Phthalates

1 min readEvidence-linked topicGreen Medicine Encyclopedia

Description

Phthalates are are esters of phthalic acid.  They are  mainly used as plasticizers (substances added to plastics to increase their flexibility, transparency, durability, and longevity).  They are primarily used to soften Polyvinyl Chloride.

 

Toxic Effects of Phthalates

Nervous System

 Exposure to Phthalates may increase the risk of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and may exacerbate the severity of ADHD.  [1]

 

Respiratory System

 Exposure to Phthalates may increase the risk of Asthma.  [2]

 

Environmental Sources of Phthalates

 Children’s Toys

 Cleaning Products

 Personal Care Items

 Plastics

 

This is one of more than 5,000 interlinked topics in the Green Medicine Encyclopedia.

Explore the full encyclopedia free