Many studies have been done on essential oils and in many cases, they are found to be as effective, if not more, than antibiotics.
Here are just some of the oils known to be antibacterial:
Eucalyptus: Eucalyptus oil expedites the healing process of wounds, while protecting it from exposure to air and offers antimicrobial activity.
Peppermint: Peppermint is widely used in many dental product because of its antibacterial activity and antiviral properties.
Lavender: Lavender’s antibacterial and antiseptic properties make this essential oil effective for treating various skin conditions like acne, psoriasis, and other inflammatory skin conditions. It also helps to speed the healing of wounds, cuts, burns, and sunburns while preventing the formation of scar tissue.
Lemon Grass: The antimicrobial properties of lemon grass inhibit the growth of bacteria both internally and externally. It is helpful for bacterial infections including urinary tract infections, malaria, typhoid, as well as food poisoning, body odor, and other bacterial skin conditions.
Oregano: This essential oil is known to protect against many strains of bacteria like E. coli, staphylococcus, and salmonella.
Thyme: Thyme essential oil is known to be effective against a host of bacteria including MRSA and Staph (staphylococcus).
Tee Tree Oil: This essential oil is one of the few antibacterial, antiviral, and antimicrobial oils you can apply directly to your skin without first diluting it with a carrier oil.
Bergamot: Italians recognized bergamot essential oil for having powerful antibacterial properties, using it to eliminate intestinal worms. It is also known to speed the healing of mouth ulcers, cold sores, and even herpes and help fight shingles and chicken pox.
Bottom Line
Often essential oils are used in combination with other oils to make a specific treatment. For instance, a 2011 study found that a combination of oregano, cinnamon, and chili peppers essential oils can make most poultry resistant to infections without the need of drugs.
When using essential oils, it’s often required to use a carrier oil such a jojoba or coconut oil because they are very potent. You should also never take them internally without the supervision of a naturopath.
When in doubt, consult an aromatherapist who can provide you with more information and exact oils for your specific condition.