in your house. Some scents are attractive and others aren’t, but no matter what the scent of the air freshener is, it pollutes your indoor air.

Air Fresheners At A Glance

They seem nice to the untrained nose, but we’re about to drop some knowledge on you. Air fresheners are one of the primary sources of indoor air pollution because they emit or cause the formation of substances that have been linked to cancer, neurotoxicity, and endocrine disruption. It’s unfortunate because companies can label their air fresheners with “all-natural” or “green” words to attract customers, despite the fact that they are far from natural. Fragrances are trademarked blends, and companies are not required to put the ingredients in those blends on ingredient labels. 

What Is Indoor Air Pollution?

Yes, the air in your home is not as safe as you thought. It may not be as poor as the air outside, which is replete with environmental pollutants and airborne toxins. While the air in your home may not be as healthy as you think it is, you have complete control over how fresh your indoor air is. Air fresheners, cooking oils, cleaning products, and building materials dictate the quality of indoor air. If you use air fresheners, a quick and easy way to improve indoor air quality is by throwing them out. Get them out of your house!

When you don’t have the constant presence of fragrances in your house, you may notice that you experience better respiratory function. The fragrances from air freshener gels, sprays, or plug-ins contain contain the following harmful pollutants:

• Parabens: which can increase the risk of breast cancer.
• Toluene: which scientists have linked to reproductive and developmental toxicity.
• 1,4-Diclorobenzene (1,4 DB): a volatile organic compound that can negatively affect lung function, especially in people with asthma or respiratory illnesses.
• Xylene: linked to symptoms such as headaches, depression, dizziness, short-term memory impairment, and central nervous system depression.
• d-Limonene: is a sensitizer, which can increase the odds of future allergic reactions. It may also irritate the eyes and skin.
• Phthalates: linked to damaging the female reproductive system and increasing the risk of birth defects. It may also contribute to endocrine disruption.
• Benzene: a harmful carcinogen that is toxic to reproductive and developmental health.

Making Your Own Air Freshener

You don’t need to subject your respiratory system to harmful fragrances that contain volatile compounds because it’s easy to make your own air freshener. It sounds difficult, but it’s so much easier than you think. All you need is some baking soda, the essential oil of your choice, a glass jar, and a cupcake liner. Perfectly naturally and wonderfully aromatic. Your house will smell as fragrant as ever without harming your air quality. 

DIY Air Freshener

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup baking soda
• 10 drops eucalyptus essential oil (or whatever essential oil you prefer)
• 4 ounce mason jar
• Cupcake liner
• Skewer

Instructions:

• Add the baking soda to the mason jar and mix in the essential oil. Give it a quick mix.
• Place a cupcake liner over the jar and place a rubber band around the jar. 
• Screw the lid down over the cupcake liner and use a skewer to poke a few holes in the cupcake liner. 
• You’re all set and ready to smell delicious!

SHARE:

The post Are Indoor Air Fresheners Polluting Your Home With Toxins? appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Millions of people in parts of California and the Pacific Northwest are living through historic wildfires. Hundreds of thousands of acres have burned in California, Oregon, and Washington, and many people lost their homes. For people in those areas, breathing has not been easy either. In fact, going outside and inhaling outdoor air still presents a health hazard because wildfire smoke poses a serious threat to respiratory health. 

This is going to sound a little crazy, but ride this out with us: the coronavirus taught us something. Sit tight, we aren’t done yet. As a result of the coronavirus pandemic, people started to pay more attention to the air they breathe. When people went outside in the beginning of the Creek Fire, Bobcat Fire, El Dorado Fire, or the Beachie Creek Fire, for instance, they reported difficulty breathing.

What’s In Wildfire Smoke?

Wildfires generate plumes of smoke that can travel many miles. The contents in wildfire smoke depend on the temperature of the fire (flaming or smoldering) and what’s burning (grass, trees, or brush). There are also particles and gases that fuel the fire, including carbon monoxide, ozone, particulate matter (linked to respiratory illnesses), nitrogen dioxide, polycyclic aromatic compounds, hydrocarbons, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Particulate matter is often the most prevalent, and it poses a threat because it is 50 times smaller than a grain of sand (less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter). This is why air quality warnings use PM2.5 as a metric. 

The human body can’t defend against particles smaller than PM2.5. Have you been around a campfire and blown your nose after? Did you notice that your mucus was brown or blackish? That’s because particulate matter passed your body’s defenses and actually disturbed your air sacks, where oxygen crosses over into your blood. While there are immune cells in these air sacks that seek out foreign invaders and destroy them, they can’t break down particulate matter. This means that they constantly work to destroy them, resulting in more inflammation. Too much inflammation in the respiratory system is dangerous, especially for people with asthma or COPD. 

Symptoms Of Breathing In Wildfire Smoke

• Wheezing
• Sneezing
• Congestion
• Throat irritation
• Eye irritation 
• Chest discomfort
• Shortness of breath
• Runny nose

COVID-19 shares a couple of those symptoms, so it can be confusing and scary with the current pandemic. The last thing you want to do during the pandemic is compromise the respiratory system or immune system. Whether or not there is a connection between smoke exposure and an increased risk of viral infection remains to be seen, but you should take extra measures to protect your respiratory health. 

