Integrative Wellness Centers: Glyphosate: The Health Risks of the Most Common Herbicide

 


Glyphosate: The Health Risks of the Most Common Herbicide

Glyphosate, a broad-spectrum herbicide, has become a central figure in agricultural practices across North America since its introduction in the 1970s. Known commercially as Roundup, it revolutionized weed control, making it easier and more efficient for farmers to manage their crops. However, as its use has proliferated, so too have concerns regarding its health impacts. Let’s take a look at the health risks associated with glyphosate, its effects on the health of North Americans, the differences in its regulation globally, and the benefits of sourcing organic produce.‍

The Rise of Glyphosate

Glyphosate works by inhibiting an enzyme pathway, the shikimic acid pathway, which is crucial for plant growth. This pathway is absent in animals, initially leading to assumptions about its safety for humans and animals. Glyphosate’s widespread use can be attributed to the advent of genetically modified (GM) crops designed to resist it, allowing farmers to apply the herbicide broadly without damaging their crops.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, glyphosate usage in the United States has increased nearly 16-fold since the introduction of GM crops in the mid-1990s. In 2016 alone, approximately 287 million pounds of glyphosate were applied to agricultural land in the U.S. This dramatic increase in glyphosate usage has raised significant concerns about its long-term health impacts on humans.

Note:  The above comes directly from their website.  Click here to read more.

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