Naphthalene: use and risks of white balls
Is the naphthalene, that little white ball our grandmothers used to put in the laundry and in the attic to keep the moths away, really the ally we think they are?
Pixabay photo
Between the proven properties and the dangers revealed, what are the secrets of the mothball?
Derivative of naphthalene
The mothballs come in the form of a solid cue ball. Its main use is to repel moths, but it is also used to perfume clothes.
This crystallized form of naphthalene hydrocarbon was discovered in 1920.
Naphthalene has been used in particular for the creation of perfume, antibiotics, but also for pyrotechnical effects, as well as napalm (when combined with palmitic acid).
Naphthalene belongs to the PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons). Highly toxic, it is a chemical pesticide considered hazardous to health and its sale has been banned in several countries since 2008, which is why naphthalene is no longer available in stores today.
The risks
Because it consists of naphthalene that is dispersed into the air, naphthalene is dangerous to the airways.
Nausea, migraines, and dizziness are some of the health problems associated with naphthalene use. It causes tachycardia and has been shown to be carcinogenic.
In fact, naphthalene is recognized as a carcinogenic substance by the European Union and by the IARC (International Agency for Research on Cancer).
Since it causes the destruction of red blood cells by simple inhalation, the mothball should not be ingested.
Using it in a ventilated room may limit the risks, but does not eliminate them.
Naphthalene: alternatives
Not available on the market due to its ban on sale, mothballs are no longer available today. To replenish it in your cabinets, prefer the essential oil.
Its strong smell will perfume your clothes and displease insects.
Thyme, lavender or eucalyptus essential oils may be suitable. Soak porous stones or pieces of cloth in the chosen essential oil before placing them in the closed space of the cupboard.
Spraying neem essential oil helps to keep insects away, but also kills them, since this essence is a natural insecticide.
It will be renewed once a month, as soon as the smell becomes too weak.
You can also find documentation in some digital books from Amazon's online store, MercadoLibre.
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