For a long time, Roundup has been the go-to herbicide for
farmers and gardeners. But research indicates that it is hazardous to your health
and the environment. Roundup is a glyphosate-based herbicide, and glyphosate is
said to have a 41% higher chance of causing non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
The chemical is also linked to environmental impacts since
it damages microbes that are essential to plant and animal health. Research
also shows that when glyphosate enters streams and rivers, it affects aquatic
life as well as the environment, and the effects are long-term.
The herbicide may be connected to a number of grave medical
diseases, including several forms of cancer, immune system issues, and
infertility. If you happen to experience any of these issues after using
Roundup, consider filing a Roundup cancer lawsuit.
Considering the issues that come with Roundup, it is best to
start looking for better alternatives. We've listed a number of safe Roundup
substitutes that you may use to maintain weed-free lawns, gardens, and
farmlands without endangering your health.
Alternatives to Roundup
Vinegar
Industrial vinegar, which has an acetic acid level of 20 to
30 percent, is highly recommended as a Roundup alternative, but ordinary home
vinegar isn't powerful enough to effectively combat weeds. However, there are
hazards associated with using strong vinegar, as it can burn skin and eyes, so,
you must wear safety goggles and protective clothes while using it. Frogs and
other small animals that seek cover in gardens and farmlands may also be harmed
by it, which is a troubling aspect.
Essential oils
Essential oils such as peppermint and pine could burn the
leaves of weeds, but they're not likely to have an impact on the roots
underground. Before using this method of weed management, pet owners should
educate themselves on essential oils because many essential oils are poisonous for dogs and cats. It is best that you practice caution
and keep your pets indoors for a few days if you decide to use this technique
of weed control.
Corn gluten
Corn gluten is a dry powder, a byproduct of manufacturing
corn starch, that is harmless for both people and the environment. The only
issue is that, even though corn gluten may inhibit the growth of new weeds, it
has little effect on weeds that are already grown.
Salt
Salt is a natural herbicide and can be used effectively for
weed management. However, you need to remember that it's crucial to avoid
covering the soil surrounding the weeds with salt and to just salt the leaves
of the weeds directly. This is because salt may damage plants when it seeps
into the soil in large amounts.
Borax
Borax, sometimes referred to as sodium borate, is a
naturally occurring substance that is readily dissolved in water and can be
used as a potent herbicide. It is regularly found in a wide range of home
goods, including cleaning supplies and laundry detergents, and is considered harmless.
Simply combine 10 ounces of powdered borax with 2.5 gallons of water to create
a borax-based herbicide, and once the borax has completely dissolved, use a
spray bottle to spray it over the weeds. You must take care not to spray over
grasses and other plants because the borax solution may kill them too.
Research has shown that the use of Roundup is directly
related to certain types of cancer. This clearly shows that you need to be
cautious when using Roundup. The alternatives mentioned above can help you with
weed control without causing you the harm that Roundup would, so, it is best
that you give them a try.
