Our Picks for Best Bamboo Toothbrushes
Each product featured here has been independently selected by the writer. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
- Best Overall - Brush with Bamboo Toothbrush with Plant-Based Bristles
- Best Dentist-Designed - The Humble Co. Biodegradable Bamboo Toothbrush
- Best Charcoal Toothbrush - Isshah Bamboo Charcoal Toothbrush
- Best for Kids - Darlyng & Co. Biodegradable Bamboo Toothbrush
- Best for Travel - SmartLifEco Bamboo Toothbrushes, Toothbrush Holder & Travel Case
Why Switch to a Bamboo Toothbrush?
The American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every three to four months. That means people in the U.S. alone would use over a billion toothbrushes per year, most of which are made from plastic.
According to Library of Congress records, nylon bristles were invented in 1938 as part of the consumer-driven plastic boom that occurred in the early decades of the 20th century. Since then, the production, use, and disposal of toothbrushes with plastic-molded handles and nylon bristles have steadily increased.
Although there are plenty of ways to reuse your sanitized toothbrush after it's no longer effective for cleaning your mouth, most end up in the trash sooner or later. And from there, many end up in our oceans and waterways.
Just a couple of years ago, an estimated 373,000 toothbrushes were picked off the coasts of the remote Cocos archipelago (which is home to only about 600 people). And those were just within the top four inches of sand.
If you adhere to the ADA's recommended schedule, you'll go through about 300 toothbrushes in your lifetime. But there are ways to avoid contributing to this waste stream, such as switching to a bamboo toothbrush. They're made from natural materials, so they can be tossed in your compost bin after you're done using them.
5 Best Bamboo Toothbrushes
Based on our market research and firsthand use, these are the five best bamboo toothbrushes available on Amazon:
Best Overall: Brush with Bamboo Toothbrush with Plant-Based Bristles
brushwithbamboo.com
Brush with Bamboo's bamboo toothbrushes come in a pack of four, which should last you about a year according to the ADA's recommendations for replacing your brush. Although many bamboo toothbrushes are made from a wooden handle and nylon bristles, Brush with Bamboo's products have bristles made from 100% plant-based castor bean oil.
While this makes them the most sustainable toothbrushes on our list, the bristles aren't certified for home composting, so they should still be removed with pliers before tossing your bamboo handle in a personal compost bin (though, if you drop your food scraps and other compostable materials at a municipal facility, they'll break down just fine).
Customer rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars with over 1,000 Amazon reviews
Why buy: USDA Certified Biobased bristles; Compostable packaging; Green America® certified business; Plastic Pollution Coalition member
Best Dentist-Designed: The Humble Co. Biodegradable Bamboo Toothbrush
thehumble.co
You can feel good about the effectiveness of The Humble Co.'s Biodegradable Bamboo Toothbrush, as it was designed by dentists in Sweden. You can also feel good that, for every toothbrush sold, The Humble Co. donates an oral care product to a child in need.
These bamboo toothbrushes come in a pack of five and are made with BPA-free nylon bristles, which means they're not 100% biodegradable — the bristles will need to be removed before composting the handle. The nylon bristles can, however, be placed in a larger plastic bottle or container and tossed in your curbside recycling bin. The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified packaging that the brushes come in can also be composted.
Customer Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars with over 600 Amazon reviews
Why Buy: BPA-free bristles; Dentist-designed; Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified packaging; Buy-one-give-one social responsibility business model; Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certified business
Best Charcoal Toothbrush: Isshah Bamboo Charcoal Toothbrushes
isshah.com
Looking for a toothbrush that can help you get a naturally brighter smile? Check out Isshah's bamboo charcoal toothbrush, which comes in a pack of four and is packaged in 100% recycled craft paper.
These toothbrushes have nylon bristles treated with activated charcoal, which studies have shown may remove surface stains from your teeth, remove oral bacteria, and remove more plaque than standard nylon bristles. However, some dentists recommend avoiding charcoal, as it can be especially abrasive.
Customer Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars with over 9,500 Amazon reviews
Why Buy: BPA-free bristles; Charcoal-treated for natural whitening; Well-reviewed; 100% recycled, biodegradable packaging
Best for Kids: Darlyng & Co. Biodegradable Bamboo Toothbrush
darlyngandco.com
Your little brushers will love the colorful bristles of Darlyng & Co.'s bamboo toothbrushes. Each brush is made with a bamboo handle and BPA-free nylon bristles that are soft enough to be gentle on kids' gums yet still provide a thorough clean. As with all nylon bristles, they will need to be removed before composting the toothbrush handle.
