Naphthalene Balls: Most Indian homes use Naphthalene Balls routinely to prevent infestation of clothing and other susceptible items from insects. However, these synthetic mothballs come with hidden environmental and health costs. Mission Clean Bharat and Mission Clean Doon founder Surabhi Singh Topwal shares her tips on how to instead choose home-based remedies.
Health Hazards of Exposure To Naphthalene Balls
Naphthalene, which is derived from coal tar, tends to sublimate even at room temperature into toxic vapours. Acute exposure to this polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon can irritate mucous membranes, resulting in nausea, headaches, fatigue, dizziness and gastrointestinal distress.
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In acute cases, Naphthalene can trigger haemolytic anaemia via oxidation of the red blood cells, resulting in dark urine, oxygen deprivation and jaundice.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency classifies naphthalene as a possible human carcinogen (Group C), which is associated with nasal tumours in animal studies and potential leukaemia risks. Children and pets (especially cats) tend to absorb its vapours faster and metabolize it poorly causing higher breathing rates and liver failure from grooming residues, respectively.
Alternatives To Naphthalene Balls
- You can try out Cedarwood Blocks/Chips with fresh cedar heartwood as its primary ingredient to kill larvae via thujaplicin oil. Simply put 200g per wardrobe shelf and make sure to refresh it annually.
- You can even consider Lavender Sachets (50g dried lavender buds + cotton pouch) to mask the breeding of pheromones. For best results, add rosemary or mint and shake it monthly.
- 100g dried neem leaves or 50g neem leaf powder may also be used as Azadirachtin disrupts moth life cycle. You can tuck it into pockets and folds and even combine it with garlic peels.
- You may use 20-30 whole cloves along with 10 bay leaves as Eugenol confuses insects. You may pierce orange skin with cloves for citrus boost.
Embrace these toxin-free hacks now for a healthier, greener home!
Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides general information only. It is not a substitute for a qualified medical opinion in any way. The methods and claims mentioned in this article should be considered as suggestions only; DNP India neither confirms nor denies them. Always consult a doctor before following any such suggestions/treatments/medications/diets.