AllerAir's Super HEPA material used in the AirMedic series Air Purifiers is an extremely dense material that can only be used in an AllerAir Air Purifier. The Super HEPA filter which filters Microorganisms and particles down to 0.1 micron requires an Air Purifier with a strong motor to pull air through the dense material. AllerAir Super HEPA filters are not ideal material to be used for face masks, as it is too dense of a material, which would restrict breathing.

How to Make a Face Mask with Fabric

 Note: A N95 Respirator or Homemade face mask is not a substitute for social distancing. Follow recommended guidelines set out by the CDC and Health Professionals in your area.

Also keep in mind a Homemade Face Mask is not effective at filtering viruses like the Coronavirus COVID-19. Regardless of the material used in a homemade mask,  The face mask will not be as effective as a N95 Respirator or Surgical Mask.

Can a Homemade Face Mask Protect me from Coronavirus?

Wearing a face mask is not a guarantee that you won’t get sick, viruses can also be transmitted through the eyes and tiny viral particles, known as aerosols, can penetrate masks. However, masks are effective at capturing droplets, which is a main transmission route of coronavirus, and some studies have estimated a roughly five-fold protection versus no barrier alone.

How to Make a Homemade Face Mask

There are many good tutorials and step by step guides on how to make a homemade face mask with fabric. We have provided a few of the top recommendations below.

The CDC recommends using a cloth face covering when social distancing is not always possible. The CDC has an excellent guide and thorough step-by-step procedure complete with materials used to make a homemade face mask.

DIY Face Masks:

CDC on Homemade Face Covers read more on Use of Cloth Face Coverings to Help Slow the Spread of COVID-19

CNN Health also has an excellent step-by-step guide. How to make your own face mask

Courtesy of the Pennsylvania Department of Health. PDF Homemade Mask Guidance

In order to filter many airborne viruses and bacteria like COVID-19 Coronavirus, the Air Purifier must be able to filter a smaller particle size. Most Traditional HEPA filters can only filter particles down to 0.3 micron in size. AllerAir Air Purifiers uses it's proprietary Super HEPA filter technology to effectively filter viruses like the Coronavirus COVID-19 which is 0.125 micron in size.

AllerAir Air Purifiers with the Germicidal UV option, can reduce viruses and bacteria that is airborne. All AllerAir Air Cleaners with Super HEPA and UV is effective at filtering and limiting bacteria.

How long can the Coronavirus COVID-19 Stay in the Air:

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) can stay on surfaces for 2 to 3 days. It is important to disinfect surfaces multiple times. The COVID-19 virus clings to metal and plastic surfaces. It is important to keep all surfaces disinfected and the air clean. Using an AllerAir Air Purifier with Super HEPA filter, carbon filter, and UV helps keep the air cleaned and disinfected.

AllerAir Air Purifiers are made of an all metal housing, which can be easily cleaned and disinfected.

An Air Purifier should be running 24/7, so the volume of air is constantly being cleaned. AllerAir Air Cleaners are designed to be used continuously 24 hours a day.

Learn more from the references below.

Super HEPA, UV, Activated Carbon, & Best Air Purifiers for Viruses:

• Recommended Air Purifiers for Viruses
• Super HEPA Filtration - Optimal Indoor Air Quality
• UV Evaluation in Air Cleaning

Cannabis has a unique and rather pungent smell. Some people describe it as skunky, others absolutely love it. But no matter what you think about it, it’s too potent a smell to ignore.

VOG is the acronym for Volcanic smog, the hazy air pollution caused by an erupting volcano. The exact make-up of VOG actually changes depending on how much time the volcanic plume has had to react in the atmosphere. The haze is mostly a mixture of water vapor (H20), carbon dioxide (CO2) and sulfur dioxide (SO2) gas.

The study was carried out by Boston University School of Medicine and gathered data on almost 35 thousand women. The researchers used health, geographic data and EPA pollution readings to examine exposure during a specific window of time. They found exposure to air pollution in during high school was correlated with a slightly elevated risk of menstrual cycle irregularity.

"While air pollution exposures have been linked to cardiovascular and pulmonary disease, this study suggests there may be other systems, such as the reproductive endocrine system, that are affected as well," said study author Dr. Shruthi Mahalingaiah.

The menstrual cycle is responsive to hormonal regulation and this may be where air pollution comes into play. Previous research has suggested that air pollutants can have a negative effect on hormonal activity in both men and women.

Chemicals that mimic the female hormone estrogen and block male hormones have been found widely in indoor and outdoor air. Known as endocrine disruptors, these chemicals can be found in scented products such as perfumes, cleaning products, personal products as well as packaging, furniture, carpeting, adhesives and fuels.

Avoiding Pollution Exposure

While avoiding outdoor air pollution may be difficult we have more control over our indoor environments:

• Reduce overall chemical use
• Avoid artificially scented products
• Use natural personal care and cleaning products
• Improve home ventilation
• Use an air purifier with HEPA filtration and activated carbon
• Don’t allowing smoking inside your home
• Be aware of the toxic off-gassing in new furniture, building materials and flooring

*The findings in the study mentioned appear in the journal Human Reproduction.

