Using Natural Scents vs. "Fragrance"

Natural scents say exactly what they are scents that come from nature.  Fragrance is an ingredient in many cosmetic, hygiene, and household products.  Companies market the bottle like it contains natural scents, but read the ingredients.  I bet you will find fragrance in the list.  Natural scents that I use with my family include using Young Living's therapeutic grade essential oils.  I use these essential oils to make all kinds of products for myself and my family.  Perfume is one thing that I ditched as soon as I stated researching fragrance.  I now make my own :)

Why is Fragrance a "Bad" Ingredient?

According to EWG (Environmental Working Group - a great resource if you haven't already heard of them), companies can legally use the word "fragrance" as a cover for any number of chemicals used to create a scent.  Many of these chemicals have been linked to weight gain, respiratory problems and other minor - but unnecessary - issues.

Using products with these chemicals is not good for your body's endocrine system.  This is the system that controls your hormones, which have a direct impact on many things that happen inside your body.  Even more disturbing, these companies are not always required to test their products to make sure that they are safe for human use.

Here's what EWG's website states: "under U.S. law, the term fragrance is defined as a combination of chemicals that gives each perfume or cologne its distinct scent."

This is not something that I will voluntarily expose my body to!

What are the Natural Alternatives?

I choose to say no to harsh and harmful chemicals, especially ones that will be sprayed onto my skin and clothes!  I don't want to breathe that in all day!  Instead, I make my own diffuser jewelry and add pure essential oils to fabric inside the locket.  The scent is pleasing to the nose, and packs extra body benefits.  Joy is what I commonly use to boost my mood throughout the day.  Smelling a scent is a great way to gain access to your body's cells.  There is a direct path from the nose to the brain.  Scents are a powerful thing, and I want to steer clear of harmful chemicals whenever and wherever possible.

Do your own research.  I bet you will be surprised at the information that you find. First, the food industry's complete lack of concern for the consumer, now the cosmetic industry carries that same integrity (or lack thereof).  You must be educated and seek the knowledge out for yourself.  It seems like we are doing so many things wrong!  Any small change that you can make is for the better.

This is one of my favorite diffusers that has replaced candles in our home.

Interested in taking the plunge to get healthier?  Try to cut out one major source of fragrance in your home today!  Candles, body wash, lotion, scented cleaning products?  Remember, your family's health is at stake!

For even more info on toxins, watch the video below: 

Young Living has created a sister company called Wyld Notes and now sells amazing fragrances! Read more about it here.