Homemade Herbal Antibacterial Spray

New research is proving that the old folk recipes using herbs and essential oils to kill germs, such as those used by 14th century doctors during the Black Plague, were based on good science. Many essential oils, such as the oils of lavender and thyme, are more antiseptic than phenol, the industry standard. Research is also showing that antibacterial plant oils may not cause drug resistance as could be the case with common chemical disinfectants.

The essential oil-based spray below, leaves a lovely, clean scent. It is a good choice to use for misting your cutting board after use.

Lightly Lavender Antibacterial Spray

1 cup water
20 drops pure essential oil of lavender

Pour the water into a spray bottle. Add the lavender essential oil and shake to blend. Spray on the surface and let set for at least 15 minutes, or don’t rinse at all.

Makes: 1 cup spray

Shelf life: Indefinite

Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may not reflect those of
Care2, Inc., its employees or advertisers.

Duane B.

7:10AM PDT on May 10, 2013

Thank you for sharing.

May 10
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Sue H.

12:04PM PST on Mar 9, 2013

love great non-toxic ideas, thank you!

March 9
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Donna H.

7:32AM PDT on Jul 10, 2012

Thanks for the info.

July 10
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Danuta W.

12:37AM PST on Mar 11, 2012

Thanks for the information

March 11
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jennifer c.

11:32PM PST on Dec 6, 2011

i am going to buy some essential oils to clean and disinfect my house

December 6
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Cathy N.

11:31PM PDT on Nov 2, 2011

~Nice idea!~

November 2
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Marika W.

5:37PM PDT on Sep 23, 2011

Thanks for this article. I had already made my own lavender spray and didn't realize the antibacterial properties it has. I love it and spray it all over! I especially love to spray it on my pillow right before bed. It's very relaxing.