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Featured Product:

The AirMed is a compact air purifier ideal for use in apartments, dorms and offices.  Unlike most compact units, it features a deep-bed activated carbon filter that removes chemicals and odors using the same principles at work in a military gas mask. It also removes 99.97% of all airborne particles like dust, dander and pollen.

There are certain habits in particular that put our health and well-being at risk in the summer and fall, but awareness and a few tweaks in these habits can help combat poor IAQ this time of year.

Forgetting to Monitor Humidity

In winter, it’s easy to take an interest in humidity levels, since low humidity could lead to nasal irritation and discomfort. In the summertime, humidity is often high and can make its way indoors through open windows and cracks in the building.
The problem is that high levels of humidity can lead to mold growth and a multitude of health problems. It often starts in the basement, where cold walls react to warm air or saturated soil around the home, which leads to condensation and increased humidity.
Humidity levels should stay between 40-60% in the summer, and they should not get much higher than 60% before mold growth becomes a concern. Most homes need a dehumidifier in the basement to regulate humidity, but increased air circulation and monitoring also help.

Slacking Off on the Regular Cleaning Schedule

Hey, we get it, everyone is busy, and cleaning sometimes takes a back seat to hanging out with friends, getting some exercise or attending an outdoor event. But it might be a good idea to keep vacuuming and mopping regularly. Going in and out many times throughout the day means more dirt ends up inside, pets shed just as much as usual (if not more) and dust mites also like to multiply in these conditions.

Going Overboard with Renos and Projects

During the spring, summer and fall, many people move homes or start on a renovation or restoration project close to their heart. And warmer months are great for these activities, as many projects can be done outside or with open windows to maximize ventilation and to minimize exposure to harmful chemicals. Still, taking on too much could wreak havoc with the indoor air quality, and poorly planned projects also bring more headaches than joy. Focus on one project at a time, include the weather forecast in your planning and buy the least harmful products possible.

Leaving the A/C on Continuously

If you are living in a warm region, constant high temperatures are worrisome and can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, but leaving the air conditioning running all the time is also problematic. That’s because when the A/C is on, windows stay shut, and pollutants from everyday products and building materials as well as those brought in from outside remain trapped indoors, building up to unhealthy levels. It’s much better to run the air conditioning during the hottest hours in the day and to open windows at night for optimum air circulation.

Using Pesticides to Combat Bugs

Warmer temperatures mean more insects - a common complaint during the summer - and they like to find their way indoors during fall. Mosquitoes, flies, spiders, ants, and co. will make their appearances, wanted or not. But spraying pesticides is not a good idea, as these chemicals are not only harmful to insects but also to humans, and children in particular. Using screens in windows and on patio doors helps to keep bugs out. Boric acid can help combat ants in the home, and it’s much safer than chemical pesticides.
Try natural bug sprays with citronella and essential oils of lavender, thyme and mint to keep bugs away. Certain plants around the doors and deck can also help: Basil, lemon balm, lemongrass, lavender, rosemary and marigold, for example.

Most of us turn on the TV to relax after a busy day or to catch up on the day’s events. That is just fine, but if you haven’t discovered the power of well-made documentaries yet, give it a try.

Documentaries are nonfictional films that rely on personal experiences, interviews and other storytelling devices to educate or inform viewers about various topics. A good documentary presents the hard data in an easily flowing and often entertaining way, explaining numbers and trends so that viewers can follow along effortlessly.

We at AllerAir are most concerned with the toxic substances and chemicals in our everyday life that might affect our health and well-being, but we also know about the importance of a healthy lifestyle and prevention of disease. That is why we picked 8 documentaries that provide a glimpse into the hidden dangers in our world and possible steps to a healthier life. Most of these documentaries are available online or via streaming services such as Netflix.

The C Word (2016)

If you want a documentary that will make you laugh, cry and shake your head in astonishment, it’s this documentary. The C Word is cancer, naturally, and the film follows the stories of cancer survivor and filmmaker Meghan O’Hara as well as French neuroscientist Dr. David Servan-Schreiber, who use scientific data and personal experience to show how the four pillars of nutrition, exercise, eliminating toxins and stress management can help prevent the onset or spread of cancer. It also exposes the medical system’s failure to embrace preventive measures, opting instead for expensive treatments and medications. Watch it today if you can.

The Human Experiment (2013)

Taking on the world of unregulated chemicals in the US is not a small job, but this documentary narrated by Sean Penn dives right in, noting that thousands of chemicals in everyday products have not been tested and are considered innocent until proven guilty. Some have criticized the film as relying more on emotions than proven facts, and much has happened since its release in 2013, including last year’s Chemical Safety for the 21s Century Act, which in theory gives the EPA more room to test and control chemicals. Only time and studies will tell.

Stink! (2015)

Have you ever opened a new product and wondered what on earth that smell was all about? Filmmaker Jon Whelan certainly did and his efforts to get answers about the makeup of everyday products and fragrances as well as the many stone walls he encounters make for an entertaining documentary.

Toxic Soup (2010)

This documentary takes a broader look at everyday Americans as they are fighting to keep their air, blood and water safe from pollution. It’s about toxic chemicals in the water, the dangers of industrial chemical accidents, radioactive oil fields and the politics of pollution. According to the CDC, 148 industrial chemicals lurk in the blood of the average American. Gulp.