Darlyng & Co. was founded by Carl and Tara Darnley, parents who started their business after inventing a teething mit for their two-month-old whose baby teeth came in early. Today, the company offers a variety of child-focused products, from sippy cups to shampoo to nightlights.
Customer Rating: 5 out of 5 stars with less than 10 Amazon reviews
Why Buy: BPA-free bristles; Black-owned business; Plastic-free packaging; Smaller size for child use
Best for Travel: SmartLifEco Bamboo Toothbrushes, Toothbrush Holder & Travel Case
smarterlifeco.com
The SmartLifEco bamboo toothbrush set comes with four toothbrushes as well as a bamboo travel case and a holder that you can keep on your bathroom counter, which means you can say goodbye to that less-than-stellar communal toothbrush cup. The travel case and everyday holder have drainage holes that allow moisture to escape, keeping your toothbrush mold and bacteria-free.
While the toothbrush handle is made from bamboo, the bristles are BPA-free nylon, so they'll need to be removed before composting the handle. The bristles are, however, treated with charcoal for natural whitening, which is a nice feature.
Customer Rating: 5 out of 5 stars with less than 10 Amazon reviews
Why Buy: BPA-free bristles; Charcoal-treated for natural whitening; Comes with travel case and countertop holder
FAQ: Bamboo Toothbrushes
How long do bamboo toothbrushes last?
The ADA recommends replacing your toothbrush every three to four months, or when the bristles have frayed. Bamboo toothbrushes easily last this long.
Are bamboo toothbrushes hygienic?
Yes, bamboo toothbrushes are completely hygienic. However, you'll want to make sure they dry properly and not stored in a damp place. (We will note that some "eco-friendly" toothbrushes use animal hair for bristles. While this is a truly natural option, the hair can harbor bacteria that makes it unhygienic.)
Do dentists recommend bamboo toothbrushes?
As long as your bamboo toothbrush has soft bristles, it's ADA-compliant, which means it's got the seal of approval from dentists in the U.S. Both plant-based castor bean oil bristles and nylon bristles fit this description.
Melissa Smith is an avid writer, scuba diver, backpacker, and all-around outdoor enthusiast. She graduated from the University of Florida with degrees in journalism and sustainable studies. Before joining EcoWatch, Melissa worked as the managing editor of Scuba Diving magazine and the communications manager of The Ocean Agency, a non-profit that's featured in the Emmy award-winning documentary Chasing Coral.
What are Essential Oils?
Essential oils are potent, highly concentrated extracts from plants. Many of them have been used for centuries with the primary objective of promoting wellness and wellbeing. Aside from that, they are also an excellent way to connect with an ancient and profound part of nature.
Essential oils provide a natural alternative to chemical products made with synthetic components, which can often be unsafe or untrustworthy. For many people, this makes plant therapy a better option for body care, or home use. Common uses of essential oils include aromatherapy, taking care of your skin, easing muscle pain, or merely cleaning and perfuming your home.
The Best Essential Oils
You may not know it yet, but essential oils can be used to enhance many day-to-day activities. You can find countless synergistic practices for the best essential oils to use in your daily routine. Let's take a look at our favorite essential oils and what makes them so great.
Each product featured here has been independently selected by the writer. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
Peppermint
cliganic.com
Peppermint essential oil is extracted from the plant before it actually blooms, which is why it is much more concentrated than other essential oils. Its main ingredient is menthol and is trendy in cosmetics since it brings significant benefits to the skin, hair, and of course, your general well-being.
Eucalyptus
svanaturals.com
Eucalyptus essential oil has a fresh, camphoric aroma and a low tone of sweet wood; its infusions and the inhalation of its vapors are used against catarrhal processes. It has stimulating, clearing, and antiviral effects. It is also a great expectorant and nasal decongestant.
Chamomile
auracacia.com
Chamomile contains mainly anti-inflammatory properties, but it is also an effective antipruritic, making it an excellent anti-itch medication. Roman chamomile is also known for its mental benefits, including potential relief from stress, anxiety, and insomnia.
Tea Tree
planttherapy.com
Tea tree oil comes from steaming the leaves of the Australian tea tree. It is useful in strengthening the immune response against influenza epidemics and in disinfecting the skin in case of wounds.
Geranium
planttherapy.com
Geranium is an essential oil used to treat acne, sore throat, anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Distilled from the leaves of the Geranium plant found in places like Egypt and Madagascar, you'll be able to identify it by its distinctive pink color and herbaceous scent.
Frankincense
cliganic.com
Frankincense is called The King of the essential oils because of its many different benefits, including skincare treatments, the strength of cellular health, immunity, and inflammatory response. The particular aroma of this oil gives an atmosphere of relaxation, peace, and satisfaction, which explains why some of the most ancient civilizations used it for their rituals and ceremonies.
