Safer alternatives to commonly used products & services

Chemical-Free Pest Control

Commonly used pest control products contain highly toxic ingredients such as organophosphates and carbamates, which affect the central nervous system of all exposed mammals - human and insect. Hazardous pest control chemicals have been linked to cancer in children, attention deficit disorders, poor immunity, disfunction of the endocrine system, (particularly the thyroid gland), and the increase of environmental illness such as multiple chemical sensitivity, chronic fatigue syndrome and allergies.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a new approach to controlling pests, combining physical, cultural, biological and chemical methods. Toxic chemicals are used as a last resort.

A useful insect repellant and air freshener is made by adding a few drops of tea-tree, lavender, geranium or lemongrass oil to a water mister. Also try neem oil. See also the new plant-based head lice treatments - new from from Western Australia - Wild Child.