What Can You Do To Stay Healthy And Safe?

When wildfires are ablaze, the best thing you can do is stay indoors as much as possible. Don’t do strenuous activity outside, even if you have the itch to exercise. We know that people have been instructed to stay indoors since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, but it is necessary with all the particulate matter in the air. General recommendations to stay safe are below:

Roll up car windows

Don’t leave your windows down if you’re driving around in a smoky area. Additionally, keep your vents closed and operate your air conditioning on the recirculation setting. 

Don’t burn candles

It’s tempting to burn a candle in your home, especially if it has a beautiful aroma. Keep in mind that a burning candle is a source of indoor air pollution.

Mask up

If you have to go outside, don’t rely on a simple bandana or thin facial covering to keep you safe. Particulate matter can pass through this breathable fabrics. N95 respirator masks or more expensive dust masks can help filter out damaging particles. 

Pay attention to air quality ratings

If wildfires are not far from where you live, monitor the air quality rating in your area daily. Cities with over 350,000 residents have to report levels daily, and the air quality is monitored by satellites and ground instruments. 

Take precautions for children

Children’s lungs are still developing and they actually breathe in more air than adults do. For this reason, they are more susceptible to pollution from smoke. Reign them in as best you can to keep them playing inside when it’s smoky outside.

Protect the air in your home

Do what you can to keep your windows and doors closed as much as possible. If you have air conditioning, see if there is a recirculation setting to prevent your air conditioning from pulling air into the home. Most central air conditioning systems have HEPA filters for added protection. You can also place damp towels at the base of door frames or other places where air can sneak in the home.

SHARE:

The post This Is What Wildfire Smoke Does To Your Lungs appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

During the time of COVID-19, a serious respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the last thing people need is to breathe in unhealthy air. As of April 2020, roughly 150 million Americans breathed unhealthy air in their own cities. Unfortunately, air quality in the U.S. has gone downhill in many regions, and the most likely culprit is climate change.

In case you haven’t noticed, it has been getting hotter and hotter with each passing year. Wildfires across the nation occurred because of unusually dry conditions. The excessive heat contributes to the formation of ozone pollution, and the fires cause particle matter pollution. Some cities have higher rates of ozone pollution, while others have higher rates of particle pollution.  

The 2019 State Of The Air Report

2019 State of the Air report, published on April 24^th, 2019, examined nationwide air pollution during the three-year period of 2015 through 2017. According to the data, those three years were the hottest years ever recorded on Planet Earth. The report included spikes in particle pollution and ozone pollution, exposing an additional 7.2 million people to unhealthy air from the previous report of 2013 to 2015.

The 2020 State Of The Air Report

Documenting the years of 2016, 2017, and 2018, the 2020 State of the Air report found an increase in high days of ozone and short-term particle pollution, when compared to the 2019 State of the Air report. Far too many communities experience respiratory setbacks as a result of poor air quality. 2020 is the 50^th anniversary of the Clean Air Act, yet people don’t seem to take air quality and our impact on the environment seriously. Soot levels rose to record highs and ground-level ozone (also known as smog) reached unhealthy levels from 2016 to 2018. Unfortunately for millions of Americans, the 2020 report marks the fourth year in a row that air quality has declined and threatened more people’s health.

10 Worst Cities By Ozone

1. Los Angeles-Long Beach, CA
2. Visalia, CA
3. Bakersfield, CA
4. Fresno-Madera-Hanford, CA
5. Sacramento-Roseville, CA
6. San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad, CA
7. Phoenix-Mesa, AZ
8. San Jose-San Francisco, CA
9. Las Vegas-Henderson, NV
10. Denver-Aurora, CO

In case you didn’t notice, California’s metro areas dominate that list. The reason for this is because of the state’s topography and giant populations.

10 Worst Cities By Year-Round Particle Pollution

1. Bakersfield, CA
2. Fresno-Madera-Hanford, CA
3. Visalia, CA
4. Los Angeles-Long Beach, CA
5. San Jose-San Francisco, CA
6. Fairbanks, AK
7. Phoenix-Mesa, AZ
8. Pittsburg-New Castle-Wirton, PA-OH-WV
9. El Centro, CA
10. Detroit-Warren-Ann Arbor, MI

What Is Particle Pollution?

This type of pollution refers to tiny liquid or solid particles that exist in the air. You can’t see these particles because they are incredibly small, but you’ll notice that the air appears opaque if too many of these particles are present. Living in an area with horrible particle pollution can worsen your respiratory health.

What Is Ozone Pollution?

Depending on where it is in the atmosphere, ozone is labeled good or bad. For instance, stratospheric ozone protects living things on the planet from ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Ozone becomes dangerous to your health when too much ground-level ozone is present in the air. Cities with high rates of ground-level ozone can negatively affect the health of the elderly, children, or people with respiratory conditions.

As we continue to battle COVID-19, monitor the air quality or air pollution in your city. Do what you can for the environment and focus on inhaling clean, healthy air.

