Sanitizing with essential oils

I wanted to take a few moments to talk about the subject of the moment, this virus that causes an exceptional situation for all.

With this situation also comes exceptional measures which are recommended by our governments in collaboration with public health officials. To this day, we’ve all heard recommendations in relation to washing hands with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Washing our hands is one of the actions that can stop the spread of germs, bacteria or viruses found on them.

In an alcohol-based product, the active ingredient is… alcohol! It disinfects and destroys germs and bacteria found on our hands. There is however an aspect that is unpleasant to many, the fact that these products tend to dry out the skin. Certain essential oils can play an antibacterial role without drying out the skin!

My routine

Personally*, as a preventative measure, I use certain essential oils in a base of water, hydrosol and aloe. The essential oils that I favour are those with antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and antiseptic properties.

In addition, to keep a healthy immune system, I also turn to essential oils as many are known for their antiviral and antibacterial properties that can help support and reinforce the immune system. As a means of prevention, I use a blend of ravintsara, black spruce and ho wood essential oil.I choose ravintsara for its exceptional antiviral properties and Black spruce for its stimulating properties. It is also cortisone-like and supports the adrenal glands. Ho wood, on the other hand, helps calm and soothe me and is well known for its calming properties. Using a calming essential oil is especially beneficial if you are feeling anxious about the current situation.

In addition to Ravintsara, there are many other essential oils that you can use that hold antiviral and tonifying properties such as Niaouli, bay laurel, eucalyptus radiata, peppermint, some lavender, scotch pine (Pinus sylvestris), and balsam fir essential oils.

Using essential oils daily

You can use them for massaging the thorax with the following recipe:

• Add a total of 40 drops of essential oils in 30 ml of vegetable oil of your choosing (i.e.: grapeseed oil, argan oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil) or a neutral massage oil that does not contain essential oils or fragrances. If you want to use a Vivia essential oil blend for this recipe, I recommend our Cold & Flu Protection Formula or our Pure Air Formula.
• Massage the mixture on the front and back of your thorax at the level of your lungs if possible, and your throat.

Personally, I do this once or twice per day (in the morning and the evening) on alternating days or when I feel like my throat is scratchy.*

You can also make your own hand disinfectant at home using the essential oils mentioned above. I wish you all to stay in good health and to follow the recommendations of Canadian health authorities concerning preventative measures.

Take care of yourself, and I especially wish you health,

Marie

*This is my routine, I'm not saying you have to necessarily do the same.

The essential oils listed here are recommended for children 3 years and older. Out of caution, pregnant women should not take essential oils in the first three months of pregnancy and then on the advice of an aromatherapy professional. The information given here does not constitute medical advice. If necessary, please see a doctor for a diagnosis.