Jojoba
cliganic.com
Jojoba oil is great for hair, skin, and nails, and helps balance oily and acne-prone skin, making it one of the most popular ingredients of moisturizers throughout the last decade. It can also be used to help hydrate your hair or as a massage oil.
Ylang ylang
planttherapy.com
Ylang ylang is the most efficient essential oil extracted from the Cananga tree (Cananga odorata), found in countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Australia. It is known as a great promoter of skin and hair care, with uses that range from sun protection to soften the skin. Due to its ability to create calm atmospheres, this oil is used in anxiety and depression treatments, and is also an excellent natural insect repellent.
Bergamot
gyalabs.com
Bergamot, which comes from the bergamot orange citrus plant, is used for its aroma and flavor in some perfumes. This essential oil is known for having benefits in skincare treatments, offering cleaning and purifying effects, as well as its calming benefits.
Clary Sage
healingsolutions.com
Clary sage is recognized for its properties that promote female health during the menstrual cycle, relieving abdominal pain and contributing to a healthy nervous system. Similar to lavender, Clary Sage can help with rest and relaxation as well.
Lavender
gyalabs.com
Lavender essential oil is made from distilling the fresh flowers of several species of lavender. Its appearance varies between being colorless, yellow, or somewhere on a yellowish-green spectrum. It has a pleasant aroma but a bitter taste. Its relaxing, uplifting, and revitalizing effects can help improve your mood.
Patchouli
nowfoods.com
Patchouli, an aromatic oil obtained from a Southeast Asian shrub, is used in perfumery, insecticides, and medicine. From mouthwashes to soaps, it is highly appreciated for its scent and is known as a grounding and calming aroma.
What to Look for in the Best Essential Oils
Getting started in the world of essential oils can be overwhelming due to the amount of information, uses, interpretations, and varieties that are available. That is why having concise information on what to look for in your oils will always result in a better experience.
Three factors you should always consider when looking for essential oils are the quality, the price, and the bottle.
Quality
The best aromatherapy oils must be 100% pure and organic with a scent that properly corresponds to the part of the plant from which it was extracted. If that is not the case, you may have reason to suspect that the oil is a sham that contains additives or fillers. One important factor in quality is the extraction method. Look for products that are USDA-certified organic whenever possible to be sure that the plants and flowers used are free from pesticides.
The extraction method is the process used in order to achieve the separation of aromatic compounds from the physical plant. These processes largely determine the quality standard of the final product. Find an oil extracted by the following organic methods to guarantee that toxic solvents sometimes used for such separation are not in your essential oil.
The first is cold-pressed extraction. This is the more popular option for essential citrus oils, and works by exposing the skin of the fruit or pericarp to mechanical pressure.
Steam distillation, which works by subjecting bits of plant matter to a stream of water vapor, is the other preferred extraction method. The essence is condensed in this process and then collected by separating it from the water. While there are other methods to distill essential oils, these are the best to guarantee quality.
Pricing
Next up is the question of pricing. While we can be wary of the "higher price, higher quality" theory in some products, you shouldn't look to skimp on essential oils. Prices can also vary widely between different types of oils. It is rare to walk into a shop and find all of the essential oil extractions are priced the same. If the oils are truly 100% natural, they shouldn't share the same price since not all plants are equally as accessible.
Costs can vary depending on the raw material used, transportation costs, and special storage requirements, making the final value vary a lot. For example, the number of roses required to extract an ounce of oil is quite high, unlike lavender which is much more accessible. This is why the price of these two oils will be very different if it is a 100% original extraction. You can find many popular essential oil brands like doTerra, Plant Therapy, Aura Cacia, and Vitruvi on Amazon that offer pure essential oils. Always be sure to check for the signs of quality when purchasing.
Bottle
Finally, the essential oil bottle should always be made of glass and carry a dark tint. Look for a blue, amber, or dark brown tonality. This is crucial because most essential oils are very volatile and evaporate quickly in contact with the light. Remember, plastic is the bigger enemy here. If quality matters to you, essential oils should be bottled and stored with the same care as you would expect with an expensive bottle of wine.
How Does Aromatherapy Work?
A Persian doctor, Avicenna, wrote extensively on health and wellness and is known as the father of aromatherapy. Still, it was actually René-Maurice Gattefosse (chemist and perfumer) who coined the term. This ancient practice is widely used around the world because its effects are rapid and widely recognized. For many people, tapping into the power of the mind, and calming the soul, is seen as a more desirable solution to their ailments than daunting prescriptions.