Chemerical (2009)

Watch this documentary to learn more about the chemicals in household cleaners, how they affect indoor air quality and turn a supposedly safe environment - the home - into a toxic one. Take a look at your own cleaning practices - maybe the film’s tips will make it easier to switch to healthier products.

Our Chemical Lives (2015)

The half-hour documentary brief is available on YouTube. It chronicles the rise of household chemicals after World War II, while exposing the possible dangers associated with our daily interactions with chemicals. It starts in the womb and in many cases it’s impossible to avoid exposure. But the film provides some tips and tricks to make our lives less chemical.

Under the Dome (2015)

This self-financed documentary by a Chinese TV journalist provides invaluable insight into the effects of air pollution in China, comparing the problem to other historical pollution hot-spots such as London and Los Angeles. The documentary is in Chinese with English subtitles. It’s an important look at a worldwide problem. See our recent blog post.

Dying to Have Known (2006)

Filmmaker Steve Kroschel wants to know the truth behind the Gerson Therapy, which has been touted as a cure for cancer but has long been suppressed and dismissed by the medical community. The interviewees include nutritional and agricultural experts, two surgeons, two patients who survived their cancers, as well as noted critics of the natural cancer cure.


There are many more documentaries out there.
Let us know if we missed any that should be listed here.

Flooding can strike anywhere around waterways, especially in the spring, when lakes and rivers swell up with melt-water.

This year, major floods have already hit areas in North and South America and other parts of the world, including Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia, California, Chile, Peru, Indonesia and Russia, just to name a few.

When water levels rise, those living closest to the affected zones are told to prepare emergency kits, move as many things as possible off the floor in the basement and ground floors and possibly build sandbag dikes around the home to divert the water.

Others may try to keep homes dry with pumps and dehumidifiers.

Sometimes, water infiltration is simply unavoidable. And then it’s the aftermath of floods that can become costly and potentially dangerous.

Here are five things to watch out for when dealing with a flood cleanup:

1 - Contaminated mud

Flood waters are rarely clean, and they may leave behind contaminants and mud.

The EPA warns that mud water may even contain raw sewage. If you rely on well water for drinking, have it tested first. Shovel out the mud and use a hose to wash away remnants of mud. Clean and disinfect surfaces.

Seek medical attention if you experience upset stomach, headache or flu-like discomfort from exposure to contaminated flood water.

Hot water and a heavy duty cleaner followed up by a chlorine solution will do the trick. When dealing with toxins, chemicals and similar substances, make sure the space is well ventilated.

2 - Ruined materials

Carpets, drywall, appliances, furniture and other materials in the affected areas need to be inspected thoroughly. Replace anything that has been in contact with flood water.

Clean and disinfect those materials that can be salvaged. Dry rugs, bedding and clothing outside. Before replacing a floor, make sure the foundation is dry.

3 - Mold growth

Get the water and humidity levels under control as soon as possible, as mold can start to grow after 24-48 hours of contact with enough moisture.

Use an air conditioner or dehumidifier to reduce humidity, or open windows and use fans to circulate the air in the home and dry indoor areas.

If you discover mold and mildew on items, take them outside to remove it. That way, you won’t spread mold spores in the home. Clean and disinfect surfaces.

Be careful when dealing with mold, as EPA warns that exposure to mold spores can cause allergic reactions - either immediately or after the fact.

4 - Electrical hazards

Make sure the electrical system is shut off and inspected by an electrician before turning it back on.

If the water levels were high, mud may have filled junction boxes and outlets. All the wiring has to dry before using the electrical system again.

Flooded electrical equipment is usually a write-off, experts say, and the system should be checked for grounding and bonding.

5 - Pests and microorganisms

High levels of moisture in the home attract many pests, including carpenter ants and termites, centipedes, millipedes, earwigs, pillbugs, silverfish and more. Keep an eye out and deal with infestations immediately.

Check the outside of the home for cracks and openings that would let them in and get those humidity levels under control.

Bacteria and viruses also love high humidity. Reduce their numbers with proper ventilation, source control and air purification.

Find out how air purifiers can help improve IAQ after floods. 

1 - Shower

The problem: The water we use for showering has been treated with a variety of chemicals to inhibit the growth of pathogens. In the industrialized world, most water treatment plants use chlorine. Chlorine, however, combines with organic matter to form disinfection byproducts called trihalomethanes (THMs). One of them is chloroform, which you are breathing in while showering. As the skin is the largest organ, it will also ingest toxins found in the water. A study at the University of Pittsburgh found that you are more at risk from showering in chlorinated water than you are from drinking it.

The solution: Washing is still important, so don’t just quit cold turkey. Take shorter showers, and install a shower filter on the shower head. They are readily available online and will filter the water before it hits the skin. Some cultures also prefer the sit-and-wash-with-a-cloth method, which would minimize the skin’s contact with contaminants.

2 - Washing machine

The problem: Using treated tap water, aggressive laundry detergents, bleach and liquid fabric softeners can expose users to chemicals such as benzyl acetate (linked to pancreatic cancer), benzyl alcohol (an upper respiratory tract irritant), ethanol (linked to central nervous system disorders), limonene (a known carcinogen) and chloroform (a neurotoxin and carcinogen). The chemicals often cling to the clothes to be released slowly or they will be absorbed by the skin.

