Several essential oils have demonstrated effective antimicrobial properties against bacteria, fungi, and some viruses. Here are some of the most effective ones:

1. Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca alternifolia)

Active Components: Terpinen-4-ol, α-terpineol

Activity: Effective against Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, Candida albicans, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Uses: Skin infections, acne, fungal infections, and minor wounds.

2. Oregano Oil (Origanum vulgare)

Active Components: Carvacrol, thymol

Activity: Potent against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, Helicobacter pylori, and fungi.

Uses: Treating bacterial infections, food preservation, and respiratory infections.

3. Thyme Oil (Thymus vulgaris)

Active Components: Thymol, carvacrol

Activity: Broad-spectrum activity against bacteria, including MRSA, and antifungal properties.

Uses: Respiratory conditions, oral care, and foodborne infections.

4. Eucalyptus Oil (Eucalyptus globulus)

Active Components: 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol)

Activity: Antibacterial and antiviral activity, especially against respiratory pathogens.

Uses: Cough, cold, and respiratory tract infections.

5. Clove Oil (Syzygium aromaticum)

Active Components: Eugenol

Activity: Effective against E. coli, Candida albicans, and oral pathogens.

Uses: Dental care, fungal infections, and pain relief.

6. Lemongrass Oil (Cymbopogon citratus)

Active Components: Citral, geraniol

Activity: Antifungal and antibacterial, particularly against Aspergillus and Staphylococcus aureus.

Uses: Skin infections, air disinfection, and deodorization.

7. Cinnamon Oil (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)

Active Components: Cinnamaldehyde, eugenol

Activity: Strong antibacterial and antifungal activity, especially against E. coli and Candida.

Uses: Oral infections, food preservation, and fungal infections.

8. Peppermint Oil (Mentha piperita)

Active Components: Menthol, menthone

Activity: Antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal.

Uses: Respiratory infections, digestive issues, and skin conditions.

9. Lavender Oil (Lavandula angustifolia)

Active Components: Linalool, linalyl acetate

Activity: Mild antimicrobial properties, effective against Candida albicans and some bacteria.

Uses: Wound healing, burns, and skin infections.

10. Rosemary Oil (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Active Components: 1,8-cineole, camphor

Activity: Antimicrobial against bacteria and fungi.

Uses: Scalp infections, skin health, and respiratory issues.

Usage Tips

Essential oils should be diluted in a carrier oil (e.g., coconut oil) before application to avoid skin irritation.

Some oils may be toxic if ingested or used inappropriately, so always consult a healthcare professional for internal use.

Lab data showing effects are common but mean little in any applied context.

I am very sorry that I discovered herbal oils very late. Original oils are really very effective. For example, in oral hygiene, tea tree, clove or thyme oil dropped into water to wash the throat and teeth is relaxing. But the dosage is important. You have to use it diluted, they are really very caustic. There is udi hindu oil, for example, I found it very effective for itching. Castor, almond oil and rose oils can be used undiluted, udi hindu is the same, they are not sharp and caustic. There is St. John's wort oil, for example, which heals wounds, and it is more effective when ozonated and can be used undiluted.

The experience has shown that coconut oil has anti-fungal properties, and can be used in treating mild to moderate ringworm.