One interesting explanation for why aromatherapy may work for many people is that the part of the brain that associates odors is the same part of the brain that deals with memory. Stimulating this part of the brain generates a response in the body naturally. The smell is undoubtedly one of the most primitive senses since it allows messages to be sent through the nervous system to the limbic system, the part of the brain that controls emotions.
What are the Benefits of Essential Oils?
Inhaling or applying essential oils activates the hypothalamus, which is the brain area in charge of sending messages to other parts of the body. Benefits mentioned by consumers include promoting sensations of clear breathing, providing digestive well-being, boosting the immune system, creating a relaxing environment for rest, as well as contributing to a multitude of skin, hair, and teeth benefits.
Even though they are very rare, the few adverse side effects reported are mucous, skin, and eye irritations. Most of the cases recorded are due to inadequate storage conditions.
What is the Best Way to Use Essential Oils?
There are two main ways to best access the benefits of essential oils: aromatic application and topical application.
Aromatic Application
The first option involves the smelling or inhalation of your essential oil's aroma through direct inhalation, diffusion, or evaporation. The last two are typically done through diffusers, humidifiers, or using essential oil burners. Essential oil diffusers are an easy and generally inexpensive way to enjoy your essential oil through a device that disperses essential oils into the air through evaporation, or steam. Ease of use, stream intensity, water capacity, and appearance are items to look for when buying one.
Using a diffuser is as simple as choosing the place where you will enjoy your aromatherapy session. It is important to be aware of any allergies or medical conditions of other people who may be around, and if there are children, pets, or pregnant women. Then fill the water tank of the diffuser with clean water at room temperature and add a few drops of the oil. The regular capacity of diffusers is 100ml and it is advisable to use 4 to 6 drops of your essential oil. This quantity varies depending on the taste of the person, the size of the room as well as its temperature.
Topical Application
Applying essential oils on the skin, or topical application, is another way to use them. But for this method, it is important to know which dilutions and carrier oils to use, so you don't accidentally irritate the skin. The most common way to massage the oil onto the body is with a lotion, cream, roll-on, or carrier oil like coconut oil. This way the aromatic molecules are able to penetrate the skin.
In body massages the oil can be rubbed on pressure points such as your temples, wrists, forehead, or even feet. Again, being mindful of the dilution rate is key. Fifteen drops per one ounce of base oil are the standard for an adult, giving a 2.5% dilution rate. Warm compresses on the forehead and neck with a few drops are also recommended or applying approximately 2 -12 drops of essential oil to a bath, including the dispersing agent.
And remember, any questions or concerns you have about the composition, use, or effects of the oils as a treatment for any condition or simply their use for fun should be consulted with a certified doctor.
Discover the Benefits of the Best Essential Oils
Our ancestors used the natural world to take care of themselves and their families. As long as they're created in an environmentally sustainable fashion, essential oils and essential oil blends can continue to serve us today by promoting mental, physical, and spiritual well-being.
Sarita Vanegas is a writer based in Medellín, Columbia, where she covers environmentally-friendly products, natural health, and plant-based remedies. A former Baselang teacher, she is also passionate about learning languages and exploring other cultures.
Eye-Catching Designs Made from Recycled Plastic Bottles
The company sells a range of eco-friendly items like leggings, rash guards, and board shorts that are made using recycled post-consumer plastic bottles. There are currently 16 causes represented by distinct marine-life patterns, from whale shark research and invasive lionfish removal to sockeye salmon monitoring and abalone restoration.
One such organization is Get Inspired, a nonprofit that specializes in ocean restoration and environmental education. Get Inspired founder, marine biologist Nancy Caruso, says supporting on-the-ground efforts is one thing that sets Waterlust apart, like their apparel line that supports Get Inspired abalone restoration programs.
"All of us [conservation partners] are doing something," Caruso said. "We're not putting up exhibits and talking about it — although that is important — we're in the field."
Waterlust not only helps its conservation partners financially so they can continue their important work. It also helps them get the word out about what they're doing, whether that's through social media spotlights, photo and video projects, or the informative note card that comes with each piece of apparel.
"They're doing their part for sure, pushing the information out across all of their channels, and I think that's what makes them so interesting," Caruso said.
And then there are the clothes, which speak for themselves.
Advocate Apparel to Start Conversations About Conservation
Waterlust's concept of "advocate apparel" encourages people to see getting dressed every day as an opportunity to not only express their individuality and style, but also to advance the conversation around marine science. By infusing science into clothing, people can visually represent species and ecosystems in need of advocacy — something that, more often than not, leads to a teaching moment.
"When people wear Waterlust gear, it's just a matter of time before somebody asks them about the bright, funky designs," said Waterlust's CEO, Patrick Rynne. "That moment is incredibly special, because it creates an intimate opportunity for the wearer to share what they've learned with another."
