Essential Oils Kill Bacteria in

the Cells Naturally

Can essential oils kill bacteria naturally? The problem
of antibiotic resistance is growing - especially the
problem of resistant bacteria in hospitals. Now a new study from Greece shows that
some essential oils kill bacteria naturally - even bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics.
This is encouraging news since using these oils could reduce the need for antibiotics -
and help lower the number of antibiotic resistant bacteria that are causing so many
problems for humans.

What are Essential Oils?

Essentials oils are oily liquids that are either distilled or pressed
from the stems and leaves of plants. They're very concentrated and
need to be blended with a carrier oil before they can be safely
applied to the skin. They've been used medicinally throughout
history to treat various ailments and are now used in the practice of
aromatherapy - as a form of alternative therapy to treat conditions
ranging from anxiety to obesity. Their benefits come from the
terpenes, phenols, aldehydes, ketones, alcohols, and other plant-
derived chemicals they contain.

Essential Oils Kill Bacteria Naturally?

Greek researchers at the Technological Educational Institute in
Greece, looked at the anti-bacterial potential of eight different plant-
based essential oils. The big winners when it came to killing bacteria were thyme,
Oregano and cinnamon essential oils. These oils were even effective against methicillin
resistant Staph bacteria, also known as MRSA, which is responsible for so many drug
resistant bacterial infections in hospitals. Of the two, thyme essential oil was most
effective since it was able to destroy bacteria in under an hour. Other essential oils
tested that effectively kill bacteria are peppermint and basil essential oils.

Why Aren't Essential Oils More Commonly Used to Kill Bacteria?

Research into the effects of using essential oils to kill bacteria is slow. Since they can't
be patented, there aren't any drug companies to sponsor the research. Slowly, more
studies are being done that confirm their ability to kill bacterial naturally. Other studies
show that geranium, clove, lemon, lime, orange, rosemary oil, and, possibly eucalyptus
oil also have antibacterial activity. Researchers are hoping that these essentials oils can
eventually replace some of the synthetic preservatives that are currently added to foods
- providing a safer, natural, and healthier alternative.
References:

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/184025.php
http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6882/6/39