Tea Oil & Lavender Oil For Infection

Tea tree and lavender oils are two essential oils known for their antibacterial, antiviral and antiseptic properties. Nerys Purchon, in her book "The Essential Natural Health Bible," says tea tree oil is the second best antiseptic oil after thyme. Lavender is a very versatile oil, used for numerous purposes from calming to cleaning. These are two essential oils thought to fight infection, although you should see your doctor if you think you have an infection. Consult a certified aromatherapist for the best method to use essential oils.

Benefits

A 2009 study by M.H. Lodhia and colleagues in "Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences" found that lavender was effective against certain types of bacteria used in the study, but not all. Two types of infections it is used for are vaginal and sinus infections. In a 2006 article in "Clinical Microbiology Reviews," C.F. Carson and colleagues explain that science backs up claims that tea tree oil has antimicrobial qualities. However, the research notes that while tea tree seems promising, large randomized clinical trials are needed in order to include tea tree oil as an anti-bacterial treatment in the conventional health field.

Considerations

Essential oils might even be effective against antibiotic-resistant bacteria strains such as MRSA. A 2009 study by P.H. Warnke and colleagues in "Journal of Cranio-Maxillo-Facial Surgery" discovered that tea tree oil and lavender oils, as well as numerous other essential oils, inhibited resistant strains. The researchers noted that essential oils could be an inexpensive treatment for antibiotic-resistant bacteria after more research.

Application

Although tea tree oil should be diluted, you can apply lavender directly to your skin without diluting it, according to Charla Devereux in her book "The Aromatherapy Kit." For either oil, put 40 to 60 drops drops in 3.5 oz of a carrier oil such as grapeseed oil and apply the mixture to your skin. You can also add a few drops to a diffuser, your bath or to water for an air spray to breathe the oils in for a respiratory infection.

Warning

Essential oils can cause skin irritation and allergies. Perform a spot test on your skin to see if you have an allergy before using essential oils on a large area of skin. Specifically, tea tree oil has been associated with skin irritation when applied topically, especially when used in large doses. Consult a certified aromatherapist for the proper use of essential oils.