The idea for the company came to Rynne when he was a Ph.D. student in marine science.
"I was surrounded by incredible people that were discovering fascinating things but noticed that often their work wasn't reaching the general public in creative and engaging ways," he said. "That seemed like a missed opportunity with big implications."
Waterlust initially focused on conventional media, like film and photography, to promote ocean science, but the team quickly realized engagement on social media didn't translate to action or even knowledge sharing offscreen.
Rynne also saw the "in one ear, out the other" issue in the classroom — if students didn't repeatedly engage with the topics they learned, they'd quickly forget them.
"We decided that if we truly wanted to achieve our goal of bringing science into people's lives and have it stick, it would need to be through a process that is frequently repeated, fun, and functional," Rynne said. "That's when we thought about clothing."
Support Marine Research and Sustainability in Style
To date, Waterlust has sold tens of thousands of pieces of apparel in over 100 countries, and the interactions its products have sparked have had clear implications for furthering science communication.
For Caruso alone, it's led to opportunities to share her abalone restoration methods with communities far and wide.
"It moves my small little world of what I'm doing here in Orange County, California, across the entire globe," she said. "That's one of the beautiful things about our partnership."
Check out all of the different eco-conscious apparel options available from Waterlust to help promote ocean conservation.
Melissa Smith is an avid writer, scuba diver, backpacker, and all-around outdoor enthusiast. She graduated from the University of Florida with degrees in journalism and sustainable studies. Before joining EcoWatch, Melissa worked as the managing editor of Scuba Diving magazine and the communications manager of The Ocean Agency, a non-profit that's featured in the Emmy award-winning documentary Chasing Coral.
Each product featured here has been independently selected by the writer. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
Best Overall: Green Estate Reusable Makeup Remover Pads
GreenEstateGoods.com
The super soft Green Estate Reusable Makeup Remover Pads are designed with a dark side for removing makeup and a light side for applying toner or moisturizer. This way, you won't see stains as easily, making them look newer for longer. Additionally, you don't need to use a facial cleansing product with these. Just wet with warm water, and makeup wipes away, which is great for sensitive skin.
These microfiber reusable cotton rounds come in packs of 14, and with each purchase Green Estate plants a tree through partner Eden Reforestation Projects. To date, the company has planted more than 55,000 trees, which has provided over 550 days of reliable work for people living in extreme poverty.
Customer rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars with almost 4,000 Amazon reviews
Why buy: Machine washable; Includes zippered pouch for washing; Tree planted for every purchase; Plastic-free shipping when purchased from manufacturer
Best Basic Option: Paula's Choice Reusable Makeup Remover Pads
PaulasChoice.com
If you're looking for a basic option, try Paula's Choice Reusable Makeup Remover Pads, which are made from a 70% bamboo/30% cotton material. Paula's Choice is a Leaping Bunny-certified, 100% cruelty-free skincare brand that works with Terracycle® to recycle its bottles, tubes and other containers after you run out of product.
Many brands include a drawstring cotton laundry bag for washing and drying, but based on our experience, even when the strings are knotted, these can still open and allow the rounds to escape. We like that the Paula's Choice 10-count reusable cotton rounds come with a zippered pouch, which is less likely to open up in the laundry.
Customer rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars with over 10 Amazon reviews
Why buy: Machine washable; Leaping Bunny-certified brand; Includes zippered pouch for washingBest Textured: LastRound Reusable Cotton Pads
LastObject.com
LastRound Reusable Cotton Pads divert waste from entering landfills and waterways in more ways than one. Aside from having an average lifespan of 1,750 uses, the production of the pads and convenient case utilizes cotton and plastic that would otherwise be trashed.
The textured pads are made from a blend of 70% Scandinavian wood fibers (locally sourced by the Denmark-based company) and 30% cotton fibers that are too short to be used in standard textiles. There are two versions of the case that holds seven pads — one is made from plant-based materials and the other is made from recycled ocean-bound plastic in collaboration with ReSea Project.
Customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars with almost 10 Amazon reviews
Why buy: Machine washable; Case made from plant-based material or recycled ocean-bound plastic; Plastic-free packaging
Best Handmade: Marley's Monsters Reusable Facial Rounds
MarleysMonsters.com
Marley's Monsters made a name for itself with its UNpaper® towels, which take the place of traditional paper towels, and it's since branched out into other home and beauty products. The company's 20-packs of Reusable Facial Rounds are handmade in Eugene, Oregon, with two layers of 100% cotton flannel for durability and long-term use.
