Ah Christmas. Bayberry candles and fake scented plug ins, pine trees emitting sap and Aunt you know who’s 50 year old perfume all mixed with potpourri (which has never been dusted) and the fresh scent of …what? what could possibly be fresh here in Iowa?

Be cautious this time of year of nose overload. Virtually all the products you are smelling are using chemicals to scent the product and chemicals to propel it into the air and others to stabilize the molecule so it stinks for a long time etc etc. If you are sensitive to fragrances you already know this but – for those of you who are not, think of us out here who are sensitive. Using potpourri in a bathroom, scented deodorizers,fabric softeners, scented candles, plug-ins and then personal body products add a difficult load to the nose and respiratory system. At best for those who are healthy you might actually feel “plugged” or stuffed up and for others it can create a severe headache, nausea and vomiting.

Keep your indoor air as fresh as possible. There is enough “hot air” this time of year as it is!!