disclaimer: this is not meant to be medical advice, I'm not a medical professional. please note that some essential oils are very potent annd can cause skin reactions, practice caution when using.
I've been making my own cleaning spray for a few years now. After learning about all the harmful chemicals that are in conventional cleaners, it was a no brainer for me. YIKES...I mean have y'all ever actually looked up the ingredients. LOADS of cancer causing chemicals. They do a great job of killing everything, good and bad. I wanted something that could be used around my kiddos without worrying about the toxins and long term health risks, especially with me already having autoimmune issues.
I thought this post would be especially helpful in the current times we're living in. I don't know about you, but where I live the store shelves are wiped clean. If you can't find alcohol in your area (I ran into this problem) you can always use vodka, which seems to still be readily available.
What I love so much about this recipe, is that it's SO easy to make and takes hardly any time at all. Not to mention, how much money you save making your own.
I chatted with my friend and essential oil expert, Karen, about which oils have the best antiviral/antibacterial properties. Karen and her husband, Erin, have been with dōTerra for seven years. She originally got into oils when looking for a more natural way to manage her pain. She soon realized the amazing immunity boosting properties with her boys, who were constantly sick. The rest is history, and I've learned so much from her over the years. In many ways, she is the one who sent me down my holistic path.
Here's her list:
- melissa | this is a great antiviral oil. Super rare and pricey but also a great oil to have on hand!
- OnGuard | a powerful blend that is known for its protective properties. it helps support immune function and is a great non-toxic cleaner. In a lab study it's shown to act as a powerful antiviral, specifically against influenza. BONUS: it can be very uplifting when diffused!
- tea tree | tea tree is an awesome antiviral oil, great for purifying surfaces and the air. This oil has been used for centuries by the Aboriginal people in Australia.
- manuka | traditionally used by the Maori people of New Zealand, this oil is a great antiviral. It works as a great house hold cleaner.
- rose | one of the most powerful of the antiviral oils out there. It also has a light and flowery smell which I love!
- purify | just as its name suggests, it's great for cleansing the air and removing odors. This blend also helps protect against environmental toxins in a safe and effective way.
- oregano | a powerful and potent antibacterial oil, it's also great to help boost immunity.
- eucalyptus | personally one of my favorite scents! It's also great for cleansing surfaces and the air.
- lemon | great for cleansing surfaces and the air! Provides a healthy and refreshing boost to your home. One of my favorite and most versatile oils.
- bergamot | this oil has both a calming and uplifting effect. It's great for mood boosting when diffused! It also works great as a cleanser to help purify your surroundings.
- cinnamon | another one of my favorite fall scents, this oil helps support a healthy immune system and metabolic function. It also acts as an antiviral.
- thyme | another powerful antiviral oil, it works great to help strengthen the immune system.
For more info on essential oils, head to Karen's blog: The Apple Trail Farm. She's super knowledgeable and is the reason why I use them everyday! She also has some super yummy recipes like this popcorn! Also, check out this AWESOME essential oil display she had made in her hallway! I'm definitely stealing this idea when it comes time for us to build our home.
What You'll Need:
- amber glass bottle (I use these from Amazon)
- bottle labels
- white vinegar
- isopropyl alcohol OR vodka (CDC recommends using a solution that is at least 70% alcohol)
- water
- essential oils
Directions:
- Pour 1 cup alcohol, ½ cup vinegar and ½ cup water into glass bottle. Add 30-40 drops of essential oils and shake. Slap your label on and voilà! You're done!
Hope this helps and I would love to see your finished products! What are some of your favorite at home cleaning recipes?
