Dr. Manoj Sharma-
[Dr. Sharma is a Professor of the Social and Behavioral Health Department and an Adjunct Professor in Internal Medicine at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). He is a global expert in health promotion.]
Glyphosate is a chemical found in herbicides to regulate the growth of weeds and grasses. It is among the most widely used pesticides in the world with applications in agriculture, forestry, and lawn and garden care. Glyphosate (in products such as RoundUpTM) use in the United States has increased rapidly since the introduction of glyphosate-tolerant crops in 1996 and continues to grow.
However, a recent animal study published in the Journal of Neuroinflammation suggests its deleterious effects on the brain and possible contribution to Alzheimer’s Disease. This has triggered debate in health circles. Although the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) maintains that glyphosate does not pose a threat to human health or the environment when used according to directions, there are known health risks. Glyphosate has been found to have detrimental effects on the respiratory system (nose, bronchi, lungs). These include irritation or itching in the nose and watering from the nose. Studies have shown precipitation and exaggeration of asthma among people who use glyphosate. People such as landscape workers or agriculturalists who are exposed to large amounts of glyphosate products for sustained amounts of time tend to be more likely to develop respiratory adverse effects. Glyphosate is also a known skin and eye irritant and can cause problems for many people. If exposed to large quantities, it causes nausea, vomiting, and burns in the mouth if ingested. Animal studies have also shown that glyphosate can cause developmental impacts (such as low birth weight and difficulties with bone and organ growth) when pregnant animals are given glyphosate. Animal studies have also shown birth defects after exposure to glyphosate. Some studies have indicated that it has the potential to make bacteria less sensitive to some antibiotics.
There are many alternatives to glyphosate such as other herbicides, natural methods, and manual methods. Among other herbicides, some common alternatives are Diquat, Glufosinate, Pelargonic acid, Ammonium nonanoate, Paraquat, and Salflufenacil. However, all these herbicides have some harmful effects too. If one chooses to use herbicides, then all precautions should be taken not to allow one to come in direct contact with them. One should wear a long-sleeved shirt, full pants, shoes, and socks and use eye protection and chemical-resistant gloves. Hence, natural methods and manual methods are preferable. Among natural methods, the use of soap, vinegar, salt combinations, and corn gluten meal can be used to kill weeds. Among manual methods, mulching is a potent means to keep weeds under control and is good for the environment too. One can also pour boiling water over adult weeds.
So, in maintaining your lawn this year try to avoid the use of glyphosate and other herbicides. Use natural and manual methods as far as possible and do not worry too much about having a completely weed-free lawn. After all, health is more important than the beauty of a lawn.
