Trigger (Weedkiller)
Trigger weedkiller contains MCPA, which may cause fatigue, hormone issues, or breathing irritation. Avoid for 8 weeks, use natural alternatives, and support detox.
🌿 What is Trigger (Weedkiller)?
Trigger is a selective herbicide used on broadleaf weeds in pastures and turf. It contains MCPA, a synthetic compound that disrupts plant growth. While effective, it may trigger sensitivities in people with respiratory, liver, or immune issues.
🤔 Why Do I Have a Sensitivity to Trigger Weedkiller?
You may be sensitive to Trigger because it contains MCPA, a synthetic herbicide that your body may not tolerate well. Here's why:
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MCPA mimics plant hormones – But in humans, it can disrupt normal cellular function and trigger stress responses
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It’s hard to detox – If your liver or detox pathways are sluggish, your body may struggle to clear it efficiently
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It can irritate multiple systems – Especially the respiratory tract, skin, and nervous system
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You may have existing chemical sensitivity – Which means your immune system overreacts to synthetic compounds
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Even small exposures add up – Trigger can linger in soil, air, or water, and repeated low doses can overwhelm sensitive systems
🛠️ What Can I Do About It?
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🚫 Avoid exposure for at least 8 weeks—stay clear of treated areas and wash anything that may have come in contact
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🌱 Switch to organic or non-toxic herbicides in your home and garden
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💧 Use a HEPA air purifier and ventilate indoor spaces after outdoor exposure
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🍋 Support detox pathways with nutrients like glutathione, NAC, milk thistle, and vitamin C
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🛡️ Strengthen your immune system with anti-inflammatory foods, rest, and hydration
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🚿 Rinse off after being outdoors and wash clothing separately to avoid residue spread
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🌀 Filter your water if you suspect contamination from runoff or spraying nearby
💊 Which Supplements Can Help with Trigger Sensitivity?
- Glutathione – Helps neutralize toxic herbicide residues and supports liver detox.
- Milk thistle – A gentle herb that enhances liver function and protects liver cells.
- NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) – Supports glutathione production and helps reduce chemical-induced oxidative stress.
- Vitamin C – Boosts immune defense and calms inflammation.
- Omega-3 fatty acids – Reduces inflammatory responses in the lungs, skin, and gut.
🌟 Why Might I Have a Sensitivity to Trigger but Not Other Weedkillers?
You might react to Trigger specifically because of its active ingredient, MCPA, which differs chemically from other herbicides. Here’s why:
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Unique chemical structure – MCPA is a phenoxy herbicide that mimics plant hormones, which your body may find harder to break down compared to other weedkillers
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Different detox demands – Your liver may process other herbicides better, but MCPA could strain specific detox pathways you're less efficient in
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Cumulative exposure – You might already have a buildup of MCPA in your system, making you more reactive to even small amounts
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Immune reactivity is selective – Chemical sensitivity isn't always broad; your body may see MCPA as a "threat" while ignoring others
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Formulation matters – Inert ingredients or surfactants in Trigger (not found in other products) could also be triggering your symptoms
‼️ Common Exposure Sources:
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Lawn and garden treatments on residential or commercial properties
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Pastures and crop fields treated for broadleaf weeds
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Golf courses, parks, and turf areas using selective herbicides
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Contaminated soil, water, or air near recently sprayed areas
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Clothing, shoes, or pets that come in contact with treated grass
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Drift from nearby spraying (especially on windy days)
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Residue on tools or equipment used in treated zones
✅ Alternatives (if tolerated):
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Manual weeding – Uproots the entire plant, roots and all
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Boiling water – Kills weeds on contact (great for driveways or cracks)
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Vinegar + salt + dish soap – A simple DIY herbicide for spot treatment
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Mulching – Blocks sunlight and prevents weed growth
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Flame weeding – Uses heat to kill surface weeds (use with caution)
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Avenger Weed Killer – Citrus oil-based, biodegradable
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Green Gobbler – Vinegar-based, non-toxic
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Doctor Kirchner – Mix of ocean water, vinegar, and soap
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EcoSMART – Plant-based, safe around pets and kids