Chasing Life

The Dirty Truth About Showering and Handwashing

10 snips
Sep 16, 2025
Explore the health implications of using diffusers and essential oils. Discover how cultural influences shape our personal hygiene habits, challenging the need for daily showers. Delve into the debate over the necessity of soap and the timing for effective handwashing. Learn about the delicate balance between maintaining hygiene and allowing controlled dirt exposure to strengthen children's immune systems. It's a thought-provoking discussion on what cleanliness truly means.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
INSIGHT

Essential Oils Release VOCs

  • Essential oils emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that become gases in the air and can affect the respiratory system.
  • Sensitivity varies by person and oils can produce secondary pollutants or contain unknown contaminants.
INSIGHT

Regulation Gap Raises Uncertainty

  • Essential oils are largely unregulated in the U.S., so composition and contaminants can vary widely between bottles and brands.
  • That lack of regulation makes individual reactions unpredictable and sometimes creates harmful secondary pollutants.
ADVICE

Use Diffusers Safely

  • Follow the diffuser manufacturer's directions and dilute essential oils properly to avoid irritation.
  • Ensure good ventilation and stop use if you develop cough, throat irritation, shortness of breath, headaches, or skin reactions.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app