One thing we like about Marley's Monsters is its commitment to local sustainability. It's BRING rethink-certified, a designation given by a nonprofit recycling company in Eugene to companies that practice conservation in the realms of materials and waste, energy, water and supply chain management. Marley's Monsters also won the 2021 Bold Steps Award, which recognizes eco-friendly Eugene-based businesses.
Customer rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars with almost 10 Amazon reviews
Why buy: Handmade; Machine washable; BRING rethink-certified; Includes mesh drawstring pouch for washing; Recyclable and compostable shipping when purchased from manufacturerWhy Make the Switch to Reusable Cotton Rounds?
There are a few reasons we recommend switching to reusable cotton rounds versus single-use cotton pads, cotton balls or makeup wipes.
First, non-organic cotton is considered the "world's dirtiest crop" due to its heavy use of pesticides. According to the Environmental Justice Foundation, cotton production accounts for 2.5% of the world's cultivated land but 16% of global insecticide releases — $2 billion worth of chemical pesticides are sprayed on the crops each year. Although cotton undergoes a washing process before it's manufactured into goods, that cheap sleeve of cotton pads you get from the grocery store is still likely to contain harmful chemicals.
Second, reusables are much better for the environment. If you use two cotton rounds per day, it adds up to 730 per year. If they're 100% cotton and are only used with natural products, they can be composted. However, if you use them to remove conventional makeup, which can include toxins and plastics, they'll need to go in the trash. Plus, they typically come in flimsy plastic that isn't accepted by most municipal recycling centers.
Additionally, according to the World Wildlife Federation, many experts say cotton uses the most water of any agricultural commodity. One figure even estimates that it takes 20,000 liters of water to create just 1 kilogram of cotton.
Create an Eco-Friendly Beauty Routine With Reusable Cotton Rounds
By switching to reusable cotton pads, you're reducing the amount of cotton you use over time, which equates to less waste and less water used to keep up with your skincare.
Melissa Smith is an avid writer, scuba diver, backpacker, and all-around outdoor enthusiast. She graduated from the University of Florida with degrees in journalism and sustainable studies. Before joining EcoWatch, Melissa worked as the managing editor of Scuba Diving magazine and the communications manager of The Ocean Agency, a non-profit that's featured in the Emmy award-winning documentary Chasing Coral.
Fortunately, there are a lot of simple things you can do from the comfort of your own home to keep toxins out of your body, flush them out of your system faster, and boost your immunity all at the same time, says Dr. Bill Rawls, Medical Director of Vital Plan. He shares his top 10 strategies below.
1. Source Your Food Wisely
Try to stay away from packaged and processed foods that contain ingredients you can't pronounce, and instead reach for fresh food from natural sources. Aim to make vegetables more than 50% of your daily diet — their fiber is a great natural binder, and they're full of beneficial phytochemicals — and minimize your red meat consumption.
Also, whenever practical, choose organic over conventional products. That said, we know organic prices and accessibility can be an issue, so for help making strategic decisions, refer to the Environmental Working Group (EWG) "Dirty Dozen" and "Clean Fifteen" lists:
The Dirty Dozen:
- Strawberries
- Spinach
- Kale
- Nectarines
- Apples
- Grapes
- Peaches
- Cherries
- Pears
- Tomatoes
- Celery
- Potatoes
- Raisins*
(*While raisins aren't technically a fresh food, the EWG found that they are "one of the dirtiest produce commodities on the market — and even some organic raisins are contaminated.")
The Clean Fifteen
- Avocado
- Sweet corn
- Pineapple
- Onion
- Papaya
- Frozen sweet peas
- Eggplant
- Asparagus
- Cauliflower
- Cantaloupe
- Broccoli
- Mushrooms
- Cabbage
- Honeydew
- Kiwi
2. Consider Detoxifying and Immune-Boosting Herbs
There are a number of herbs and natural ingredients that can help support detoxification and immune health. Here are the ones at the top of Dr. Rawls' list:
Chlorella: This nutrient-rich freshwater algae binds to toxins so they can be eliminated from your body more efficiently. Chlorella works particularly well for withdrawing heavy metals. Pure chlorella can be purchased in the form of bulk powder, tablets, or capsules.
Milk Thistle: It's been used for thousands of years to support a healthy liver, the primary organ responsible for detoxification.
Dandelion: Known to help support liver function, research suggests dandelion helps promote the body's natural detoxification and elimination processes.
Bitters: Bitter flavors are important to digestion — they stimulate the release of the saliva, enzymes, and bile that help break down your food. Include bitter herbs and foods in each meal, or take a botanical extract that blends bitter herbs like dandelion root, burdock root, orange peel, and gentian root
Reishi mushroom: An extensively studied adaptogenic mushroom, reishi has exceptional immunomodulating and antiviral properties. It helps normalize inflammatory cytokines and promotes healthy immune response against threatening microbes.