The solution: Switch to more natural laundry detergents and chlorine-free bleach, and skip the fabric softener altogether (instead use ¼ cup of white vinegar to prevent clingy fabrics).

3 - Dryer

The problem: Overuse of the dryer has not only been connected to potential fire hazards, but also to indoor air quality concerns. Older dryers may feature asbestos-containing components, including felts, combustion chamber insulation, drive belts and electrical components. Experts discourage the use of dryer sheets to prevent static electricity and provide a softer feel to clothes.

The solution: The best way to impart a fresh smell to the laundry is to hang it up outside to dry. Replace toxic dryer sheets with dryer balls or reusable versions. Contact the manufacturer about possible asbestos concerns, if the dryer is an older model.

4 - Toothpaste

The problem: Most commercial toothpaste contains harmful chemicals, including sodium fluoride, triclosan, sodium lauryl sulfate, propylene glycol and DEA. These chemicals have long been under scrutiny for possible health risks like cancer, hormone disruption, organ abnormalities, causing irritation and other problems.

The solution: There are many alternative products that can be used to clean teeth, including sea salt, baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, tooth powders, coconut oil and basic water. Find one that works for you!

5 - Drinking water from the tap

The problem: As mentioned above, tap water has been treated make it generally safe for consumption. That means, most water available in North America contains traces of chlorine, fluoride, pesticides, fertilizers, heavy metals, petrochemicals, dioxins, radioactive materials and microorganisms.

The solution: Drink filtered water if possible. Bottled water may be an alternative, but check the label if it has been filtered (otherwise it might simply be tap water from elsewhere). The best way to avoid consuming lead from tap water is to only use water from the cold tap for drinking, cooking, and making baby formula and to let the water run for a minute before using it.

6 - Food

The problem: With the spread of organic food stores and healthier options it seems that most people are aware of the risks that come with the chemicals in their food. Many of the things we buy to eat contain an alarming number of potentially harmful chemicals, including pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, preservatives, artificial colors and flavors, and industrially produced fats and sweeteners.

The solution: Avoid processed food when possible and instead prepare whole foods yourself. Increase the amount of organic fruits and veggies you consume and buy food in bulk to keep down costs. Consume less meat, dairy and fish. We could all use a little more quality over quantity, right?

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Other symptoms include coughing, wheezing and chest tightness, and these often get worse when the patient is also fighting a common cold or flu.

Asthma affects people of all ages, but especially children: Up to 10% of children are diagnosed with childhood asthma. Many will grow out of it, but the disease and treatment may impair their lung function and other growth factors in the long term.

While there are medications to help control asthma, medical experts stress the importance of the environment on asthma. Here are five ways to reduce the risk of asthma attacks:

1. Improve indoor air quality. A good breathing environment is one of the most important ways to minimize exposure to potential triggers.
   Indoor air has been shown to be 5 times worse than outdoor air, so take special care to improve IAQ. Ventilation is important, as well as opening windows regularly (the best times to do so may surprise you - air quality is best on rainy days, for example. Modern apps or localized weather services make this information available in real time).
   Air pollution, pollen, tobacco smoke, pet dander, dust mites, perfumes and harsh chemicals have all been identified as common asthma triggers. Avoid them as much as possible.
   Clean the home regularly and get rid of materials that can harbor allergens and asthmagens (such as carpets).
   
   
2. Become a healthier you. A healthier lifestyle could be one of the keys to control asthma in the home. Instead of the same old cleaning products, use natural cleaning products such as vinegar and baking soda. Avoid scented products in the home, including air fresheners and scented laundry detergent.
   Stay active and encourage physical activity in asthma patients (but be careful - strenuous exercise or physical activity in cold weather could trigger an asthma attack).
   Switch from fatty fast foods and prepared foods to healthier, whole foods prepared at home. Focus on superfoods such as avocado, apples, chia seeds and turmeric to harvest their natural ability to strengthen the immune system and provide a health boost.
   
   
   
   
3. Focus on the bedroom. The bedroom is where children and adults spend a lot of time, so this area of the house requires some extra care. Dust mites are a big concern when it comes to triggering asthma attacks, so experts recommend encasing the mattresses and pillows with dust-proof covers. Keep pets out of the bedrooms, especially cats and dogs, since pet dander is another common trigger, and keep the bedroom clean and tidy. Instead of carpets, go for hardwood floors or tiles in the bedroom, which are easier to keep dust-free. An air purifier helps to remove airborne contaminants that can cause inflammation of the airways. Good quality sleep also helps those suffering from asthma.
   
   
4. Have a written asthma plan. It will help those suffering from symptoms or those taking care of the patient deal with an attack without panicking.
   A typical asthma plan spells out the green, yellow and red zone symptoms, controlling medications, the name of the doctor and other pertinent facts. Also, regular checkups with the doctor may help, even if asthma seems to be under control.
   
