Despite all the self-serving BP commercials and overly optimistic (and often premature) "official" pronouncements, the environmental disaster in the Gulf will continue to threaten millions of lives for years to come. Of particular concern for humans are the toxic chemical compounds like benzene that have been unleashed from the oil and dispersants. In this article, we will look at how natural items can help remove benzene and other dangerous chemicals and help gulf coast residents and workers better weather the toxic storm.

Benzene has been found to be dangerous at mere parts per billion (PPB). It can cause cancers of the blood, leukemia, respiratory disorders and skin problems as well as damage to DNA. Whereas EPA benzene measurements in urban areas range from below 1 PPB to slightly over 100 PPB, measurements in the gulf have been as high as hundreds of parts per million and continue to be higher than so-called "safe" levels.

One of the best and least expensive items that can remove benzene and other toxins is activated charcoal. Activated charcoal aDsorbs (pulls to itself), and it will pull toxins out of the bloodstream and through the intestines. Hence the benzene and other toxins will go directly into ingested charcoal and out the toilet without stress to the liver and other organs.

Some believe that activated charcoal also adsorbs nutrients, but a study done on sheep did not find any loss of essential nutrients. Even if charcoal does adsorb some nutrients in their unnatural/isolated form, it would be well worth it to eliminate benzene and other toxins. Since activated charcoal is sometimes used to determine benzene levels, it would also be a great idea to have bowls of it sitting around houses and offices.

Baking soda (bicarbonate) is another valuable item which removes toxins. Internally, baking soda mops up toxic messes and carries the poisons away. In the process it makes it easier for the body to maintain an alkaline balance. Externally, baking soda can be used in combination with magnesium chloride (such as Epsom salts and magnesium bath flakes) as a cleansing bath for the emergency treatment of toxin exposure. Use plenty of each (1 to 5 pounds). A baking soda/magnesium bath can also provide soothing relief for the flu-like aches and pains which have been widely reported among gulf coast workers and residents.

Bentonite clay can also be used both internally and externally in clay baths to remove toxins. Another powerhouse for eliminating benzene is lemon juice, a well-known benzene binder. Use about 12 large lemons per one gallon of distilled water.

To help eliminate toxins faster and more efficiently, be sure to take measures which help protect and regenerate the body's essential toxin processing organ, the liver, as well as items to keep the bile ducts open and flowing. Such items include milk thistle, alpha-lipoic acid, selenium, beetroot juice, turmeric, coconut oil, and the herb goldenseal.

Other suggestions:

*Use cleanses for the liver, gall bladder, colon, kidneys and blood.

*Chlorella, cilantro, parsley, apple pectin, niacin and zeolite minerals are all good cleansers.

*Use glutathione suppositories immediately upon the signs of any symptom onset.

*Take iodine, selenium, vitamin B12 and vitamin C to help eliminate toxins and help the body weather the toxic storm in the gulf.

*Help ward off toxin-induced illnesses by building a strong foundation for good health and a strong immune system, the body's natural first line of defense against illness. See:

Building a Foundation for Better Health and Longevity

*Lastly, use abundant house plants such as the Spider Lily to help remove airborne toxins in homes and offices. See:

If you live near the Gulf of Mexico oil spill, think "house plants"

Sources included:

http://www.amazon.com/Activated-Charcoal-Medical-Applications-Second/dp/0824793005
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/155258/the_dangers_of_benzene.html
http://www.spiritofhealing.com/articles/2010/08/benzene-benzene-detoxification.html
http://www.healingtools.tripod.com/char1.html
http://blog.imva.info/?p=849