Rhodiola: Another adaptogen, rhodiola improves stress tolerance by reducing fatigue, supporting energy levels, and improving tissue oxygenation.
Turmeric: This popular spice is well loved for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Shilajit: An herbo-mineral adaptogen, shilajit has a long history of use in traditional Indian medicine for longevity and strength. It's also an immunomodulator with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties.
Gotu Kola: Best known for improving memory and mood, gotu kola is also great for promoting a normal response to inflammation, balancing stress hormones, and supporting circulation.
Shop Vital Plan Pure Chlorella
Vital Plan is a certified B Corporation — one of only eight supplement companies recognized for achieving the highest standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. If you make a purchase using the link above, EcoWatch may earn a commission.
3. Filter Your Water
Much of America's tap water has been shown to contain pollutants, so filtering what comes out of your kitchen sink is smart. To be sure you're using a filter that does the trick, keep these guidelines in mind:
- Look for a filter certified by NSF International or the Water Quality Association.
- Choose one that removes the contaminants in your water (check your local drinking water quality report to see what's present).
- Change your water filters on time.
4. Choose Safe and Effective Cleaning Supplies
When buying household cleaning products, don't bring home chemicals that could harm your health more than some of the microbes you're trying to get rid of. Fortunately, there are a number of products on the market that work safely; here are some ways to shop wisely:
- Look for the Green Seal, Ecologo, or Safer Choice (EPA) seals.
- Opt for fragrance-free options.
- Avoid triclosan and quaternary ammonium compounds or "quats." (One tactic is to choose products that don't advertise as "antibacterial.")
- Consult the EWG's list of safe and effective products for guarding against coronavirus.
5. Opt for Non-Toxic Beauty and Personal Care Products
There are a lot of claims made on beauty and self-care products these days, but words alone, like "natural," "organic," "non-toxic," "clean," "green," and "eco-friendly," don't mean a thing — they aren't backed by any sort of regulatory or certification processes. Instead, to find non-toxic products you trust, you have to do a little research.
Start by checking reputable ratings databases like Skin Deep (EWG) and Think Dirty. Another good bet: Look for reliable third-party certifications on products labels, including:
- USDA Organic
- EWG Verified
- Made Safe
- NSF/ANSI 305
- Natural Products Association Certified
- Whole Foods Market Premium Body Care
6. Get Outside
One more reason to get outdoors beyond combatting cabin fever: The air in natural environments is generally much cleaner than indoor air. For one, outdoor air contains ⅔ less carbon dioxide, high levels of which negatively affect our productivity, sleep, and more.
Forest air in particular contains phytoncides, organic compounds emitted by trees and plants that have been shown to boost our immune system function, plus plants in general help neutralize toxic substances in the air. Forests, open spaces, and open water are also rich in negative ions, which reduce inflammation.
So take your pick of natural environs, and get out there as often as possible — while still maintaining at least 6 feet of distance between yourself and others, of course.
7. Bring Nature Indoors
Plants are natural air purifiers, so bringing some plants indoors can help clear the air in your home. Here's a list of the top 10 air-purifying plants to consider:
- Areca palm
- Lady palm
- Bamboo palm
- Rubber plant
- Dracaena
- English ivy
- Dwarf date palm
- Ficus
- Boston fern
- Peace lily
8. Drive Less, Move More
Staying off the roads decreases air pollution, and the fact that many of us are driving less these days is noticeably improving air quality. If your commute is on hold, try to translate some of your usual travel time into getting more physical activity, or sneak in more movement between other normal routines.
Exercise improves circulation, oxygenates your tissues, and enhances the work of the lymphatic system through muscle contractions — all of which make it easier to move toxins out of your body.
9. Practice Forgiveness
Through the practice of gratitude, we stay centered and in the present moment. This allows us to move through situations from our heart. Take time to forgive someone or yourself for things in the past. When we forgive, we expand and open up to endless possibilities.
10. Quit a Bad Habit
Are you a smoker? Pack rat? Chronically sleep-deprived? In a bad relationship? Toxins come into our lives in many forms. Consider if you're participating in any unhealthy patterns or holding onto anything that no longer serves you, and then find a way to limit those things in your life.
Dr. Rawls is a licensed medical doctor in North Carolina and a leading expert in integrative health. He has extensive training in alternative therapies, and is the Medical Director of Vital Plan, a holistic health and herbal supplement company in Raleigh, NC.
Reposted with permission from Vital Plan.
