When you think of essential oils, you might immediately start picturing aromatherapy and a fancy massage at a spa somewhere. While they work great for spa treatments, that’s not all essential oils are good for. Many offer unique healing powers thanks to their strong antibacterial properties.

Antibiotics and other types of medicine can leave you with dangerous unwanted side effects. Essential oils can be used as a natural remedy to fight bacteria and fungi, kill viruses and prevent infections. TheirĀ natural ability to soothe and heal can come in handy when you’re feeling under the weather.

Here are seven essential oils that can kill off bacteria:

1. Oregano Essential Oil

You may have used oregano to add some flavor to your food while cooking. It also offers potent antibiotics effects for your body. Oregano essential oil is able to kill harmful bacteria and control staph infections. It provides antiseptic, antiviral, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.

2. Tea Tree Essential Oil

Tea tree essential oil is an antiviral, antibacterial and an antimicrobial. I’s known for its ability to treat skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and acne It can even help get rid of warts. Thanks to its antifungal and antibacterial properties, tea tree oil is a natural healing remedy.

3. Cinnamon Essential Oil

Cinnamon essential oil is considered one of the strongest antibacterial essential oils. When tested against several strains of bacteria, it was found to be more powerful than other essential oils.Ā It has powerful antioxidant and antibacterial properties that can help the body fight off harmful bacteria naturally and effectively.

4. Clove Essential Oil

Clove essential oil is a powerful antibacterial. It can be used to treat skin conditions caused by bacteria, such as acne. It can also be used to prevent infections and fight harmful strains of bacteria like candida.

5. Grapefruit Essential Oil

Grapefruit essential oil has strong antibiotic properties. It’s a powerful natural remedy for common infections. Studies have shown that grapefruit essential oil is effective against many strains of bacteria, including Staph. It’s also a great acne remedy.

6. Lemongrass Essential Oil

Lemongrass essential oil is known as one of the most potent antibacterial essential oils. It has the ability to inhibit bacteria growth both externally and internally. If your’re battling bacterial infections, skin conditions or even body odor, lemongrass essential oil can help.

7. Bergamot Essential Oil

Bergamot essential oil boasts powerful antibacterial properties with its citrus scent. It can be used to heal scars and relieve headache pain. It can also help reduce muscle tension. Bergamot essential oil is known to help fight off certain types of bacteria to get rid of dangerous infections. It can be used to help heal cold sores, mouth ulcers and even urinary tract infections.

Sources:
Organic Facts
The Hearty Soul
NCBI
Wiley Online Library
Dr. Axe
Organic Facts
Keeper of the Home
Organic Facts