   
5. Use the right tools. An environmental home assessment can pinpoint problem areas in the home, and good source control, ventilation and air purification can improve the indoor air quality significantly.
   Use a monitor to keep track of the humidity levels in the home and make sure it’s in the 30-50% range. High humidity can lead to mold growth, another asthma trigger.
   A well-maintained HVAC system with filters has been shown to help control indoor air pollution, and a high-quality air purifier, dehumidifier or conversely a cold-mist humidifier can all do their part to provide a healthier indoor air environment.
   There are even certain plants that help purify the air. According to David Suzuki, these include Spider plants, Peace lilies, Snake plants (aka mother-in-law's tongue), Elephant ears, Weeping figs, Rubber plants and Bamboo palms (aka reed palm).
   
   

Potential backers loved their product, and Graviky Labs ended up with $41,076 of pledged funds and tons of positive feedback. Many backers commented on the fact that their own cities could use the devices to combat air pollution in a meaningful way.

How the AIR-INK became reality

According to the information on the Kickstarter site, it all started as an experiment at the MIT Media Lab in Cambridge, MA. The initial idea was to make a handheld printer that uses candle soot, and the rough prototype was met with enthusiasm from environmentalists and artists alike. Since 2014, they have been working on ways to harvest pollution from engines and other sources in India, and found they could make a real impact.

Graviky Labs includes Anirudh Sharma, Nikhil Kaushik, Nisheeth Singh and Nitesh Kadyan. Their post tailpipe retrofit device KAALINK incorporates filters, sensors, and a capture unit and uses electrostatic filtration, depth filtration as well as wall flow filtration to collect the right type of pollution from automobile exhaust pipes.

In the lab, the team will purify the collected pollution to remove toxins such as re-entrant dust, heavy metals, oil, carcinogens, VOCs and more. The remaining soot is then ground to a consistent particle size so that the pigment will be smooth. Their initial product line includes round tip pens, chisel tip markers and screen printing ink.

Environmentalists love the fact that no fossil fuels have to be burned deliberately to make carbon soot for ink, but that the process uses the fossil fuels already being burned in cars, thereby removing air pollution from the streets and turning it into something useful.

But is it safe? While they don’t recommend ingesting their ink, the entrepreneurs say their inks and paints are as safe as any on the market.

1. The holiday season is long over and budgets have recovered
2. Spring pictures of blooming flowers are a great selling point. Properties look larger and well-cared for.
3. Buyers like to get through the closing process as early as possible so they can move and make it their own before the next winter/holiday/school season

Even if you are not ready to put up a “For Sale” sign, these tips can help make you feel good about the home you live in.

Spring cleaning done right

It is an annual rite that has become an important part of spring for many homeowners - and it’s easy to see why: After a thorough spring cleaning effort, it is fun to look around and enjoy a cleaner, well-organized house.

A perfect spring cleaning stint will involve many hours, projects and helpers (but don’t take our word for it, Martha Stewart has an entire printable checklist to consult).

However, there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure the spring cleaning is successful:

Plan ahead

Schedule the time for spring cleaning and make a list of the tasks you want to complete. Then make sure you have all the products and tools you need. Set realistic goals.

Use non-toxic cleaning products

Traditional cleaning products are filled with harmful chemicals, many of which have been linked with short-term and long-term health effects. Never mix cleaning products, and if possible, use non-toxic alternatives such as vinegar, baking soda and hot water.

Reward yourself

Whether it’s a half hour of alone time (with a cup of tea and a book or magazine, anyone?), a few new decorating items or a takeout meal so nothing messes up that kitchen - the right reward will make it easier to get through those spring cleaning tasks.

Prep the home

Selling or not, a well-organized home makes life easier. Assess each room individually and get rid of clutter, ratty old furniture, and anything that distracts from the natural charms of the home. You don’t need to spend a lot of money to make a good first impression with friends or potential buyers.

Fix the little things

Patch up little holes in the walls, replace burnt-out light bulbs, cover up the scratches on floor baseboards with a new coat of paint -- all these little jobs will help bring on a sense of accomplishment and they can make the difference in the home selling process.

Maximize curb appeal

Take some time out in the yard to clean up branches and leaves, plant some new flowers and make sure that the house makes a great impression even before people enter the home.

Smudging tools
Sage or other sacred plants (people on the East Coast use tobacco, cedar, sweetgrass, juniper, pine needles, deer's tongue, cypress, and sage. Out west they use tobacco, pinion, desert sage, and sweetgrass). Sage represents the earth element and when burned, the smoke from it represents the air.
Abalone shell This is meant to hold and burn the plants. (The shell represents the water element)
Matches or a lighter (representing the fire element)
Feather (representing the air element)
Drum(s) or sacred drumming music (representing the beat of the heart)

The science behind these types of ancient customs seems to support smudging: Burning sage and other sacred herbs releases negative ions, which in turn have been shown to improve moods. The ceremony does allow participants to slow down and become mindful and centered, similar to meditation.

