Molecules Around Me Reflection

In each and every one of our lives we use chemicals on a regular basis without realizing
it. To my discovery the amount of chemicals we use in our daily lives were at large quantities.
Many give the word chemical a poor connotation. They are usually perceived as harmful or
dangerous, which many are but not all. Throughout my home I was able to discover an abundant
amount of products that were created from chemicals or contained some sort of chemical within
them. The majority of chemicals I came to recognize were not harmful or hazardous unless
ingested or exposed to at high dosages.
My first product that was found in my pantry was Liquid Aminos which is used as a soy
sauce alternative. This products ingredients were solely made out of chemical acids. Through
minimal research I was able to find out the bulk of amino acids were important functions that
assisted with the release of hormones and filtration of toxins within the blood stream. Health
hazards of this product were very minimal. There was always a possibility of having an allergic
reaction to the individual compounds. Over consumption of this product may result in increase of
stomach acids and irregular hormonal release. When consuming this product I will be mindful of
the amount I use in order to prevent any dangerous reactions.
The second commodity is a supplement that a mass amount of people throughout the
world ingest. Aleve, Ibuprofen, mostly known as painkillers tablets are found in our medicine
cabinet. Much of the chemicals that are found in Aleve are functions that help with the ease of
manufacture production, appeal of the capsule, and releasing agents. Ingestion of the chemicals
that makeup the drug alone are not damaging to human body unless absorbed in considerable
amounts. Allergic reactions, increase in bowel movements, and kidney weight decrease may
occur when overexposed to the certain chemicals. Ingesting the pain killers as a whole over the
recommended dosage will result in kidney and intestine malfunctions or failure. The labels that
are placed onto the bottle will explicitly tell you the warnings, and side affects of taking the
specific drug. Place this type of medicine out of children's reach, take precautions and read the
labeling very carefully before consuming the drug.
Last but not least, the product I examined last was found in the bathroom. Hairspray is a
common beauty product that a great amount of people use. I have found that the chemicals
within hairspray are mainly fumes, odors, and gaseous lubricants to compose the product for a
more appealing smooth aroma. The three main hazards that come along with this commodity are
its flammability, cause of respiratory dysfunctions, and skin irritation. As long as the consumer is
not exposed or inhaling an extreme amount of the hairspray the health of the user will suffice.
Discovering the different types of chemicals that I use daily was fascinating and
educational to learn about. I believe this will benefit me in the long run; familiarizing myself
with the chemical properties of each product will help me become more aware of the benefits,
dangers, and hazards of individual commodities.