1,4-Dichlorobenzene (Mothballs) - Kate Plechkova

“The Anti-Mothasaur”

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This white, toxic sphere-shaped creation called a mothball acts like an insect eliminator (pesticide) by killing any mildew, moths and their larvae in the long-kept clothing of wardrobes everywhere. It does so by going “extinct” into the air through the process called sublimation, when a solid substance undergoes a change in its physical composition to become a gas. The scientific name for the substance that today’s mothballs are made of is 1,4-dichlorobenzene.  Long ago before modern mothballs, the chemical that was used instead was camphor and naphthalene. Because of their high risk to being flammable, this safer substance was invented. Although they may be safe to use in small amounts, the collective effect that it has over a long time is negative on health. When a person, especially a child, is exposed to mothballs over many months, even weeks, many immediate reactions can happen to their body. The most common short-term health impact is the reddening of skin and irritation of lungs. However, if a person is kept in such an environment over a long time,  even some of their organs like kidneys, lungs or liver can begin to function improperly. Even more, their immune system can decrease and a risk for developing asthma can occur. Therefore, some of the best alternatives to mothballs can be used from natural sources, such as rosemary, thyme, ginseng, cloves, cedar, lavender or citronella. Just tie them up in a cotton cloth, hang them in your closet, and you’re good to go!

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1) “Mothballs A.K.A. Poison” http://www.flickr.com/photos/16854488@N07/2922580865/in/photolist-5sfZtg

2)  “Do Not Breathe Mothballs” Sign - http://www.flickr.com/photos/lwr/146786168/