Home, naturally

With the flu going around, we try to stay away from germs. We wash our hands frequently. That’s a good thing.

What’s not a good thing is to overuse antibacterial soaps. Most of these soaps (or cleaners) contain Triclosan and Triclocarban which are dangerous to your health and contribute to antibacterial resistance.

A natural alternative is Thieves oil. This oil is a powerful blend of essential oils that help keep germs and viruses away. According to the legend, four thieves used this oil during the 15^th-century plague to protect themselves while robbing victims of the plague.

Thieves Oil Recipe

• 200 drops of Clove Oil (Syzgium aromaticum)
• 175 drops of Lemon Oil (Citrus Limon)
• 100 drops of Cinnamon Bark (Cinnamomum verum)
• 75 drops of Eucalyptus Oil (Eucalyptus radiata)
• 50 drops of Rosemary Oil (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Store in a dark glass container away from heat and sunlight. Preferably in a cool location.

You can also order thieves oil online.

For foam soap:

Mix

• ¼ cup of soap (I use pure Castile soap, but any mild soap will do – as long as you stay clear of Triclosan and Triclocarban)
• ¾ cup of distilled water
• About 10 drops of thieves oil.

Fill in foam soap bottle. Done.

(It can be difficult to find foam soap dispensers for a good price if you order only one. But since this is such a great gift, you might consider purchasing a few more and giving them to friends. I order mine here.)

For hand sanitizer:

Mix about ½ cup of distilled water with 20 drops of Thieves oil. Fill in spray bottle. Shake before use.

 Here’s to a healthy winter!