Glyphosate is a non-selective weed killer, meaning it affects all plants around where it is used because it is absorbed into the soil. Sadly, that means it can leach into surrounding soil affecting drinking water and food sources.
The Problem With Glyphosate
Drugwatch reports that glyphosate in RoundUp and other weed killers (AKA herbicides) is known to cause lung, skin, and throat irritations and even cancer. In fact, in 2015 the International Agency for Research on Cancer deemed that “glyphosate is probably carcinogenic (cancer-causing)” Consequently, Bayer, the current (since 2018) producer of Roundup, has been sued by users in the US who have contracted cancer. To the tune of billions of dollars. In 2021 Bayer agreed to remove Roundup (and any other products containing glyphosate) from the US market by 2023. Countries in the European Union have also agreed to ban herbicides containing glyphosate.
How are Humans Exposed to Glyphosate?
As well as herbicides used in lawn care and agriculture (farming), glyphosate is also used in aquariums to control weeds and algae. If you suffer from any of the following symptoms (from Drugwatch), perhaps you have been exposed through skin contact or inhalation into the lungs:
- Asthma
- Diarrhea
- Burns in the mouth and throat
- Eye irritation
- Increased saliva
- Nausea
- Respiratory irritation
- Skin irritation
- Vomiting
Although regulatory standards say possible levels of glyphosate in foods are not high enough to harm humans, how much is too much? Everyone reacts differently to chemicals, just ask my skin.
What Else Does Long-Term Exposure Cause?
Although the chemical leaves the body through feces and urine fairly quickly and pretty much intact, there have been many health issues connected to long-term exposure. These include autism, neurological disorders, immune system, and hormone disruptions, reproductive issues, brain and behaviour problems.
Pollinators Also Affected
As well as harming humans, glyphosate also devastates the pollinator population that is so important to our food sources. One can only imagine the impact on these (relatively) small bodies when the chemical is ingested into their systems. Unfortunately, they cannot advocate for themselves.
The Case for Natural Weed Killers
I am a huge proponent of natural cleaners and weed killers too, mainly because my own skin and lungs react to anything otherwise. Hopefully, the fact that studies are proving glyphosate and other chemicals are causing major health issues around the world should have everyone else thinking the same. Who wants to take the chance?
As an alternative to harsh and unhealthy chemicals, I use vinegar and essential oils in my gardens and home to combat weeds and germs. If you’re not into homemade remedies, organic products that do not contain glyphosate are available in stores. Just be sure to check the labels and ingredient list.
Links to the two complete articles about glyphosate I used as sources for this post can be found on the links page of this blog. Please take a moment to read them.
2024 Update:
For crucial updates on the ongoing lawsuits against Bayer and Monsanto regarding Roundup, please read this information.
