Planet Thrive

Dr. Rea’s response:
Pesticides can affect almost every aspect of the body. They can affect nerve transmission due to their effect on the acetylcholine esterase enzyme. Organ function, including lung, brain, kidney liver, and heart can affect blood vessel inflammation, and the functioning of the central and peripheral nervous system. In addition some pesticides can be stored in organs and fatty tissue.

Organophosphates—Dursban, Malathion, Diazinon, and carbamates (Sevin)—affect nerve transmission and can be central nervous system depressants affecting heart and respiration rate. These pesticides can be absorbed by inhalation, ingestion and skin penetration. Organochlorides can be tumor causing and can be stored in organs and fatty tissue. Others such as permethrins can sensitize the person exposed and can cause respiratory and skin irritation. These pesticides can be found in food and can enter the body through ingestion as well as inhalation.

Organochlorides can be stored in organs and fatty tissue. These pesticides can be excreted in mother’s milk. They also affect steroid hormones and stimulate biotransformation of therapeutic medications, necessitating reevaluation of required dosages. The chief toxic action of this classification of pesticides is on the nervous system sometimes causing convulsions and seizures. Coordination and mental functioning can be affected by these pesticides.

Others such as pyrethrins can sensitize the person exposed and can cause neurological and respiratory problems as well as skin irritation.

Chlorophenoxy herbicides or weed control products are irritating to eyes, skin, gastrointestinal tract, and respiratory tract. Large exposures or chronic repeated exposures to these compounds can affect heart rhythm, muscle tone and weakness and create kidney problems and lead to vomiting and diarrhea.

Use of any of these organophosphates, carbamates and herbicides can be hazardous to health. When combined with petroleum distillates in application, their toxicity is increased. Less toxic alternatives are available. Food and water sources need to be chosen with care, and organic products should be the choice to ensure cellular protection.