Feeling tense or have a headache? There’s nothing more calming than the scent of natural alternatives like lemon or lavender. But beware, the chemicals in that scented candle you lit earlier might be the culprits behind your headache, itching, or even respiratory problems.
Recent studies indicate that manufactured fragrances can negatively affect us, much like how white lead was once unknowingly used in cosmetics for centuries. The same qualities that make fragrances easy to vaporize and delightful to smell also make them highly reactive, which can trigger immune reactions.
It’s no surprise that there’s a surge in demand for ‘natural’ fragrances, with the industry expected to hit $4.3 billion in the next few years. However, this can be misleading. All fragrances, even natural ones, are chemicals. Just because a fragrance is labeled ‘natural’ doesn’t automatically mean it’s safe. Fragrance expert Karen Gilbert explains that every scent, regardless of its source, is subjected to toxicology testing, and allergens must be listed. Ironically, the only way to have a fragrance without allergens is for it to be entirely synthetic, because nature itself is unpredictable and essential oils are often packed with allergens.
To bring scent into your home without chemical fragrances, consider using the raw materials that these scents claim to emulate. Fresh flowers, although pricey, can fill a room with natural scents—choose ones with open blooms and buds for longevity. Indoor plants like eucalyptus, gardenias, Cuban oregano, and corsage orchids offer a lasting and natural aroma, even if they’re not always the most visually appealing.
Common cooking herbs like parsley, sage, and basil also provide pleasant aromas when planted in a kitchen garden. For a DIY air freshener, boil water with rosemary and let it simmer, then once cooled, transfer it to a spray bottle and refrigerate. This method works with other scents like lemon, lavender, or mint too.
Try other natural alternatives like baking vanilla extract for fragrance or making a citrus herb cleaning spray with heated white vinegar. This is more environmentally friendly than chemical-laden products. Even everyday products can be swapped with more natural options. For instance, mix baking soda with rosemary and lavender essential oil for a carpet freshener. Sprinkle it, let it sit for a bit, and then vacuum it up. Baking soda is great at absorbing smells.
While these natural alternatives may need more effort and don’t last as long as conventional products, the environmental benefits are clear. The push for ‘natural’ fragrances will likely be driven by sustainability rather than health concerns. If you think manufactured scents, be they synthetic or natural, are causing you problems, it’s worth trying out these simple, homemade solutions. Boiling rosemary to let its comforting scent fill your home is a much better option than lighting a candle and being overwhelmed by a concoction meant to mimic a Zen Evening.