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Although BCPP was only able to test a small fraction of the market (32 products), BCPP's main findings raise concern and confirm the need for transparency of ingredients in products used in our homes. Almost 100 of the over 300 fragrance chemicals identified were linked to adverse health effects. Of the products tested by BCPP, the product that contained the most fragrance chemicals linked to health concerns was Just for Me Shampoo, a shampoo aimed at children of color, with popular perfumes following closely behind.
And it's not just fragrance ingredients. BCPP found a total of 24 chemicals of concern, 14 of which were fragrance chemicals, in Just for Me Shampoo—including four carcinogens, 19 hormone disruptors, six developmental toxicants and three chemicals that can trigger, or worsen, respiratory problems, like asthma.
Due to a loophole, fragrance ingredients are not required to be disclosed in personal care products or cleaning products; and until recently, there were no requirements for disclosure of ingredients in cosmetics used in professional setting or in cleaning products in general. This year California became the first state in the U.S. to extend retail cosmetic ingredient disclosure requirements to products used by salon workers. And last year, with the passage of the NRDC co-sponsored Cleaning Products Right to Know Act of 2017 n California, manufacturers of cleaning products will have to disclose the majority of the ingredients in their products on labels and online. The Act's disclosure requirements include fragrance ingredients, the first and only product category with fragrance disclosure requirements.
The BCPP report confirms the importance of California's ground-breaking legislation, and the need for expanded transparency and ingredient disclosure for all consumer product categories. The "right-to-know" what is in the products we use and what is being released into our environment is essential to protecting public health and the environment.
The lack of fragrance ingredient disclosure, in combination with a largely unregulated fragrance industry, leaves consumers, health agencies and advocates in the dark about what chemicals people are being exposed to. The research and testing that has been done suggests that many of the chemicals used in fragrance are associated with health hazards such as reproductive and developmental harm, hormone disruption, cancer, neurotoxicity, and respiratory and skin irritation and sensitization.
BCPP Product Testing Report
To shed some light on the "fragrance" black box, BCPP tested 25 personal care and 7 cleaning products and compared chemicals identified to the International Fragrance Association ingredient transparency list. BCPP then used the Chemical Hazards Data Commons developed by the Healthy Building Network to determine which identified chemicals were linked to adverse effects such as cancer, asthma, reproductive harm, hormone disruption and aquatic toxicity.
BCPP concluded that more than a quarter of the 338 fragrance ingredients they identified were linked to adverse health effects; and of the total chemicals linked to adverse health effects in each product, a high percentage of them were fragrance chemicals. And it's not just fragrance ingredients; cosmetics and cleaning products also contain other chemicals that can be really harmful as well.
Examples of chemicals of concern found in tested products include:
- Toluene – used as a solvent in industry and in consumer products such as paint thinners and nail polish; linked to endocrine disruption, reproductive and developmental harm, neurotoxicity, and skin irritation
- Parabens – antimicrobials used in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics; associated with hormone disruption, cancer, and reproductive harm
- Phthalates – used to in fragrances and to soften plastics; associated with neurotoxicity, reproductive harm, hormone disruption and obesity
- Benzophenones – prevent damage from light to scents and colors in fragrances and personal care products; linked to cancer and hormone disruption
While this report does not quantify the concentration of each chemical, the presence of unlabeled chemicals linked to such a broad array of health effects should raise concerns for consumers and the public health community, especially given how often an average person is exposed to personal care and cleaning products in their daily lives. For example, a NGO-led survey found that the average woman uses 12 personal care products a day.
The Most Vulnerable
Some populations are more sensitive and/or vulnerable to the effects of toxic chemicals that are often found in personal care and cleaning products. Children and adolescents are still developing and are especially vulnerable to the effects of hormone disruptors and developmental toxicants. Additionally, research suggests that when pregnant women are exposed to environmental toxicants, even at extremely low levels, fetal development can be disrupted. Advertising that promotes mainstream beauty norms may influence and increase the use by women of color of products such as skin lighteners and hair straighteners, many of which contain chemicals of concern. Finally, workers such as custodians, cleaners and cosmetologist are disproportionally exposed to these products and any toxic ingredients they contain.
While BCPP's testing represents a limited sample, it is worth noting that many of the products BCPP tested are often marketed to and used by vulnerable populations.
Conclusion
This report illustrates the need for full ingredient disclosure in all consumer products, because:
- Consumers need this information to make safer, more informed purchases for themselves and their families;
- Workers need this information take the necessary steps to protect themselves from unsafe chemical exposures in the workplace;
- Regulators need this information to effectively regulate consumer products to better protect public health and the environment; and
- Companies could also benefit from lower reputational risk.