When taking a shower, it is doubtful the thought, "How is this shampoo affecting my nerves ?" ever comes to mind. Though perhaps more people should pay attention to the products they are using on a daily basis, as some contain a potentially dangerous chemical, methylisothiazolinone (MIT), which may have detrimental effects on the nervous system.

While the purpose of MIT is to prevent bacteria from developing, researchers found that contact with it restricted growth of axons and dendrites of immature nerves found in rat brain cells. The rat studies also showed that chronic exposure to this chemical led to a malfunction in the way neurons communicate with one another. One researcher explained that direct exposure to high concentrations of MIT would irritate the skin because it can damage skin cells. Yet since the chemical only affects the cells it comes in contact with, there is no way the chemical can get into the bloodstream and go to the brain.

Based on their findings, researchers concluded that people working directly with MIT are the most at risk; however, additional tests still must be administered in order to determine if MIT is harmful to humans in the concentrations found in household products.

MIT Hideouts

  • Shampoo (Head and Shoulders, Suave, Clairol)
  • Pantene hair conditioner
  • Revlon hair color
  • Hand lotions
  • Paint

Forbes December 6, 2004
EurekAlert December 5, 2004

Dr. Mercola's Comments:

I've previously posted information on my site about the hidden, and often toxic, chemicals found in commonly used products such as cosmetics and household cleaners. And, contrary to what the study shows, it is important to recognize that whatever you spread on your skin has a VERY REAL chance of being absorbed into your blood stream and causing some serious damage in your body.

Antibacterial hand soap is another household item that poses many health risks. This is because, just as MIT is put in shampoos and hand lotions to prevent bacteria from forming, antibacterial soap contains an active ingredient known as triclosan. This antibacterial agent kills bacteria and inhibits bacterial growth; however, it also has been shown to kill human cells. Antibacterial ingredients can be found in some of the same products MIT is found in, such as:

  • Laundry detergents
  • Shampoos
  • Toothpastes
  • Body washes
  • Dish soaps

The reason so many consumers use products like these is because they have been marketed as an effective and necessary way to lower the risk of infection. However, many scientists fear that widespread use could lead to a strain of resistant bacteria, or "superbugs," causing the ingredients to lose effectiveness for the times when they really are needed.

Scientists have also found that using antibacterial products apparently offers little protection against the most COMMON germs!

If you are concerned about the numerous toxic chemicals we are exposed to on a daily basis, I strongly urge you to read Our Toxic World: A Wake Up Call. The author, Dr. Doris Rapp, does a thorough job of uncovering the many ways we are exposed to toxic chemicals and how they take a toll on our health and contribute to many chronic diseases. 

© Copyright 2008 Dr. Joseph Mercola. All Rights Reserved.