SHARE:

The post These 10 U.S. Cities Have The Worst Air Quality appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Your home is meant to be a clean, toxin-free space of serenity. You shouldn’t have to struggle to catch your breath or ruin the health of your lungs in your own home. Air pollutants can easily make their way into your home, but you have to do something to prevent them from ruining your home’s air quality.  Luckily, the solution may be as simple as purchasing indoor plants.

According to health experts, many indoor plants can help reduce the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in your home. The Lung Institute believes that purifying the air inside the home can not only improve lung health, but also reduce stress levels and improve mental clarity. Some people believe that indoor plants are not efficient for improving air quality, but many studies prove otherwise.

What Do Plants Clean From The Air?

Everyone remembers photosynthesis from chemistry class, right? If you don’t, photosynthesis is the natural process in which plants remove carbon dioxide from the air and then release oxygen. Plants also work to remove toluene, heptane, 3-methylhexane, and ethylbenzene, all of which are VOCs. If you want to improve air quality in your home, invite the following plants inside.

Snake Plant

Technically known as mother-in-law’s tongue, the snake plant thrives indoors. In fact, it’s nearly impossible to kill, so you don’t need a green thumb to keep it alive. Experts say that this plant is excellent for oxygen production and it works to remove benzene, formaldehyde, xylene, toluene, and trichloroethylene from the air. Snake plants release oxygen at night, so place one in your bedroom to contribute to better sleep. They do best near windows that are exposed to a lot of sunlight.

Spider Plant

Similar to the snake plant, the spider plant is quite resilient. If you don’t have a good history with caring for plants, this is the perfect one for you. Several studies revealed that it effectively absorbs formaldehyde, carbon monoxide, and benzene from the air. It’s perfectly safe for homes with pets or small children. Just make sure it’s in an area that gets sufficient sunlight. 

Gerbera Daisy

The Gerbera Daisy is the most attractive indoor plant on this list. Known for its ability to produce high levels of oxygen at night, the Gerbera Daisy works to remove trichloroethylene and benzene from the air. Benzene is commonly found in fabric, so this plant is best for bedrooms or laundry rooms. Make sure that the plant gets a lot of sunlight and that the soil has proper drainage.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is great for sunburns and helps accelerate wound healing. People get too caught up with the gel, and they forget about the other benefits of the plant. Much like the Gerbera Daisy, aloe vera produces a lot of oxygen at night, helping to purify bedroom air for optimal sleep. Aloe helps to clear the air of formaldehyde and benzene, which come from certain paints or chemical-based cleaners. One thing to keep in mind is that you do not want to overwater it. That’s the only way to kill aloe vera.

English Ivy Plant

If you have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), this is the plant for you. English Ivy helps to naturally relax the airways, reducing the amount of coughing for people with asthma, COPD, or bronchitis. Place several plants around your house, making sure to have one in your bedroom. English Ivy also works to reduce 94% of airborne mold particles, decreasing the risk of mold growth in your home. And…mold particles won’t damage your airways!

SHARE:

The post 5 Indoor Plants That Will Help You Breathe Better appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

The Google Science Fair, which began in 2011, is a place that allows students between ages 13-18 to submit experiments to a panel of judges. The winner receives the grand prize of $50,000, and this year’s winner was a teenager form West Cork, Ireland named Fionn Ferreira. His project was titled “An Investigation into the Removal of Microplastics from Water Using Ferro Fluids,” which examined a method for removing microplastics from water.

Microplastics, which are less than two millimeters in diameter, pose a major threat to our oceans. Even though the existence of microplastics in our oceans and food sources is a problem, it is difficult to remove them because they are so small. Ferreira may have discovered a solution for their removal, though, using magnetite powder (a.k.a. iron oxide). His hypothesis is based on the work of Dr. Arden Warner, a man who discovered that magnetite powder could help clean up oil spills. The reason this works is because magnetite powder and oil are non-polar. Ferreira wanted to apply this to microplastics in water. For fear of incorrectly explaining his method of extraction, here is what Ferreira wrote in his science paper.

“I used this method in the extraction of microplastics by adding oil to a suspension containing a known concentration of microplastics, these then migrated into the oil phase. Magnetite powder was added. The resulting microplastic containing ferro-fluid was removed using strong magnets.” He later went on to explain that he chose ten different types of plastics to continue his testing, and conducted more than 1,000 tests, concluding that this method would be effective at removing about 85% of microplastics from water.

Microplastics make their way into the ocean from landfills and litter, but also from fishing nets and gear that get discarded in the ocean. These things are not biodegradable; rather, they continue to break down into smaller pieces of plastic, resulting in billions of tiny microfibers and microplastics, which cannot be filtered. Small fish eat these microplastics and bigger fish eat the smaller fish. Humans then eat the bigger fish, so humans consume microplastics. A recent study indicated that humans swallow around 2,000 microplastics every week.

Ferreira has the hopes of taking his at-home tests further to create a large-scale operation, focusing on the removal of microplastics from larger bodies of water. In closing, Ferreira urges that testing does not need to be conducted in professional labs to yield results. You can build your own equipment and test everything at home.

SHARE:

The post Irish Teen May Have The Solution For Removing Microplastics From Water appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.