Related Terms

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Background

• Overview: Water pollution is the contamination of drinking water, ground water, or any other source of water on the planet. Contamination may result from a number of sources, such as chemicals or medications that are improperly disposed of, acid rain, industrial waste, or bacteria.
• Water covers about 70% of the earth and is one of the planet's most vital natural resources. All life depends on this compound of hydrogen and oxygen.
• Water is important for health, sanitation/hygiene, agriculture, electricity production, industry and commerce, and recreation.
• Nearly all of earth's water is located in saltwater oceans and seas. Freshwater (lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams) makes up the remaining three percent of all of earth's water, though much of it is frozen or located underground. This leaves only 0.01% of the planet's freshwater accessible for drinking, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the United States Geological Survey.
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Technique

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Theory/Evidence

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Health Impact/Safety

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Future Research or Applications

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Author Information

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References

Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.

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