There is one thing that seems to be unavoidable in life, but it is something that most of us want to avoid. I’m talking about getting sick, something that tends to happen to us multiple times throughout the year. Fortunately, there are some things that can be done, including using essential oils that have amazing properties for healing.
Essential oils are commonly used for aromatherapy and a variety of spa treatments. According to research, however, there are benefits to using essential oils for overcoming and treating a variety of diseases. With hundreds of different essential oils to choose from, it is good to know the few that have the most powerful antibacterial properties.
Essential oils have been known for years as a healing force, but you might not know that they can kill viruses, bacteria and a host of other infectious agents. In addition, they can fight the bacteria without producing severe side effects, something that may be experienced when you take an antibiotic. They are typically much safer than the prescription drug but they can also be used in conjunction with those medications.
The World Health Organization wrote a report that covered the excessive use of antibiotics. This is not only true in humans, it is also true in animals as well. It has led to an extremely serious health problem in the world, a difficulty with antibiotic resistant bacteria.
Try these 8 essential oils that will kill bacteria naturally
1. Tea tree oil
This oil is not only antibacterial, it is antiviral and antimicrobial as well. You can apply it directly to the skin full strength. It is good for conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, warts and acne.
This essential oil is also known as Melaleuca oil because it comes from the leaves of the Melaleuca plant. That plant, native to Australia, has been benefiting aboriginal communities for centuries. They use it by crushing the leaves of the tea tree and applying them to the skin where problems exist.
It became known beyond the borders of Australia in the 1920s. Since that time, numerous studies have been conducted that showed the potential healing properties of the oil. An example is a 2004 study, which showed its ability to kill bacteria and to treat wounds.
A 2013 study also showed how it can benefit humans who have wounds infected with a superbug, Staphylococcus aureus. Those who used tea tree oil showed a faster healing time.
It can also be used in a diffuser or nebulizer to help with chest or head congestion. Inhaling the steam helps to clear nasal passages and fight bacteria.
You can also apply it to areas of difficulty, such as for treating toenail fungus or athlete’s foot.
2. Oregano essential oil
Oregano is commonly used as a spice but it also is quite therapeutic. It has antibacterial and disinfecting properties and was commonly used in ancient Greece to treat wounds and for the treatment of bacterial infection.
The bacteria killing abilities of oregano essential oil can help with staff infections, and it has anti-septic, antiviral and antifungal properties. It can also reduce inflammation.
A Georgetown University study from 2001 found that oregano oil had germ killing properties that were almost as effective as prescription antibiotics.
You can treat nail fungus with oregano essential oil by putting a few drops in a small tub of water. Soak your feet in the solution or apply the oil directly to the nail.
People with sinus infections may also benefit by putting a few drops of oregano essential oil in hot water and inhaling the steam.
3. Cinnamon essential oil
This may just be the strongest antibacterial essential oil according to current research. A college study from India showed that it was tested against many different types of bacteria, including the following:
Staphylococcus aureus
Escherichia coli
Bacillus subtilis
Pseudomonas aeruginosin
Klebsiella pneumoniae
When tested, it was more powerful than other antibacterial oils, including rosemary, clove, orange, lime and lemon.
According to research on the effectiveness of cinnamon oil against bacteria during a root canal procedure, it was found to be effective. The oil eliminated bacterial growth after 1 or 2 weeks.
You can make a cinnamon essential oil homeopathic toothpaste to fight bacteria in the mouth. It can also be used in a diffuser to purify the air and kill off bacteria that has become airborne.
4. Grapefruit essential oil
According to a study from the University of Texas, grapefruit essential oil is a highly effective natural antibiotic. An additional study published in the international Journal of food science and technology reported that the oil was effective against numerous strains of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus epidermis, Escherichia coli, Salmonella Typhimurium, Serratia marcescens, and Proteus Vulgaris.
The antimicrobial properties that exist in grapefruit essential oil may also help to treat a variety of infections in cuts and wounds and could eliminate microbes in the kidneys and gut. Grapefruit essential oil may also support endocrine function and help with the digestive system.
Inhaling the oil vapors may help with mental fatigue, depression and headaches.
5. Clove essential oil
It has long been known that clove essential oil is effective in treating a toothache. People have been using it for that reason for hundreds of years and perhaps, for thousands of years.
Clove contains a high level of eugenol, which has been researched thoroughly and may provide an effective alternative to a number of medical treatments. It was highly effective against bacteria, such as E. coli and was only second to cinnamon.
To use clove essential oil for tooth pain, put a few drops on a cotton ball and apply it to the area for 15 minutes. It can also be used topically for warts and other skin conditions.
6. Thyme essential oil
A number of benefits are possible with this essential oil, including anti-septic, antibacterial and anti-spasmodic. This is according to research from the University of Tennessee’s Department of Food science and technology.
Thyme oil can be beneficial for treating infections and draining congestion. It may also help with upper respiratory conditions, including the common cold. When used regularly, it can remove toxins from the body.
Research has shown that Thyme can significantly reduce the pain of menstrual cramps and help with gout, fatigue, arthritis and other similar symptoms.
7. Lemongrass essential oil
A number of studies have shown that lemongrass is a potent antibacterial oil. It is not as strong smelling as lemon oil but it is just as powerful.
Lemongrass has the ability to inhibit bacterial growth both internally and externally. It can fight a number of bacterial infections, skin conditions, food poisoning and even body odor.
In addition, it can be used as a carrier oil for natural cleaning, using its antiseptic and anti-stringent properties to tone the skin and relieve the pain of a headache.
Lemongrass essential oil can improve blood circulation, relieve backaches, cramps and muscle spasms.
8. Bergamot essential oil
Not only does this essential oil have a delightful citrus scent, it has many antibacterial properties. It has been used by Italians for many medicinal reasons, including removing intestinal worms, healing scars and reducing headaches.
Endocarditis, meningitis, and urinary tract infections are some of the many different types of bacterial infections that can be fought with the use of this essential oil.
Bergamot essential oil may also help those who suffer from cold sores, mouth ulcers and herpes. If you have a urinary tract infection, rub the oil onto the abdomen and throat and put a few drops in your diffuser.
How to Choose Essential Oils
When choosing essential oils, make sure that you go for quality rather than low price. There are many low-quality oils on the market, so be sure you choose from a company you trust.
In order to maximize therapeutic benefits, look for 100% pure oils that are organic and sourced from environmentally conscious growers.
H/T: The Hearty Soul
Be sure to share this with your friends on Facebook