Why Toluene Especially Affects Smokers – and Why Hair Dyes Can Also Be Risky
Toluene, also known as methylbenzene or phenylmethane, belongs to the aromatic hydrocarbons. It is a transparent liquid with an intense smell – which many people even find pleasant.
Fun Fact: Who Discovered Toluene?
The discoverer of toluene was the Polish chemist Filip Walter, who lived in the 19th century. An exciting discovery with far-reaching consequences – even today.
Origin of Toluene: Petroleum, Balsam Tree – and Cigarettes
Toluene is mostly obtained from crude oil. But nature also provides it: for example, the balsam tree, which grows in South America, contains toluene.
Especially affected are smokers – because toluene is produced when tobacco burns and thus enters the lungs directly.
Why Toluene is Dangerous: Health Effects
Toluene can cause nerve, kidney, and liver damage. It is considered teratogenic and reproductive toxic. Even inhaling small amounts can lead to:
- Fatigue and malaise
- Irritation of the respiratory tract and bronchi
- Damage to the cornea
- Loss of consciousness
In the long term, it can also affect the pancreas, liver, and kidneys – especially in people who regularly come into contact with it, for example through cigarette smoke.
Where we encounter toluene in everyday life
Many products contain toluene – often without us knowing:
- Solvents in paints, varnishes, and corrosion protectants
- Hairsprays, gels, and hair dyes
- Cleaning and disinfecting agents
- Dyes, rubber, resins
- And even in explosives like TNT (hopefully not an everyday product!)
Toluene enters our body through the skin and respiratory tract – often unnoticed.
Fortunately: These plants can break down toluene
Many houseplants have the amazing ability to metabolize toluene from the air – completely naturally:
By the way, they are most effective in our AIRY systems, which ensure optimal root aeration and air circulation.
The author: Elisabeth Böttcher
Elisabeth is the managing director of AIRY and is responsible, among other things, for customer support. She has over ten years of experience with plants growing in the AIRY biofilter and gladly shares her knowledge as an expert along with tips and tricks. She focuses on healthy indoor air, effective plant care, and everything that contributes to a natural, beautiful home.
