Dangers of Herbicide + Natural Alternatives

Dangers of Herbicide + Natural Alternatives

The Dangers of Herbicide aka Glyphosate

Many people don't realize how dangerous herbicides are; they are a toxic agent that people spray all around their properties, in their yards, trailing it into your homes, endangering children and pets, and breathing it in the air around you. If you knew just how serious this was, you would never go around a property that sprayed it again! Glyphosate is basically an extreme version of plant cancer; it grows the plant to death. Some people even call it "Agent Orange" because of its history.

Here in Arizona, unfortunately, it is one of the worst places to use this substance; here is why! Companies that use these herbicides usually buy the product in bulk powders and mix it with water. Once sprayed, this substance dries and becomes a powder again on our dry desert floors. Since we do not get consistent or deep enough rains, the powder remains on the surface of the dirt and gets blown up in the air with every gust and the hot sun cooks the chemicals around you like an oven emanating the invisible spray. Most of the time, people spray herbicide on plants and then have to hula hoe them up anyway; they might as well just hula hoe them out naturally to begin with!

Why Glyphosate is Sometimes Called "Agent Orange"

Many people associate glyphosate with "Agent Orange" due to its controversial history and the dangers associated with herbicides. Here are some reasons for this comparison:

1. Historical Context

Agent Orange was a herbicide used during the Vietnam War, primarily for defoliation. It contained dioxins, which are highly toxic compounds linked to severe health issues. Glyphosate, while chemically different, is also a potent herbicide that raises concerns due to its potential health effects.

2. Toxicity Concerns

Both glyphosate and Agent Orange have been scrutinized for their toxicity. Glyphosate is known to disrupt plant growth and can have harmful effects on human health and the environment. The fear of exposure to toxic chemicals leads some to draw parallels between the two substances.

3. Environmental Impact

The use of glyphosate can lead to significant environmental issues, similar to those caused by Agent Orange. It affects not only the targeted plants but also surrounding ecosystems & wildlife, leading to biodiversity loss and soil degradation.

Health Risks Associated with Herbicide

The health risks associated with glyphosate exposure are alarming and should not be taken lightly. Studies have suggested a link between glyphosate and various health issues, including cancer, particularly non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The chemical has been classified as a probable human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), raising serious concerns about its safety. Additionally, glyphosate can disrupt the endocrine system, potentially leading to reproductive and developmental problems. Prolonged exposure may also result in skin irritations and respiratory issues, particularly for those who handle the chemical directly or are frequently in treated areas. As awareness of these dangers grows, many individuals are seeking safer alternatives for weed control that do not pose such significant health risks. Numerous individuals have reported their pets falling seriously ill or even dying after herbicides were used in their yards, raising important concerns about the health and safety of children. Makes you wonder why people even use it?

Impact on Children

Children are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of herbicides due to their developing bodies and higher likelihood of hand-to-mouth behaviors. Exposure to glyphosate can occur through direct contact with treated surfaces, inhalation of airborne particles, or ingestion of contaminated food and water. Furthermore, children may play in areas where herbicides have been applied, increasing their risk of exposure.

Impact on Pets

Pets, especially dogs and cats, are also at risk as they often roam freely in areas treated with herbicides. They can ingest harmful chemicals through grooming or by walking on contaminated grass. Symptoms of glyphosate poisoning in pets can include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy, and in severe cases, it can lead to long-term health issues or death.

Conclusion

Given the potential health hazards associated with glyphosate, it is crucial for families to consider the implications of herbicide use not only for themselves but also for their children and pets. Exploring organic or non-toxic alternatives for weed control can significantly reduce these risks and promote a healthier environment for all.

Risks of Glyphosate Use

Glyphosate poses several risks, especially in areas like Arizona where conditions exacerbate its dangers:

1. Residual Powder

In arid regions, glyphosate can dry and form a powder on the surface of the soil. This residue can easily become airborne, increasing the risk of inhalation and exposure to humans and animals.

2. Ineffective Practices

Many individuals spray glyphosate on weeds only to find they need to remove the plants manually afterward. This raises questions about the efficiency and necessity of using such a toxic herbicide when natural methods, like hula hoeing, could be employed instead. It also does nothing to stop the seeds from spreading and growing.

3. Health Risks

Exposure to glyphosate has been linked to various health issues, including cancer. The concern over long-term exposure, especially in residential areas, is a significant reason why many advocate for caution or a ban on its use. In summary, the comparison of glyphosate to Agent Orange stems from its toxicity, environmental impact, and the health risks associated with herbicide use. Understanding these dangers is crucial for making informed decisions about pest control and landscaping practices.

Why Do People Use It?

