Medicosnext
Words by Sarala Maharjan
She is the founder of Sakal Bio-enzyme Nepal – women led social enterprise. With a Master’s Degree in Environmental Science specializing in water resource management, she brings a profound understanding of environmental sustainability to her entrepreneurial ventures. Additionally, Sarala has completed the Sustainable Supply Chain Management Course at the British College, enhancing her expertise in creating efficient and eco-friendly supply chain practices. Further, she also has a decade long experience working in the human rights sector – especially in economic, social and cultural rights and community integrity building. In her role at Sakal Bio-enzyme Nepal, Sarala oversees Supply Chain Operational Management, ensuring streamlined processes that align with sustainable principles. Her dedication to integrating environmental considerations into business operations drives Sakal Bio-enzyme Nepal’s commitment to responsible and efficient supply chain practices.
In our quest for cleanliness, we often turn to commercial cleaning products that promise spotless homes and sanitized surfaces. However, beneath the surface of these products lies a hidden danger—chemical toxins that not only harm the environment but also pose significant risks to our health, including increasing the likelihood of triggering cancer cells.
In Nepal, the alarming rise in cancer cases—from 20,508 in 2020 to 22,008 by 2022—underscores the hidden dangers posed by carcinogenic chemicals in everyday cleaning products. With toxins capable of being absorbed through the skin in just 20 seconds, their harmful effects can manifest quickly, putting people unknowingly at risk. Among Nepal’s population of 29,136,808 in 2020, there were 20,508 new cancer cases (8,943 males and 11,565 females), with cervical, breast, lung, gallbladder, and ovarian cancers being the most common. Lung cancer alone accounted for 12.2% of new cases and 16.8% of cancer-related deaths. While diet is a known factor in cancer development, exposure to toxic chemicals in our environment, including those in cleaning products, is an often-overlooked contributor. These products, laden with toxic and carcinogenic substances, are doing more harm than good, often used without awareness of their dangerous effects.
On a bigger scale, the World Health Organization (WHO), who we trust, estimates that at the current rate, the number of new cancer cases will catapult to 27 million annually by 2030; there will be over 13 million cancer deaths per year and 75 million people living with cancer within five years after diagnosis.
The Link Between Chemical Cleaners and Cancer
The majority of commercial cleaning products are packed with chemical ingredients, many of which are known to be carcinogenic. These harmful chemicals can enter our bodies through inhalation, skin contact, or accidental ingestion, contributing to a range of health issues, including cancer.
Some of the most common ingredients in these products include:
Sodium Lauryl Phosphate and Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate: Widely used in laundry detergents and hand washes, these chemicals are known for their foaming properties. However, they can irritate the skin, inflame the eyes and lungs, and damage internal organs over time.
Phosphates and Ammonium Sulfate: Found in dishwashing liquids, these substances have been linked to decreased lung function and migraines.
Methyl Salicylate, Triclosan, CTAC, Hydrochloric Acid: Commonly used in toilet cleaners, these chemicals are hazardous when inhaled and can cause severe respiratory issues.
Parabens: Frequently used as preservatives in a variety of products, parabens are easily absorbed through the skin and have been associated with hormonal imbalances, breast cancer, and reproductive problems.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): These compounds, found in many cleaning products, can lead to indoor air pollution, causing respiratory problems, skin irritation, and an increased risk of lung cancer.
While these chemicals help achieve the desired cleaning effects, they also contribute to a silent health crisis. The alarming rise in cancer cases globally and in Nepal has made it imperative to seek safer alternatives to these harmful products.
A Safer, Natural Alternative
Bio enzymes offer a promising solution to the dangers posed by chemical cleaners. Derived from the natural fermentation of organic materials like fruit peels, vegetables, and flowers, bio enzymes are powerful, eco-friendly cleaning agents that do not contain harmful chemicals. They work by breaking down organic matter, making them effective for a wide range of cleaning tasks without the risks associated with synthetic chemicals.
How Bio enzymes Can Help Protect Against Cancer
1. Elimination of Carcinogenic Chemicals
Bio enzymes do not contain any synthetic ingredients, preservatives, or artificial fragrances. By using bio enzyme-based cleaners, we can eliminate exposure to carcinogenic chemicals commonly found in traditional cleaning products. This significantly reduces the risk of health issues related to these toxins, including cancer.
2. Protection of Indoor Air Quality
Bio enzymes do not release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, unlike chemical cleaners that contribute to indoor air pollution. This ensures that the air inside our home remains clean and safe to breathe, reducing the risk of respiratory issues and cancers associated with poor air quality.
3. Skin-Friendly and Non-Toxic
Bio enzymes are gentle on the skin and do not cause irritation, making them a safe choice for individuals with sensitive skin or those prone to allergies. This is particularly important as many chemical cleaners have a pH level that is harsh on the skin, leading to potential damage and increased susceptibility to carcinogens.
4. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable
Bio enzymes are biodegradable and do not pollute water bodies, soil, or air. They help maintain the natural balance of ecosystems and prevent the contamination of water sources that could otherwise lead to health problems, including cancer, in communities relying on these water bodies.
5. Reducing Chemical Load on the Body
By switching to bio enzymes, we can significantly reduce the chemical load on our body. Over time, this reduction can lead to better overall health, as our body is not constantly battling the harmful effects of exposure to toxic chemicals.
Health Crisis leads to a Cleaner Future
Eight years ago, Ms Sarala Maharjan was diagnosed with a brain tumor—a moment that altered the course of her life. The doctors gave her only two years to live, which filled her with fear and uncertainty. The diagnosis forced her to confront her mortality and reevaluate every aspect of her life, including the products she used daily. She came to realize that health is not only about what we eat but also about the environment we expose ourselves to daily.
As an environmental science student, she began researching potential contributors to her health issues and was shocked to discover the hidden dangers in household cleaners she had trusted. Those products, marketed as safeguards for health and the environment, were actually filled with toxic, carcinogenic substances and harsh chemicals. That realization was a wake-up call, not just for her but for countless others unknowingly exposed to these harmful chemicals. In her search for safer alternatives, she came to know about bio-enzymes—natural, eco-friendly cleaning solutions that align with her commitment to protecting both human health and the environment. This led her and her supportive friends Sujata Shrestha and Namita Maharjan to the founding of Sakal Bio enzyme Nepal, a brand dedicated to providing a safer, greener alternative to chemical cleaners. This journey from a life-threatening diagnosis to creating a sustainable business was transformative, and she hopes it inspires others to make informed choices that contribute to a healthier, more sustainable world.
Embracing Bio enzymes for a Healthier Future
The link between chemical cleaners and cancer is undeniable. As consumers, we have the power to make informed choices that protect our health and the environment. By embracing bio enzymes, we can reduce our exposure to carcinogens, improve our indoor air quality, and contribute to a more sustainable and healthier world.
At Sakal Bio enzyme Nepal, we are dedicated to producing high-quality bio enzyme products that are safe for both people and the planet. Our mission is to provide a natural alternative to chemical cleaners that not only clean effectively but also protect our health and well-being.
As we face increasing rates of cancer and other health issues, it is time to reconsider the products we use in our homes and workplaces. Bio enzymes offer a safe, effective, and environmentally friendly solution that can help us reduce our cancer risk and lead healthier lives. Let’s make the switch to natural cleaning solutions and take a proactive step toward a cleaner, safer future for ourselves and our loved ones.
