In plastic, natural, wood or even felt: in the kingdom of fir trees, there is something for everyone. But not all of them are good for your health. Dr. Gérald Kierzek, emergency physician and medical director of True Medical, shares with us some practical advice for making the right choice.
Artificial trees: practical, but risky
If artificial trees have been popular for several years, it is because they are not only practical, but also reusable. These plastic trees avoid having to buy (and therefore sacrifice) new trees every year. However, these false conifers are not without health risks.
“These artificial trees contain plastics and PVC (polyvinyl chloride), and one of the main plasticizers in these materials is phthalates” explains Bryan Cummings, researcher at Drexel University’s College of Engineering, in the columns of the Huffington Post.
However, phthalates are recognized as proven endocrine disruptors: they are accused of disrupting the hormonal system. Most of them have already been banned from cosmetic formulas by the European Union.
The last criticized and criticizable element of these “fake” trees? As a precaution, they contain a flame retardant, which
“some of the compounds could be neurotoxins or carcinogens with long-term exposure,” adds the researcher. So many substances to avoid according to Dr Gérald Kierzek.
The best tree for your health is…
So you will have understood: plastic trees should be avoided – and replaced with natural, freshly cut trees.
“The healthiest tree for indoors is a natural organic tree (AB/Ecocert label), such as Nordmann or Spruce grown without pesticides or chemical fertilizers, because it minimizes toxic residues and added VOCs, unlike artificial ones which release phthalates and endocrine disrupting PVC”, says the medical director of True Medical.
In detail, opt for a certified organic fir tree (for example: from producers of the Les Sapins Bio de France association) and freshly cut with a short portage to avoid stress and mold. “Also check for the absence of a strong chemical odor and a damp trunk without massively falling needles. Avoid conventional or imported treated fir trees, potential sources of phytosanitary residues,” specifies the doctor.
In case of allergic conditions, what precautions should be taken?
If you are allergic, it may be a good idea to favor certain fir trees that do not release pollen or resin.
“In fact, monitor natural volatile organic compounds (pinenes, these famous molecules responsible for the resin odor, cause respiratory irritation in 5 to 10% of allergy sufferers), pollen and needles (skin and respiratory allergens), as well as mold in the event of improper storage,” advises the doctor.
Other little practical tips to adopt to avoid any asthma attack:
- At the supermarket, choose organic Nordmann fir, with less prickly needles and a less strong odor than spruce;
- Ventilate the room 24 to 48 hours before installation and vacuum regularly;
- In case of asthma or rhinitis, briefly expose yourself to the tree and, if possible, opt for a potted fir tree with roots so you can move it or replant it outside.
What if you want to recycle an old tree?
“In this case, carefully inspect the chosen tree to detect possible mold (black spots, persistent humidity), the presence of accumulated volatile organic compounds (VOCs) (rancid or bitter odor) and plastic degradation (yellowing). Wash said tree with vinegar water, leave it to dry outside for 1-2 weeks in the sun and air it outdoors for 48 hours before use. Finally, if it is damaged, throw it away,” recommends the doctor.
Finally, if your artificial tree is more than 10 years old, opt for a new, natural and organic tree instead!