Green Hippo Glossary

1,4 Dioxane:

A clear liquid that is used primarily as a solvent in the manufacturing of chemicals. It is also used in shampoos, soaps, and laundry detergent. It can result in liver and kidney damage, and potentially, death. Our products DO NOT contain this chemical.

Aloe Vera:

Is a species of aloe. It is used in the treatment of skin discomfort. Today it is used for treating such skin conditions as eczema, ring worm and as a dry skin conditioner.

Antibacterial:

A product that kills or inhibits the growth of bacteria, generally in foods, inanimate surfaces, or hands; the property of killing or inhibiting the growth of bacteria.

Biodegradable:

Capable of being decomposed by the action of living organisms. The breakdown of materials, organic and non-organic, by a physiological environment.

Chinese Golden Thread:

Coptis Trifolia Extract is a plant found in North America and used by the Native Indians and foreign settlers as a treatment for sores. It is also an anti-flammatory and antibacterial herb.

Certified Organic Extracts:

A certification process for producers of organic food and other organic agricultural products.

Dioxins:

Long-lasting highly toxic hydrocarbons; byproducts of various industrial processes, including paper and pesticide manufacturing and waste incineration. Dioxins are the most potent carcinogens known to science and also may affect human development and reproduction.

Glycerin (Glycerol):

It is used in a medical, pharmaceutical and personal care preparations. It is a means of improving smoothness and providing lubrication to the skin and hair.

Natural:

Existing in or produced by nature, free from pretension or artificial components.

Neem Oil:

Comes from a bark of a tree in India and has proven to have medicinal properties, such as, antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral.

Non-Toxic:

Does not damage or pollute the environment.

Organic:

Simply stated organic produce and other ingredients are grown without the use of pesticides, synthetic fertilizers or genetically modified organisms.

Paraben:

A class of chemicals widely used as preservatives in both the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. They have been linked to skin irritations, dermatitis and allergies. Our products DO NOT contain these chemicals.

Permethrin:

One of a class of synthetic chemicals, called pyrethroids, that are derived from natural chemicals found in chrysanthemums. The synthetic varieties are significantly more potent and persistent than naturally occurring products, and permethrin has been classified by EPA as "likely to be carcinogenic to humans." Exposure to permethrin may cause numbing, tingling, or burning sensation on one's skin. Permethrin is known to be very toxic to cats, causing muscle tremors, seizures, salivation, vomiting and even death. Veterinarians caution against using permethrin containing products if there are cats in the home.

Phosphate:

An inorganic chemical used in agricultural industries. Phosphates are also used in detergents which are washed into rivers and lakes, destroying the environment. Our products DO NOT contain this chemical.

Pyrethrins:

Pyrethrins are compounds derived from pyrethrum, an extract of the chrysanthemum flower. Pyrethrins, like many other insecticides, inhibit the functioning of the nervous system of pests and can be toxic to the human and animal nervous systems as well. Additionally, they can cause allergic reactions and exacerbate asthma. Used in pet and equine products and in household insecticides it has been associated with pet illnesses and deaths.

Pyrethroids:

A synthetic version of Pyrethrins containing the same characteristics.

Tea Tree Oil:

A natural powerful antiseptic and stimulates the immune system.

Triclosan Free:

Triclosan is a carcinogenic which is a cancer forming chemical. All of our products are Triclosan free.

Zanthoxyloids (Fagara Bark):

Natural antifungal, antioxidant, and antibacterial germ fighter.