Essential oils aren’t just for massages, spa treatments, and aromatherapy. Essential oils are useful in healing, and they also kill off bacteria, viruses, and fungi and fight infections. They can be a healthier method of fighting bacteria without the side effects that come with antibiotics while also avoiding the problem of antibiotic resistance.

Many essential oils have antibacterial properties that make them very versatile for household use and body care. The following oils, as well as several others, are said to be effective in fighting bacteria:

• Thyme
• Mountain Savory
• Tea Tree
• Cinnamon Bark
• Lemongrass
• Peppermint
• Oregano
• Clove
• Rose
• Cedarwood
• Eucalyptus
• Lavender
• Lemon
• Marjoram
• Valerian

Some research suggests that essential oils are more powerful antibacterial agents than penicillin and ampicillin. They have been found to actively combat bacteria and germs without disrupting the healthy balance of bacteria in the gut that is caused by the overuse of prescription antibiotics. An imbalance of the body’s natural bacteria can lead to many side effects, including the following:

• Rash
• Diarrhea
• Upset stomach
• Fungal (yeast) infections
• Severe allergic reaction that results in difficulty breathing or facial swelling (lips, tongue, throat, face)
• Vaginal yeast infection with white discharge and severe itching
• Mouth sores or white patches in your mouth or on your tongue

These issues can also lead to mood disorders, weight gain, and inflammation.

Here are some ways to make use of the antibacterial properties of essential oils:

1. Ingestion: Take a few drops of essential oils daily. This can be done by capsule, mixed in a drink, or added to recipes. There are many ways to use essential oils in cooking. Find delicious recipes here.
2. Inhalation: Diffusing essential oils is a great way to breathe in their benefits and cleanse the air. See ideas for diffusing here.
3. Body Care: There are a lot of products such as lotions and soaps that we use daily that can be replaced with all-natural mixtures made with essential oils. Browse our blog for great DIY body care recipes.
4. Household Care: Harsh chemicals for cleaning the home can be replaced by bacteria-fighting essential oils. Check out these natural homemade cleaners.

See the Reference Guide for Essential Oils to learn more about the antibacterial properties of essential oils.

Source: Reference Guide for Essential Oils, 2017 Edition, p. 381.