Possible health concerns related to smudging
The purpose of smudging may be to clear the air and get rid of negativity, but it still involves burning a substance and being exposed to smoke. Most guidelines state the importance of opening a window or door before lighting up the herbs.
While different from smoking cigarettes, the sacred smoke from smudging may still be harmful. Smoke typically contains dangerous particles and chemicals that pose a health risk, especially when exposure occurs often. Over the years, these chemicals and particles may build up in the body and cause or exacerbate respiratory diseases, including asthma and OCPD. Fine particle pollution has also been linked to premature death, heart attacks, irregular heartbeat and irritation of the airways. During a recent study on smudging, a researcher found that fine particle levels exceeded health recommendations. The research included different types of sage that were burned in a box with an air sampling pump. For particulates, every single test was above the EPA’s 35 μg/m3 standard.

AllerAir manufactures special Air Purifiers for smudging. AllerAir uses a special Activated Carbon mix which filters the air of harmful chemicals and dust particles from smoke.

AllerAir Air Purifiers for smudging are currently used in detention centers, schools, and many recreational centers, where the practice of smudging occurs. Contact one of our sales reps, we can recommend different air purifiers along with a special carbon blend. We are also on Chat to assist you.

Introducing smudging to school-aged children
As smudging is a common and important ceremony for people of the First Nations, it has been allowed in hospitals and community centers and it is also being offered to students.
Many schools serving First Nations students offer smudging, either during particular events or as a regular part of the school day. It is often done indoors and it is a voluntary action that is usually led by a person with the required knowledge, i.e. an elder or cultural teacher.
Guidelines for schools in Manitoba, for example, recommend posting signs on spaces that are being used for smudging and letting the community know when and where smudging will occur. Stressing student safety, the guidelines state that schools should “Ensure that smudging does not pose a health risk to students, particularly students with severe asthma and respiratory issues. Communicating with parents and students prior to holding a smudge in a well-ventilated room can help to accommodate such concerns.”
They also recommend having written permissions from students who want to participate in smudging ceremonies and using sage as the medicine of choice, as it is “safe” for all students to use year round, even during menstrual cycles.

So what happens if there are no regular periods of quality sleep? The occasional late night or disrupted sleep may not be serious, but if they become the norm, it could be trouble. When people don’t sleep enough, they may become moody, depressed, anxious, irritable and sleepy. They are less productive and unable to retain information well. In the long run, a lack of quality sleep has been associated with obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and even early mortality.
The most common sleep disorders are insomnia, sleep apnea, snoring, restlessness, sleepwalking and narcolepsy.

How to get a better night’s sleep

Aim for a comfortable sleep environment
Most people have to feel comfortable in their bedrooms - but there are certain no-nos when it comes to furniture, appliances and personal belongings: Keeping out the clutter and mess makes a huge difference. Keep bedroom furniture and decor simple. A bedroom shouldn’t bee too hot or cold at night, and the mattress should be comfortable and supportive. When noise is a problem, try earplugs. According to the National Sleep Foundation, comfort, fresh air, quietness and cool temperature are the basic building blocks for creating the best sleep environment.


Improve indoor air quality
One or too plants can help improve air quality, while too much vegetation could make it worse. Avoid any scented products, dry-cleaned clothes or potentially toxic chemicals in your sleeping environment (this includes scented laundry detergent or bleach). Hardwood floors or tiles are also preferable to carpet, to make cleaning easier.
There should be no computer or television in the bedroom - the only small appliances that may help are humidifiers (if kept clean) and air purifiers, which have the added benefit of adding soothing white noise to the room.


Adopt good night-time habits
Eating too much or too late can make it difficult to fall asleep - the same goes for stimulants consumed before bedtime: It’s better to avoid coffee, tea, soft drinks, chocolates and cigarettes before bedtime. Alcohol may help some people to fall asleep, but the effects won’t last long: Sleep is often disrupted when the alcohol leaves the system. It’s best to stay away from sleeping pills, if possible.
A regular bedtime routine is not only beneficial for babies and toddlers - it is best to go to bed around the same time each night and also to get up around the same time each day. Humans are creatures of habit and a regular good night’s sleep is one of the best habits to have.

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The researchers from Poland and the U.S. have figured out a way to process the disks into two kinds of activated carbon a highly porous material made from heating a substance at high temperatures. Used widely in water and air purification, activated carbon has traditionally been manufactured from natural sources such as coconut shells or wood. But faced with increasing waste of all kinds, scientists have been trying to create activated carbon out of everyday plastic products. 

Elsewhere, researchers have even shown how to turn coffee grounds into an activated carbon material that captures methane. The power of activated carbon for purifying the air may prove to be limitless. 

If you need a visual on just how powerful activated carbon is, only one teaspoon of activated carbon has the surface area of an entire football field. That makes for a lot of pores and fissures where gases and pollutants can be trapped.

The CD activated carbon created by the scientists was able to successfully suck up carbon dioxide, hydrogen gas and benzene, a cancer-causing compound used in industrial processes.

Their study was published in the journal ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering

Activated Carbon Fast Facts:

• Activated carbon is used in gas masks
• It's ingested by hospital patients and health nuts
• Is built to hunters clothes to mask their human odor
• Has been made into underwear to absorb flatulence

Researchers have figured out a way to turn coffee grounds into an activated carbon material that can capture methane, a widespread, very problematic greenhouse gas. When methane is allowed to leak into the air, it absorbs the sun’s heat, warming our atmosphere. Methane comes from many sources, the largest of which are industrial emissions.

