Ahhh, gardening! It’s a therapeutic activity and a favorite pastime of many. Caring for plants allows people to connect with nature, unwind, and cultivate beautiful surroundings.
A busy day in the garden is also beneficial for mental health. A new study published in the journal Lancet Planetary Health disclosed that people who started gardening noticed a significant decrease in their stress and anxiety levels.
There are potential hazards, however. This pleasant activity can quickly turn into a risky one if you are not aware of those threats. In this article, we’ll explore a few potential dangers associated with gardening
#1 Disease-Carrying Ticks
Gardens are a haven for insects. But ticks can be dangerous.
The incidence of Lyme disease is surging across the U.S. Over 63,000 people were infected with this tick-borne disease in 2022. Everyone is susceptible to Lyme disease. But those who work in gardens or other woody and bushy areas with leaf litter and high grass. That’s what the FDA says.
Deer ticks, or black-legged ticks, spread Lyme disease. This species of ticks carry Borrelia burgdorferi (B burgdorferi), which they transmit to humans through their bites.
Ticks can be active all year round. But their activity peaks during the warmer months—usually between April and September. Some symptoms that tell you’ve been bitten by an infected tick and have developed Lyme disease are fever and chills, joint pain, headache, and muscle pain.
Wear long pants and a long-sleeve shirt before you go to the garden to tend your plants. Apply insect repellent to bare skin so that ticks don’t bite you. Pets are also at risk of Lyme disease. Use tick preventatives regularly so that your furry friend remains safe from these pesky creatures.
#2 Harsh Chemicals
Three things gardeners can not do without are pesticides, insecticides, and herbicides. They help control pests, weeds, and plant diseases that are a nuisance for the herbs and shrubs.
Though effective, they contain toxic chemicals in disturbing quantities. BBC’s recent publication reveals they can impair the nervous system as well as the senses.
While insecticides and pesticides are notorious for their toxic nature, many consider herbicides to be safe when used as per the instructions on the product label. That isn’t the case, however. The active ingredient in many herbicides, glyphosate, is toxic to the nervous system.
A recent feature of WebMD disclosed that the most toxic herbicide and insecticide tested is Roundup.
A series of lawsuits are filed against Bayer’s Monsanto, the chemical giant that manufactures Roundup. Monsanto for decades maintained that glyphosate is the safest agricultural chemical. Yet, research proves otherwise. The IARC classifies glyphosate as “possibly carcinogenic to humans.” All suits claim that they developed cancer after using the herbicide.
Two Canadian farmers—Richard Elenko and Garry Gadd—were diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The two brothers used Roundup for decades without knowing of the risks associated with glyphosate. A majority of lawsuits, TorHoerman Law informs, have been settled. But lawyers are still accepting new cases.
As far as Roundup lawsuit payouts are concerned, Bayer shall pay $1.56 billion in the latest trial loss over weedkiller.
Before you use any insecticide, pesticide, or herbicide, always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Wear protective gear, including gloves, masks, and long sleeves, to prevent direct contact with these substances. Try opting for organic or natural alternatives, which are generally safer and environmentally friendly.
#3 Poisonous Plants
Just because plants are beautiful doesn’t mean they are safe. Many prettiest flowers—hydrangeas, poinsettias, and rhododendrons—are toxic.
Oleander, for instance, might make your garden look pretty. But its flowers and leaves contain toxic cardiac glycosides. It can cause drooling, abdominal pain, or even death if ingested. A single leaf of oleander can be fatal for a small child. Giant hogweed belonging to the carrot or parsley family can result in painful blisters and severe skin inflammation if you come in contact with it.
Poison hemlock is spreading throughout Ohio. It can be fatal if anyone ingests it accidentally.
If you’re a person who owns pets, steer clear of black nightshade, black locust, buckeye, and buckwheat. These are said to be toxic to both cats and dogs.
Educate yourself about the plants in your garden and identify which ones are poisonous. Label them and keep them out of reach of children and pets. Teach children not to touch or eat any plants without permission.
Long story short, gardening can lighten your mood and lower levels of anxiety and stress. But there are hidden dangers to it. You must be mindful of them, so you can stay safe.
Handle sharp tools like shears and power tools like string trimmers carefully. Wear gloves to protect your skin from soil-borne diseases. Try to garden during early morning or late afternoon when the sun’s rays are less intense. You won’t suffer from heat exhaustion or skin burns.
All these little precautions will make gardening endeavors both enjoyable and safe.
Read more: https://www.usabusinessnewz.com/