People have been conditioned to use weed sprays as an "easier" method to eliminate weeds. They think that even a single dandelion requires spraying instead of simply pulling it out. They've lost sight of the fundamentals. While they believe they are saving time and money, unfortunately that is exactly what they are losing and these "savings" will end up costing them in the future. It's quite unfortunate. Some individuals are stuck in this programming and are unwilling to consider alternatives, leading to negative consequences and dysfunction.

Impact on wildlife

Glyphosate, a widely used herbicide, poses significant risks not only to agricultural crops but also to desert ecosystems and their inhabitants. Desert animals, particularly those that are herbivorous, can be adversely affected by glyphosate exposure through contaminated plants. As glyphosate disrupts the growth of native vegetation, it can lead to a reduction in food sources for these animals, ultimately threatening their survival. Additionally, the chemical can accumulate in the soil and water sources, impacting the overall health of the ecosystem. This contamination can result in decreased biodiversity and altered food webs, as both direct and indirect effects of herbicide use ripple through the fragile desert environment. Not to mention that the aquafers spanning the Tucson area are now being polluted with this method.

Those who own desert tortoises or simply just appreciate them understand the gravity of this issue. Rabbits are also quite sensitive and rely heavily on their sense of smell. Exposure to the spray can lead to health problems, ranging from nosebleeds to respiratory issues, and can even be fatal for these animals. Consider all the small wildlife encountering these sprays; it disrupts the entire ecosystem to poison the earth just to eliminate "weeds."

Pre-emergent vs Post-emergent

Pre-emergent herbicides create a barrier in the soil to stop weed seeds from germinating (creepy right?) while post-emergent herbicides are used to eliminate weeds that have already grown.

Both types of chemicals pose significant threats to soil health, water quality, plant vitality, and personal safety. Their impact goes beyond just unwanted plants, affecting the entire soil ecosystem, including microorganisms, water quality, and plant diversity.

Damage to Non-Target Plants

Pre-emergent pesticides do not distinguish between weeds and desirable plants. Nearby flowers, shrubs, and trees can absorb these chemicals, leading to:

• Weakened root systems: Growth suppression makes plants more vulnerable to drought and disease.

• Stunted development: Some species fail to thrive, resulting in barren, unbalanced landscapes.

• Potential plant death: Certain plants, especially young saplings and perennials, can be severely damaged by these chemicals.

Health Concerns for Humans and Pets

Many pre-emergent herbicides contain harmful chemicals that pose risks to people and animals, including:

• Skin irritation: Direct exposure may cause redness, rashes, and allergic reactions.

• Respiratory problems: Inhaling herbicide particles can trigger asthma and lung irritation.

• Increased risks for children and pets: Their smaller size and frequent ground contact make them more vulnerable to chemical exposure.

Natural Alternatives

Alternatives include vinegar mixtures and corn gluten meal, a byproduct of corn processing (not the same corn meal as in stores) is used as a natural "pre-emergent herbicide" to prevent weed seeds from germinating. It is important to apply it before weeds sprout for the best results. It works by inhibiting root development in germinating weed seeds via proteins, preventing them from establishing. It does not stop seeds from germinating but affects young seedlings, leading to their eventual death if applied correctly.

Using vinegar and magnesium salt can be an effective way to kill weeds, as vinegar's acetic acid burns the leaves and salt helps dehydrate the plants. It should be used sparingly in unique situations; such as in between cracks and rocks that are hard to reach.

As well as the classic hand removal, either pulling weeds and their roots out by hand or use of tools such as a hula hoe. There are unique ways to mitigate weeds in the desert such as DG and even keeping a pesticide free landscape to encourage native insects and critters to clear the plants naturally.

• Hand Weeding: While labor-intensive, manual weed removal is precise, immediate, and 100% chemical-free.

• Organic Solutions: Natural solutions like corn gluten meal can act as a pre-emergent alternative, while vinegar-based sprays target existing weeds.

• Biological Pest Control: Encouraging beneficial insects (like ladybugs) and companion planting helps keep unwanted plants and pests in check naturally

• Ground compaction: Laying decomposed granite and compressing with a roller helps to mitigate weeds very well as it causes the soil to be too firm for weeds to grow.

  
  

The Benefits of Eco-Friendly Landscaping

Eco-friendly landscaping practices promote the health of both local wildlife and the environment. By avoiding harmful chemicals, these methods help maintain a balanced ecosystem, allowing plants and animals to thrive without the risk of toxic exposure. Natural alternatives for weed control, such as mulching and companion planting, not only preserve the health of the soil but also support biodiversity. Ultimately, adopting eco-friendly landscaping is not only easier, as it often requires less maintenance and fewer resources, but it also fosters a healthier environment for all living beings.

© Desert Nurture LLC