Essential oils are volatile plant byproducts with the odors and tastes characteristic of the plant they come from. These oils are used for various aromatherapy, beauty and health purposes. Some essential oils are antimicrobial and can remedy many common infections. Learn about the antimicrobial properties of six popular essential oils.
Melaleuca Alternifolia Oil
This oil, more commonly known as tea tree oil, is considered the most widely antiseptic essential oil. Its uses range from fighting infections for minor cuts and scrapes to treating fungal infections, such as nail fungus and scalp fungal infections.
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil
Lavender oil has many uses, including the healing of minor insect bites, scrapes and cuts by helping to ward off infection. This oil also has anti-inflammatory properties that aid in healing burns and swelling.
Oregano Oil
Oregano oil, a potent essential oil, is often only recommended for use on the advice of a medical practitioner who is well-versed in natural remedies. Oregano oil is a natural antibiotic used to treat yeast infections and is being studied as a replacement for pharmaceutical antibiotics.
Citrus Limonum (Lemon) Oil
Lemon oil is well known for its antimicrobial properties. This oil is an effective disinfectant used in many household cleaners to help kill bacteria and other microbes in the home.
Eucalyptus Oil
This oil is currently being studied as an effective natural alternative to antibiotic-resistant bacteria with studies showing the oil is effective in combating E. coli and Klebsiella in small doses. It is also used as an antiseptic and disinfectant for cuts and scrapes.
Patchouli Oil
Patchouli oil's antimicrobial effects are primarily related to the treatment of the bacteria that causes acne. The specific strains of acne bacteria that patchouli oil combats are the propionibacterium acnes and staphylococcus epidermidis strains.
Tags: antimicrobial properties, bacteria that, being studied, cuts scrapes, fungal infections