Activated carbon has actually been used in air and water purification for thousands of years. Traditionally, it’s made by heating nutshells, coconut husk or wood at high temperatures. The process creates a vast network of pores that attract and soak up chemicals, odors and gases. Only a handful of activated carbon can soak up a football field worth of pollutants. However, depending on the source material used, processing times can vary. The coffee, it seems, had a time advantage too.

"The big thing is we are decreasing the fabrication time and we are using cheap materials," said Christian Kemp, a researcher on the work at the Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST) in South Korea. "The waste material is free…in my opinion this is a far easier way to go."

The researchers soaked the 100% Colombian dark roast, fine ground coffee grounds in a potassium hydroxide solution and heated the resulting mixture to 149 °F. It was then dried and placed in a furnace exposing it to temperatures of 1,290 - 1,650 °F. This activated the carbon coffee grounds opening up those pores and fissures that remove pollutants.

The process took less than a full day, much quicker than other materials. The absorbency of this coffee-carbon was also found to be very good, helped along by the sodium hydroxide (also known as lye and caustic soda).

"It seems when we add the sodium hydroxide to form the activated carbon it absorbs everything," said Kemp. "We were able to take away one step in the normal activation process, the filtering and washing, because the coffee is such a brilliant absorbent."

If you’re wondering how they came upon this idea Kemp says:

"We were sitting around drinking coffee and I looked at the coffee grounds and thought ‘I wonder if we can use this for methane storage?'"

Wow. And you thought motivating you out of pajamas was coffee’s only superpower.

More Coffee Trivia:

Food giant Nestlé uses coffee grounds as a heat source in its factories

Starbucks is working with researchers to turn coffee grounds into plastic and laundry detergent.

It’s used in military gas masks, air purifiers, water filters and hospital emergency rooms, but would you drink the charcoal known as activated carbon?

There are not one, but at least half a dozen companies banking on the fact that you will.

Billed as “detoxifying”, activated carbon is being mixed into juices with almonds, greens, apples and everything makers can think of so that “people won’t gag on it” (so says Juice Generation founder Eric Helms).

There is a lot of evidence backing up the amazing powers of activated carbon, in fact it's been used for thousands of years. Its incredible surface area soaks up pollutants like a sponge and can hold many times its weight in toxins. Emergency room doctors actually use activated carbon in poisoning cases. Yet, there is little modern-day evidence of its continued long-term, regular use as a food item. Another tick in the con list may be that it will soak up the good with the bad. Some experts have suggested that the ingested carbon may bind to nutrients as well as toxins in the body, flushing both out of your system. Imagine forcing down all that kale just to kill its benefits with your carbon juice?

Carbon is also popping up in food, drinks and at trendy restaurants:

-In the UK, Bull in a China Shop (BIACS), a Chinese rotisserie chicken restaurant, serves a chicken burger in a black charcoal brioche bun (a trend started by Burger King in Japan).

-Michelin-starred Chef Simon Rogan uses charcoal oil in some of his dishes

-Artesian in London, which has been voted among the world’s best bars four years running, puts it in cocktails

The “fog” blanketing China most days used to be thought of as a natural weather phenomenon that couldn’t be helped.

But since 2012, the words “smog”, “PM2.5”, “air pollution” and “fine particles” have become analogous to a nation’s struggle against an invisible enemy threatening the public health.

For television journalist Chai Jing, her eye-opening moment came when her unborn daughter was diagnosed with a benign tumor and needed surgery right after birth. She wanted to find possible causes and make sense of an overall increase in cancer and respiratory diseases in China. The cancer death rate had jumped 465% in the past decade - there must be some way to explain those numbers (she made sure to mention smoking and aging as factors).

The result of her research is the independent documentary Under the Dome. With a style similar to that of Al Gore’s An Inconvenient Truth, her documentary combines interviews with industry insiders, doctors and government officials, harrowing visuals and her presentation of a relentless parade of facts showcasing China’s air quality disaster. She compares life in modern-day China as living in an open-faced experimental chamber - a gruesome experiment measuring the effects of air pollution on an entire nation.

When her film was released online in 2015, it was viewed more than 300 million times before the Chinese government intervened and had it taken down. In other parts of the world, it is still available on YouTube with English subtitles.

Fine particles - the invisible enemy

The problem with air pollution is that the fine particles most dangerous to human health are impossible to see with the naked eye. PM2.5 particles are also too small for the body’s natural defenses. They can pass through the nostrils and throat area (despite coughing) to get into the lungs, and the smallest particles may even enter the bloodstream and wreak havoc on the system. Even the body’s best natural defense mechanisms won’t be enough to defeat these particles fortified with toxic heavy metals. It’s a war inside the body as well.

In major cities all around China, air pollution levels consistently fall into the dangerously high category. For one whole day, Chai Jing carried around a special pump containing an activated carbon disk to measure the amount of pollutants in her immediate surroundings. The white carbon disk turned blackest black.

Everyday exposure to these pollutants has an effect on health - some immediate, some building up over time. Studies show that people exposed to polluted air are more prone to respiratory complications, inflammation of the respiratory system, heart problems as well as cardiovascular concerns. The higher the fine particle pollution, the higher the mortality rate, experts found. Children and the elderly are especially at risk.

