Using natural products sounds like a great idea and a better alternative to your standard off-the-shelf product. However be warned, there is no legal definition for the term ‘natural’ when used in marketing. This can be confusing, especially when we ask ourselves exactly what do we want from a ‘natural’ product anyway? Are we drawn to the impression of ‘chemical free’, environmentally friendly or simply the idea that a ‘natural’ product must be a safer and healthier option?
We need to realise that just because a product is labeled ‘Natural’ does not in any way imply that it is free of potentially harmful synthetic ingredients or that it is an environmentally friendly alternative. The term is used so loosely in marketing it is difficult to determine exactly what any given brand means by implying their product is natural.
A ‘natural’ product can contain anywhere from 0 to 100% synthetic ingredients. And we must remember that any ingredient be it synthetic or non-synthetic has the potential to be harmful. There are naturally occurring substances that are harmful and poisonous, just as there may be some synthetic substances that are relatively benign.
The reason why we are drawn to natural products in the first place and why it is such a great marketing angle is that it allows us to think of beauty and nature and helps to distant a product from its origins in a chemical laboratory. But we must acknowledge that a product brought off a shelf will more often than not contain some amount of synthetic ingredient.
It is up to us, the consumer, to be informed as to where these ingredients come from and what possible negative effect they may have.
Many synthetics are used because they are cheap and produce a desired effect like overzealous foaming or that ‘oh so’ clean smell. We have been conditioned to expect our products to ‘do’ certain things and as a result shun anything that does not perform to these, if you will, un-natural standards.
But we need to realise that while synthetic ingredients are prevalent in our products; they are causing harm to our environment and potential harm to our health.
So it does make sense to be drawn to a ‘natural’ product and there are real alternatives available that use safer, more environmentally sustainable ingredients and manufacturing practices.
And how to choose a real natural product or a better alternative to a conventionally synthetic laden product?
Well there are two factors we can consider when looking at a list of ingredients:
1) What possibly harmful effects do these ingredients pose to my health
2) What possible harmful environmental impact do these ingredients have
If we aim to determine whether a product is natural, by looking at its impact on our health and the health of the planet , than we can set our own standard and definition of ‘natural’.
By this definition a product with minimum negative impact could be considered a more natural choice. This definition is based on the belief and understanding that natural products should not have a negative impact on nature itself.
We as informed consumers have the ability to choose products that meet our own individual standard of natural.
To do this, we need to take into account not only the ingredient itself, but its origin and the manufacturing process. Being informed as to how ingredients are manufactured and the research on possible harmful effects to our health and the environment helps determine if we consider the product to be natural.
The most important thing to remember is that we all have the right to a better choice, and that the best choice is an informed choice. Decide on standards with which to evaluate your product choices, base them on facts and the things that are important to you. A natural choice can be one that meets your immediate needs of results, convenience and price, but also be considerate of the effects it has on your health and the environment.
If you can’t find the perfect product, don’t be disheartened, stick to your own standards and evaluate what may be a ‘better’ choice. Most products will contain some form of synthetic preservative, so learn about the possible negative effects of some of these ingredients and make an informed decision. Look for phosphate free, cruelty free, biodegradable and products that have sustainable packaging.
Try your natural pharmacy, health food store or health section in the super market. There are many alternative products available, look online for specific products or ask at your local retailers, if they don’t provide an alternative ask why. The more people who decide to make a better choice, the bigger impact we can have.
To learn more about the synthetic ingredients found in consumer products read the article on petrochemical and oleochemical synthetics. Take the time to become informed as to their possible negative impact on your health and the health of the planet.
Be aware of the environmental and ethical implications of your choices. There are many companies out there producing products that are safer and more environmentally sustainable; so why not try an alternative.
Check the ingredients not just the labels, think about your options and evaluate the use of packaging and the brands ethical and environmental commitment. Look for real natural products, choose the ones that meet your own individual standard of natural that is based on facts and not marketing spin. It can be as simply as trying a different product and knowing that you are making a choice for the better.
Related posts:
- Balance and Consequence : Choosing beauty products that meet our own healthy, ethical and environmental standard
- Balance and consequence : Clean up with simpler and safer cleaning products
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"I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something. And because I cannot do everything I will not refuse to do the something that I can do." ~Hellen Keller
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