Essential Oil = Antiseptic
The antibacterial 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 does not grow, the stronger the action of that particular essential oil inhibiting that particular strain of microbe. French scientist Dr. Paul Belaiche popularized this test, known as an aromatogram. Through extensive research, Dr. Belaiche found which oil combinations would work best against many types of infection. Many studies have shown that carvacrol, the primary molecule found in oil of oregano, has exceptionally strong antimicrobial activity. It turns out that nature has been doing a remarkable job of therapeutic blending. For example, tea tree in the forest of Tasmania defends itself against an army of various microorganisms. Oregano in the rolling hills of Tunisia is also growing in an unforgiving environment, with its own indigenous microbes. Oregano and thyme may be the best solution for a case of stubborn nail fungus, yet these oils are far too strong alone or for use on soft tissue of any kind except in diluted blends. Formulas and methods of application Tea Tree is known for its protective properties against infections, and may be hands-down the most used antiseptic essential oil. It helps with general skin infections, and will speed up the healing process. The antifungal properties of this oil work wonders to fight athlete’s foot and nail fungus. It is well documented that tea tree leaves have been used for centuries to heal wounds and with ten times the antiseptic power of phenol (a benchmark chemical used in studying antimicrobial action). Lavender often called the “medicine chest in a bottle” is the most versatile oil in use today; a known antiseptic, and antilytic, lavender is helpful when used on scrapes and wounds because of its antiseptic properties. Lavender disperses heat and inflammation and brings relief from pain, spasms, and general unrest. Eucalyptus is called “Nature’s Cure-All.” The tall, water-loving eucalyptus tree is one of the most useful trees in the world. Native to Australia, it is regarded as a ‘cure-all’ by indigenous Aborigines and it is also used in malaria-infested areas to purify the soil and air. In the early 1850s, the German botanist and explorer, Baron Ferdinand von Muller, suggested that the fragrance of the trees might prove antiseptic. Then in 1855, the French government sent seeds to Algeria to grow eucalyptus and consequently many disease-ridden areas were converted to healthy dry ones. Tip: Want to purify the air you breathe? Eucalyptus oil purifies your environment. In a diffuser it will kill germs in the air and reduce the number of airborne bacteria. Geranium with a softer aroma and gentle effect on skin, is the choice for frequent use. An antiseptic, astringent, and general tonic, geranium is traditionally indicated as a remedy [...]