There is a lot of debate over whether or not diffusing essential oils kills germs in the air. Some people believe that the essential oils are powerful enough to kill any bacteria or virus in the air, while others claim that the essential oils simply mask the smell of bad bacteria and do not actually kill anything. To date, there has been no scientific evidence to support either claim.
No one can deny the refreshing and energizing effects of essential oils. Not only do they smell great, but they also seem to have a range of benefits for physical and emotional health. But do these oils also have antimicrobial properties? Anecdotal evidence suggests that diffusing essential oils to kill germs in the air is effective, but does scientific evidence support this claim?
Does Diffusing Essential Oils Kill Germs in the Air?
There is some research that suggests an essential oil diffuser can help kill germs in the air. One study found that diffusing tea tree oil for two hours reduced the number of airborne bacteria by more than 60 percent. Another study found that diffusing lavender oil for two hours reduced the number of airborne bacteria by more than 90 percent. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Thieves oil is a blend of essential oils that has been used for centuries to help prevent the spread of disease. It was used by plague doctors who believed the plague was spread by ‘bad air’. The essential oils in the blend have potent antibacterial, antiviral properties, which make it a powerful tool for warding off infection. Recent studies have confirmed the efficacy of Thieves oil, and shown that it can be effective in preventing the spread of both respiratory and gastrointestinal infections.
While the effects of diffusing essential oils is debated there have been many studies done on the effectiveness of essential oils upon contact with a range of bacteria, germs, fungus, and viruses. One study found that essential oils were able to kill 100% of MRSA bacteria in just five minutes.
How to Kill Germs with Essential Oils
Germs are tiny organisms that can cause infection and disease. They can be found everywhere, from the air we breathe to the food we eat. Some germs are harmless, but others can make us sick.
There are many ways to protect ourselves from germs, including washing our hands regularly, using hand sanitizer, and avoiding close contact with sick people.
Essential oils get to work on germs by disrupting the cell membrane or the enzyme system of the microorganism. Essential oils contain compounds that have antibacterial properties and are able to kill germs on contact. In addition, some oils have antimicrobial effects against fungus as well.
What Are the Best Essential Oils for Killing Germs?
There are a number of essential oils that have been shown to be effective at killing germs. Some of the most popular oils for this purpose include tea tree oil, clove oil, and lemon essential oil. These oils can be used in a variety of ways, including diffusing them, applying them topically mixed with a carrier oil, or ingesting them. Below are some germ killing essential oils to diffuse.
Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil is a natural antiseptic and can kill germs. It is most effective against gram-positive bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus. However, it is not as effective against gram-negative bacteria, such as Escherichia coli.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is effective at killing bacteria and other germs. It is a natural antiseptic and can be used to disinfect wounds, cuts, and scrapes. Tea tree oil can also be used to treat acne, psoriasis, and other skin conditions. It is also good for inhibiting mild growth.
Clove Oil
Clove is a powerful essential oil that has been used for centuries for its disinfecting properties. Clove oil is a natural antiseptic and has been shown to be effective against a variety of germs, including E. coli, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus aureus. It can be used to disinfect surfaces or to treat infections.
Pine
Pine essential oil has antibacterial properties and can be effective in killing germs. However, it is not as effective as some other essential oils, such as tea tree oil.
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil is a natural antiseptic, antibacterial, and antiviral agent. It is effective against a variety of bacterial strains, including E. coli, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus aureus. It is effective against a variety of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Additionally, peppermint oil is a powerful decongestant and can be used to relieve respiratory congestion and other cold and flu symptoms.
Lavender
Lavender oil has been shown to be effective against some bacteria and viruses. It is not, however, a cure-all and should not be used as a substitute for standard hygiene practices.
Lemon
Lemon essential oil has been shown to be effective against some bacteria and viruses such as “Staphylococcus aureus”, “Streptococcus pneumoniae”, and “Chlamydia trachomatis”.
Oregano
Oregano essential oil has potent antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. It can be used to disinfect surfaces and to kill germs.