Some mothers may wonder whether they can expose their children early to make them “adapt”, Chai Jing explains, but medical evidence says the opposite is true. The only way to protect children is to reduce their exposure. That is why she kept her daughter inside for half the year, “like a prisoner,” she says. “At some point, she will start asking why.”

Economic development vs. environmental protection

At a time when other industrial nations took a step back from coal consumption and implemented emission standards as well as turning toward oil and natural gas as cleaner fuels, China had to catch up and focused on economic development. As a large country with growing energy needs, China burns three to four times more fossil fuels than Europe. In 2013, China burned more coal than the entire world taken together.

But what is even more concerning for Chai Jing and her sources are the chemical reactions between the coal and oil burning pollutants that have nowhere to go in the atmosphere.

China should learn from history, as other nations ran into this pollution problem before. England used to be a mining heavyweight, and the British lived on coal for decades. But when a cold air front trapped all the soot and particles below on December 5, 1952, the Great Smog of London paralyzed the city and took 12,000 lives.

In China, a total revamp of the energy industry may not be in the cards yet, but instead of burning low-quality lignite (brown coal), China could wash it first to cut emissions in half.

Chai Jing takes her viewers on the road to see steel factories, construction sites, rush-hour traffic, checkpoints on highways - she exposes environmental protection is a joke, eco-labels as not meaning a thing and overall confusion and inability to enforce existing low standards. “We need better management,” her source says.

Factories are free to do as they want. “How can we shut them down?” asks one ministry staff member, explaining that hundreds of thousands of people depend on their jobs.

Improved air quality in the future

However, Under the Dome ends on a hopeful note. The city of Los Angeles, once a poster child for awful pollution, has reduced emissions by 75%, passing strict laws and actually enforcing them. London decreased air pollution by replacing coal with oil and natural gas. Yes, mining jobs were lost - but new industries and job opportunities will emerge. China has to stop subsidizing backward industries, Chai Jing says. “China needs to embrace oil and natural gas. Only then will we have cleaner air.”

She supports an informed public and new environmental protection laws. On the individual level, Chai Jing appeals to viewers to leave cars at home whenever possible, report cases of pollution, help small businesses improve (her example was an air purifier being installed on the roof of a restaurant) and take small steps towards a healthier, less polluted China.

It would be nice if some children growing up in China could see the stars at night.

Photo credit: V.T. Polywoda/Creative Commons

When temperatures drop, a natural response is to seek warmer and cozier surroundings -- not just for people but for all kinds of creatures. Most homeowners are aware and on the lookout for signs that critters and insects try to invade their buildings and living spaces.

Pest management is an important part of home ownership and building maintenance. But while many people may turn towards chemical-laden pesticides as a control measure, experts have been calling for a more environmentally friendly and prevention-based way to control bugs and critters: Integrated pest management.

What are pests?

We may call annoying family members or co-workers a pest sometimes, but pests are defined as animals or plants with harmful effects on humans, food or living conditions.

These include

• Mosquitoes (they can spread diseases)
• Mice
• Rats
• Silverfish (they may damage clothing)
• Termites (they may damage the building)
• Bedbugs
• Cockroaches
• Flies
• Lice
• Fleas
• Mites
• Spiders

Seeing the occasional spider or mosquito inside a home is nothing to fret about, since they occasionally enter the home through open doors or windows. But many pests carry diseases and contribute to bad air quality, so preventing infestations is key.

What to do about pests

Integrated pest management is all about prevention, monitoring and control. It includes regular inspections of the home or building, keeping records of the findings and pinpointing trends in outbreaks.

Most experts will tell you that you can never fully get rid of pests - you can only control their population and make sure they are not turning into an all-out infestation.

It’s nevertheless possible to control pests with proper cleaning and maintenance, structural repairs, mechanical and living biological controls, non-chemical methods, and the least toxic pesticides - if, and only if, all other methods of control have been exhausted.

According to Beyond Pesticides, the least toxic pesticides include boric acid, desiccant dusts (diatomaceous earth and silica gel), microbe-based pesticides and pesticides made with certain essential oils.

Examples of IPM measures:

1. Inspect a home and identify points of entry for pests such as mice. Even tiny holes above ground level can allow mice to squeeze through. Use caulk to seal cracks.
2. Install screens on doors and windows.
3. Store food properly and keep the kitchen free of dirt, grease and crumbs.

How toxic pesticides affect your health

Toxic pesticides are quite dangerous and should only be used when needed and according to the instructions. Government websites in North America feature long lists of possible health effects linked to pesticide use.

Mild poisoning: Effects include irritation to eyes, nose and throat, headaches, nausea, insomnia and many more

Moderate poisoning is characterized by vomiting, coughing, rapid pulse, weakness and mental confusion, among many other symptoms

Severe poisoning includes symptoms such as inability to breathe, muscle twitching, chemical burns and even death. See the complete list Click here to read more. 

Children are most susceptible to pesticides and they should be protected as much as possible. Pesticides are made with complex chemicals, many of which are known to affect the neurological system or lead to the development of cancer. Traces of them can build up in human bodies and lead to health effects over time.

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