Toxins are wastes the body can’t handle. It’s the body’s job to get rid of any toxin before illness sets in.

A toxin is also a poison. Poisons are substances that cause disturbance to organisms, usually by chemical reaction or other activity on the molecular scale, when a sufficient quantity is absorbed.

Over 15 years ago I discovered it was the chemicals in my day-to-day routine of bathing, cleaning, putting on makeup, taking prescription drugs and eating highly processed foods that were making me sick. I started seeking alternative therapies and got back to the basics of cooking whole organic foods. Within a matter of a few months I was feeling 100 percent better. This article is to introduce you to taking the first steps in detoxifying your life and your home.

Step 1:  Be Aware

Learn where to find toxins, how to avoid them, and how to build the immune system after toxins have depleted it. (Did you know there are more than 30 ways your body can be bombarded by chemical toxins before you even eat breakfast?)

Alcohols, Acids, Alkali:  found in air fresheners, shampoos, conditioners, skin lotions, acne medications, cologne, moisturizers, antiperspirants detergents, chlorine bleach, dry cleaned clothes. Exposure may cause depression, fatigue, disorientation, rashes, respiratory problems and more.

Bleaches and Chlorines:  found in chlorine bleach. Exposure may cause the immune system to break down, decrease mental function, cause severe eye problems, headaches and more.

Detergents and Emulsifiers: found in bath soaps, skin lotions, shampoos, acne medications, toothpaste, cosmetics. Exposure may cause allergic reactions, blindness, cataracts, interference with nutrient absorption, loss of hair, skin irritation and more.

Dyes and Fragrances: found in mattresses, pillows, bath soaps, shampoos, conditioners, colognes, moisturizers, antiperspirants, laundry detergents. Exposure may cause dizziness, depression, convulsions, leukemia, muscular aches, vertigo, violent coughing and sneezing and more.

Heavy Metals:  found in bath soaps, skin lotions, acne medications, cosmetics and nail polish. Exposure may cause brain disorder, hyperactivity, Alzheimer’s and more.

Fungicides, Insecticides and Pesticides:  found in bath soaps, skin lotions, acne medications, detergents, mouthwash, toothpaste. Exposure may cause ADD, birth defects, memory loss, muscle weakness, nervous system disorder and more.

Petro Chemicals:  found in air fresheners, shampoos, conditioners, skin lotions, acne medications, cologne, moisturizers, antiperspirants, detergents, chlorine bleach, sanitary napkins, deodorant. Exposure may cause allergic reactions, headaches, fatigue, intestinal gas, pimples, rashes, splitting nails and more.

Formaldehyde:  found in baby shampoo, pet shampoo, plywood and paneling. Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen recognized as such by the Cancer Institute. Exposure may cause eye irritation, asthmatic response, skin irritation, headaches and nausea and more.

Preservatives (synthetic) & Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs):  Exposure may cause asthma, cancer, cramps, digestive problems, eye and organ damage, headaches, mental confusion and more.

Consider that day after day, week after week, year after year you are being exposed to these various toxic chemicals. Although the amount of toxin in any given product may be small, the effect is cumulative. At some point the body can no longer withstand the bombardment of toxins on the brain-body system and will erupt in symptoms of discord.

Step 2:  Seek Out Natural Solutions and Alternatives

Be chemically aware. Read labels and avoid toxic, chemical-laden products. Use the above list to help you get started. There are many all-natural products that can be found in local stores and co-ops as well as through direct sellers of personal and home care products, such as Melaleuca, Norwex, Young Living and others.

Step 3:  Start the Process

Educate yourself a little at a time by reading, asking questions, attending classes and connecting with others.

Pick one area to start making improvements (personal products, home cleaning products, food) and start your journey to a healthier, more vibrant you!

Kari Murlowski is a holistic educator and Young Living Distributor at The Integration Station, LLC, 4517 Allendale Dr., White Bear Township. For more information, call 763-785-4600, email [email protected] or visit YLScents.com/AllNaturalKari.