Here is a great antibacterial hand gel recipe, just in time for the germy season. Aloe vera gel is the base for this recipe. It provides a wonderful softening of hands as well.
Please keep in mind that this recipe is a natural, homemade version of hand gel using essential oils, it is NOT meant to be used as a DIY version of hand sanitizer for coronavirus. While there is a time and place for alcohol-based hand gels, in general, I prefer natural hand gels, hence this recipe.
Top 5 Antibacterial Essential Oils
Essential oils are known for their many benefits, one of which is their antibacterial properties. Here are the top 5 antibacterial essential oils that you should consider using:
1. Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender oil has a sweet, floral scent and is one of the most versatile essential oils. It can be used for a wide range of ailments, including as an antibacterial agent. People who use lavender oil have also reported that it helps to boost their mood and promote relaxation.
2. Peppermint Essential Oil
Peppermint oil has a refreshing, minty scent and can be used topically or aromatically. Peppermint oil can also help to soothe headaches and migraine pain.
3. Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Eucalyptus oil has a distinct, woody scent and is frequently used in air fresheners and other household products. In addition to its antibacterial properties, eucalyptus oil can also help to relieve congestion and sinus pressure.
4. Rosemary Essential Oil
Rosemary oil has a earthy, herbaceous scent and is often used in cooking. It can also be used as an antibacterial agent. Some people also find that rosemary oil helps to improve cognitive function and memory.
5. Lemon Essential Oil
Lemon oil has a refreshing citrus scent and makes an excellent household cleaner due to its antibacterial properties. In addition to its cleaning power, lemon oil can also help to boost your mood and energy levels.
Aloe Vera Gel for DIY Recipe
Aloe vera gel can be used as a carrier even though it is not butter or oil. Don't let the term "gel" fool you, this is a liquid gel (unlike a thick and sticky hair gel). It is silky and lightweight. It also absorbs through the skin quickly.
Don't buy the "jelly" version of aloe vera, it is too thick for this recipe. Here is my favorite brand of aloe vera gel I like to use for this recipe.
DIY Antibacterial Hand Gel
Put this hand gel in your office, workspace, or classroom. Squirt on as needed and rub into your hand. One squirt is all you need.
This recipe only takes a few ingredients and little time to make. It is alcohol-free too!
Lavender and tea tree essential oils are the stars in this homemade hand sanitizer gel. Both are well known for their antibacterial properties. A perfectly natural way to destroy unwanted bacteria.
How to Make Essential Oil Hand Gel
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Aloe Vera Gel
- 24 drops of Tea Tree Essential Oil
- 24 drops of Lavender Essential Oil
- 8 oz Glass Pump Bottle
Directions:
Step 1: Using a funnel, add aloe vera into the glass bottle.
Step 2: Add drops of essential oil to the glass bottle and shake to blend together. Label your hand gel. Be sure to shake well before using.
To Use: Place a squirt into the palm of your hands and rub hand together until hands are covered, allow to dry. Recipe at 1% dilution.
Essential Oil Recipe Tips
- When buying aloe vera gel it is best to look for a natural and pure gel, look at ingredients and see what it is made of. Learn more: Aloe Vera gel | Globo Surf.
- It is best to make a fresh bottle of this alcohol-free hand cleanser every few weeks. There are no preservatives in this recipe and aloe vera gel is a water-based ingredient.
- When using essential oils on the skin, be sure to use only high quality, pure essential oils.
- Lavender and tea tree essential oils are an excellent choice for this recipe, you could change up the essential oils to make different blends for your hand gel. If your favorite oil company has a disinfectant blend, you could use 48 drops of that essential oil blend instead of lavender and tea tree.
Final Thoughts on Antibacterial Essential Oils
There are many essential oils that have powerful antibacterial properties. In this blog post, we have listed the top 5 antibacterial essential oils that you should consider using. These essential oils can help you ward off infection while also providing other benefits such as boosting your mood or promoting relaxation.