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Making Use of the Antibacterial Properties of Essential Oils

The anti-bacterial action of essential oils may be their most studied effect, in-part because these are simple experiments to perform. Place a piece of filter paper saturated with an essential oil in the center of a petri dish and watch the growth, or lack of, bacteria around the paper. The larger the area where bacteria do not grow, the stronger the action of that particular essential oil inhibiting that particular strain of microbe. This test, known as an Aromatogram, was popularized by French scientist Paul Belaiche. Through extensive research, large tables of data now allow aromatherapists to quickly find the most efficacious oils once the infecting species of bacteria is known. But you don't have to be a scientist to make use of this information - there are many simple, effective means for using essential remedies for yourself and your family and children as part of a holistic natural health program for your household.

Each single, pure essential oil consists of several, sometimes hundreds of distinct natural chemicals. Essential oils derive their antimicrobial effect from their unique chemical makeup. It turns out that nature has been doing a remarkable job of therapeutic blending. Many of these have antimicrobial activity, and show synergistic effects; blends of the chemicals - as found naturally in the oils - can be more potent than any individual chemical alone. Studies have often shown that combinations of essential oil components are more effective against bacteria than any single isolated constituent. Think of this the next time you might reach for Bactine or some iodine tincture - the formulations nature has made herself will likely work better, and will most assuredly smell nicer.

There's evidence for an incredible spectrum of antimicrobial action from essential oils, yet it is important to select the right oils in the right amounts. Topical application of Oregano and Thyme may be the best solution for a case of stubborn nail fungus, yet these oils are far too intense for use on soft tissue of any kind except in the most dilute blends. Often a combination of a potent antiseptic with a known soothing oil can improve the overall effectiveness. Here we will briefly profile these highly-regarded oils, and look at some formulas and methods of application: Tea Tree, Lavender, Oregano, Geranium, and Lemon.

Tea Tree essential oil is known throughout the world for its protective properties against infections. The leaves have been used for centuries to heal wounds and skin infections by indigenous Australians. Tea Tree is a must for every natural first aid kit, both for the home and for the traveling family. One of the safest and most effective ways of controlling minor infections is the immediate intervention action of Tea Tree. The oil is well tolerated, and cases of irritation by this oil are almost unheard of. A drop on the gauze before applying a bandage can keep the reddening indication of infection from children's cuts and scrapes. Also for the young ones, Tea Tree can be diluted to 5% in any carrier like Jojoba oil or Aloe Vera for a gentle topical antiseptic.

Often called 'medicine chest in a bottle' Lavender is the most versatile aromatic oil in use today. An antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and anxiolytic, Lavender is helpful in the healing of small burns, cuts and insect bites. The cooling aroma disperses heat and inflammation and brings relief from pain, spasms, and general unrest. With its calming and balancing properties, Lavender is very supportive of deep sleep; as noted in 'Clinical Aromatherapy', studies indicate that the aroma of Lavender enabled better rest than common sleeping pills with no side effects. Interestingly, Lavender imparts this action in healing wounds as well. For healing unbroken skin such as burns, apply Lavender 'neat' to the wound several times a day; insect bites also get a 'neat' treatment. For cuts and scrapes, keep a 50/50 blend of Lavender and Tea Tree on hand for the best all-purpose antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and pain relieving solution.

While the Tea Tree and Lavender blend gives us a formula for regular use, Oregano is the all-time heavy-hitter of essential oils for antimicrobial action. Oregano is serious medicine; it has been the subject of many successful scientific evaluations. Interest in the oil's efficacy growing in amongst the world's medical practitioners as infectious microbes become more and more resistant to synthetic antibiotics. Pure oil of Oregano is exceptionally strong - too strong for topical application except in the most stubborn cases, and then only with careful attention. Oregano holds the most promise as a systemic antimicrobial; Oregano oil can be found in enteric-coated (for targeting parasites and bacteria in the intestines) and regular capsules for support of the immune system during illness. Consult a qualified medical practitioner for dosage recommendations.

Also a highly-regarded antimicrobial, but with gentler action and scent, Geranium essential oil is a very worthwhile addition to the home medicine chest. Geranium has exceptional healing properties for the skin, creating balance between oily and dry states, and is useful for both over-oily and over-dry conditions.. A non-drying, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, astringent, and general tonic, Geranium is described in the aromatherapy literature as a cure for acne, general dermatitis and eczema. Geranium essential oil is one of the few that has been used successfully against the MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) bacteria in laboratory studies (see Pub Med for research abstracts on this suject). Geranium may also be used as a local antiseptic for small wounds; there are many Geranium varieties available, though the oil produced in Egypt may be the most potent antimicrobial, with a brilliant sweet and herbaceous aroma accompanying its healing effects.

Lemon essential oil is a powerful antiseptic and bactericide that performs many tasks around the house, as well as for your health. Lemon has a tonic action on the lymphatic system and a stimulating action on the digestive system, additionally providing relief from insect bites and tension headaches. Use this pleasant antimicrobial blend with confidence to clean counter tops, windows, and door handles: two drops each of Lemon, Pine, and Eucalyptus Radiata essential oils in four ounces of distilled or spring water. Keep a spray bottle of this solution handy for your day-to-day cleaning; it's not only an effective antiseptic, but its aroma will bring a smile to your face.

There are many, many choices for antibacterial and antiseptic essential oils - these are a few of the most commonly used oils with a broad range of applications. Many oils, particularly when properly blended, can have greater specificity for your individual needs. There are many excellent books available by reputable authors - 'Advanced Aromatherapy' and 'Medical Aromatherapy' by Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt, and any of the books by Valerie Worwood are worth investigating to further your knowledge in the practical application of essential oils. These books cover the safe use of essential oils in general, and specific conditions you'll want to be aware of when delving deeper into aromatherapy. In selecting essential oils over synthetic preparations, you'll find great satisfaction making the natural choice for yourself and your family.

Article Source: http://www.articlemap.com

The author specializes in using pure therapeutic essential oils for aromatherapy, with their natural healing properties. More information is available through The Ananda Apothecary at anandaapothecary.com.

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