This story is part of a series on the 30th anniversary of the National Minimum Age Drinking Act, passed by Congress on July 17, 1984. (CNN)Dwight B. Heath knows what he is about to say will sound a little crazy to most people.
Moth balls can help keep raccoons away. Lavender is a natural moth repellent. Moth balls are usually made from naphthalene. Running clothes through a dryer can kill any moth eggs. Moth balls can prevent moths from damaging treasured blankets for decades.
Health Effects of Mothballs. Mothballs are nearly 100% active ingredient, and the active ingredient may be either naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene. Each active ingredient can cause different health effects if the exposure is high enough. Mothballs slowly turn from solids to toxic vapor. When you smell mothballs, you are inhaling the insecticide. Mothballs can also be dangerous if they are chewed or eaten. Children, pets and wildlife may mistake them for food or candy and eat them. One mothball can cause serious harm if eaten by a small child.