Triclosan in toothpaste, soap can impact nervous system: IIT Hyderabad
IIT-HyderabadHYDERABAD: Beware! Toothpaste, soap and even deodorant having triclosan, an anti-bacterial and anti-microbial agent, can impact the nervous system of humans as researchers at Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad (IIT-H), have found that the chemical, even when used well within the permissible limits, can pose a huge threat to quality of life.
Triclosan is used in several consumer products to increase their shelf life by stopping the growth of unwanted micro-organisms, which might degrade the product. IIT-H researchers found that while the permissible limit of triclosan is 0.3% in India, it’s usage, even 500 times lower than the permissible limit, can cause potent neurotoxic effects. The research findings were recently published in the scientific journal ‘Chemosphere’ of the United Kingdom.
“A person’s motor functions such as walking and behaviour can be directly affected by the usage of triclosan. The chemical affects the structure of neurons and the architecture of the brain that control all motor skills. Even though 0.3% of triclosan is used in many products, it still poses a risk to human health,” IIT-H associate professor, department of biotechnology, Anamika Bhargava said.
Triclosan exists even in kitchenware and clothes although its initial use in the 1960s was restricted to medical care products. Generally, in very low amounts, triclosan might be well tolerated by humans, but the use of triclosan-based products on a daily basis poses a big risk to humans in the long term.
In 2017, the Food and Drug Administration in the US reviewed the evidence against triclosan and imposed a partial ban on its use. However, India lacks any such regulation so far on the use of triclosan-based products. “At this concentration, it can be toxic and cause neuro-behavioural alterations in humans. Through our study, we caution usage of triclosan and suggest restricted usage or ban in India to prevent long term damage,” Anamika added.
Triclosan is used in several consumer products to increase their shelf life by stopping the growth of unwanted micro-organisms, which might degrade the product. IIT-H researchers found that while the permissible limit of triclosan is 0.3% in India, it’s usage, even 500 times lower than the permissible limit, can cause potent neurotoxic effects. The research findings were recently published in the scientific journal ‘Chemosphere’ of the United Kingdom.
“A person’s motor functions such as walking and behaviour can be directly affected by the usage of triclosan. The chemical affects the structure of neurons and the architecture of the brain that control all motor skills. Even though 0.3% of triclosan is used in many products, it still poses a risk to human health,” IIT-H associate professor, department of biotechnology, Anamika Bhargava said.
Triclosan exists even in kitchenware and clothes although its initial use in the 1960s was restricted to medical care products. Generally, in very low amounts, triclosan might be well tolerated by humans, but the use of triclosan-based products on a daily basis poses a big risk to humans in the long term.
In 2017, the Food and Drug Administration in the US reviewed the evidence against triclosan and imposed a partial ban on its use. However, India lacks any such regulation so far on the use of triclosan-based products. “At this concentration, it can be toxic and cause neuro-behavioural alterations in humans. Through our study, we caution usage of triclosan and suggest restricted usage or ban in India to prevent long term damage,” Anamika added.
All Comments ()+^ Back to Top
Refrain from posting comments that are obscene, defamatory or inflammatory, and do not indulge in personal attacks, name calling or inciting hatred against any community. Help us delete comments that do not follow these guidelines by marking them offensive. Let's work together to keep the conversation civil.
HIDE