Thieves Essential Oils Blend
Thieves oil is a popular essential oil blend that is said to help protect against seasonal illnesses and boost the immune system. The recipe for thieves oil is a combination of clove, cinnamon, eucalyptus, lemon, and rosemary essential oils. Each of these oils has been traditionally used to help ward off sickness and support the immune system.
To make thieves oil, you will need:
• 30 drops clove essential oil
• 20 drops cinnamon essential oil
• 10 drops eucalyptus essential oil
• 5 drops lemon essential oil
• 5 drops rosemary essential oil
1) Combine all of the ingredients in a amber glass bottle or dropper bottle.
2) Shake well to combine.
3) To use, diffuse 2-4 drops in your diffuser or apply topically to your chest and throat.
The Benefits of Diffusing Essential Oils
An essential oil diffuser helps distribute essential oils by breaking the essential oils down into very small particles and then dispersing them into the air. This allows the essential oils to be absorbed by the lungs and circulated throughout the body.
Essential oils offer a variety of benefits when inhaled. When pure essential oils are inhaled, the tiny oil molecules travel through the nasal passages and into the lungs, where they are then absorbed into the bloodstream. From there, they are able to circulate throughout the body and provide therapeutic benefits.
An oil diffuser can be beneficial for a variety of reasons. For example, when you are feeling congested, diffusing peppermint or eucalyptus oil can help to clear your airways and improve your breathing. If you are struggling with a headache, inhaling lavender oil may help to provide relief. Additionally, inhaling essential oils can be helpful for relaxation and stress relief.
There are many different ways to use essential oils. You can diffuse them for aromatherapy or dilute them in a carrier oil and apply topically.
A Few essential oil Blends for Cleaning the Air
When it comes to cleaning the air in your home, there are a few essential oil blends that can work together to create a powerful effect. Here are three of our favorites:
1. Tea tree oil, lemon, and eucalyptus oil are ideal for a general purpose germ killing diffuser blend.
2. Lemon essential oil, lavender, and peppermint oil all work together to create a refreshing and cleansing scent that can help improve air quality.
3. Eucalyptus, rosemary, and lemon oil are perfect for clearing the air and combating respiratory problems.
Antiviral Essential Oils
Essential Oils are always handy to have on hand during cold and flu season. Diffusing essential oils will not stop the spread of viruses or other airborne illnesses. They work best against these agents when used as surface cleaners or hand cleansers where direct contact is achieved with the pathogens.
One of the ways antiviral essential oils kill viruses and inhibit antiviral activity is by increasing the body’s production of interferon. Interferon is a protein that helps cells defend themselves against viral infections. Antiviral essential oils also enhance the activity of other cells that fight infection, including natural killer cells and macrophages. Additionally, some antiviral essential oils, such as oregano oil, have been shown to directly kill viruses upon contact.
Some of the most common antiviral essential oils include oregano oil, thyme oil, lavender oil, and eucalyptus oil. Each of these oils has unique properties that make them effective against different types of viruses. For example, oregano oil is a powerful antiseptic that is effective against both bacterial and viral agents. Thyme oil is a natural disinfectant that helps destroy harmful bacteria and viruses. Lavender oil is a calming and relaxing essential oil that helps boost the immune system. And eucalyptus oil is a natural decongestant and expectorant that helps clear the airways and lungs of congestion caused by viruses.
Room Sprays to kill germs
Room sprays are a great alternative if you don’t have a diffuser. You can also include other ingredients to enhance the germ fighting effects of the oils such as vodka or witch hazel. Here are a few recipes for disinfecting room sprays that you can make with essential oils.
Here are a few recipes for clove-based room sprays that you can make yourself:
1. In a 8 oz. spray bottle, combine 1 oz. of vodka, 3 drops of clove oil, and 10 drops of lemon oil. Shake well to combine and mist the air in your home as needed.
2. To make a more potent disinfectant spray, combine 1 cup of distilled water, 2 tablespoons of witch hazel, 20 drops of clove oil, and 20 drops of lemon oil in a 16 oz. spray bottle. Shake well to combine and mist the air in your home as needed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there is some research that suggests diffusing essential oils can help kill germs in the air. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings. If you are looking for a natural way to disinfect your home, diffusing essential oils may be a good option for you.