Natural Health Glossary
Medical Terms, Therapies, Accreditation

Don't forget to check the Herbal Remedies/Herbology 101 reference for more definitions!

volatile organic compounds (voc)

Any of the naturally occuring (organic) chemicals that have a high vapour pressure and will become airborne at room temperature.

The term Volatile Organic Compound is often used in relation to organic solvents, paint additives, and fuels. Volatile Organic Compounds can be found in paint thinner, aerosol spray propellants, gasoline, kerosene, turpentine, dry cleaning solvents, and essential oils.

They are also naturally emitted by plants and trees.   (more info below)

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Not all Volatile Organic Compounds are harmful to your health.

However:

• Many VOCs are flammable.
• Benzene is a a likely human carcinogen and is definitely toxic. Formaldehyde is an irritant and a sensitizer.
• Other VOCs contribute to sick building syndrome.
• VOCs released when fuels are burnt (like kerosene, gasoline) are a major contributor to smog.
• Methanes (particularly those released by manure) play a large factor in contaminating ground water.
• Others cause eye, nose, and throat irritation; headaches, loss of coordination, nausea; damage to liver, kidney, and central nervous system.

On the other hand, research at the University of Southhampton has shown that certain VOCs found in esential oils (and disbursed via candles or wind-based diffusers) can have antibacterial properties even on food preparation. (see volatile oils for more information.)

What you can do

You can limit the amount of harmful VOCs in your environment by cutting down on the amounts of cosmetic and cleaning products that contain wax, solvents, and aerosol sprays in your home. Other items to watch for include: paints, paint strippers, wood preservatives; aerosol sprays; cleansers and disinfectants; moth repellents and air fresheners; stored fuels and automotive products; hobby supplies; dry-cleaned clothing.

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These definitions are not intended as a standalone reference guide; they are linked from other pages for the convenience of the users of this site.

Information on this website is for informational purposes only.
Please consult a qualified health practitioner before taking any course of action.