M2.3 Blog Assignment: National Library of Medicine's Household Products Database

The first item I looked up was a candle because I have recently discovered the power a candle has to calm oneself. This is currently my favorite household item - I use it when I read or when I just need to unwind from a long day. Though the database did not have the specific candle I use, I chose a candle in the same form that I use (traditional wax). Before this class, I would have never thought candles would be a health hazard but when I started typing in 'candle' in the database, I began to worry that candles would be a serious health hazard. I was happy to find that the Health Rating was a '1' (on a 0 to 5 scale), which is a 'slight' health hazard. The website states that unnecessary exposure should be avoided, but necessity is subjective in this case. I don't use a candle every day and I could live without them but sometimes I do feel it is necessary in helping me de-stress. 

The second item I looked up was my laundry detergent brand, "All". I was pleased to find that the Health Rating is also a 'slight' health hazard (0). There are no serious health effects when the detergent is used on my clothes.

The serious issues that can arise from candle and detergent use is if these items are ingested. This would be highly unlikely with adults but should be reasonably kept away from children. After reviewing the two items on the data base, I have decided to try and use my candle less. If possible, I would open a window to ventilate my room when the candle is in use to clear out any toxic fumes from the scent of the candle. The health hazards for these two items are so low that I do not have plans to stop purchasing these items. However, I will use this site to assess other household items and before purchasing new items. I think that this is a great tool for everyone to use, especially families with young children. Everyone has a right to know the potential harmful effects of their household items and the NIH should do more to promote their database (https://hpd.nlm.nih.gov/index.htm).