10 best herbal essential oils for infection

Herbal essential oils for infection are a natural remedy used to combat bacterial, viral, or fungal infections.

These oils contain active compounds that have antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties, making them effective in reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and promoting healing. Examples of herbal essential oils for infection include tea tree oil, which has been shown to be effective against MRSA and other antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and eucalyptus oil, which helps to reduce congestion and ease sinus pressure.

By using these oils topically or aromatically, individuals can naturally manage infections and improve their overall health and wellbeing.

The following article describes in detail the most important essential oils for infection, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Melaleuca alternifolia

Tea tree essential oils helps with infection because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which make it effective against a wide range of bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

The oil's active compound, terpinen-4-ol, has been shown to disrupt the cell membranes of microorganisms, ultimately leading to their destruction. This natural antibacterial and antifungal action helps to combat infections, promoting wound healing, reducing inflammation, and preventing further infection.

As a result, tea tree essential oils are often used topically to treat minor cuts, scrapes, and burns, as well as more serious skin infections.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in tea tree essential oils that aid with infection.

• Antibacterial: TTO's antibacterial properties help combat bacterial infections by inhibiting the growth and replication of bacteria, reducing the severity of symptoms and promoting healing.
• Anti-inflammatory: TTO's anti-inflammatory properties reduce inflammation, which is a natural response to infection, and alleviate discomfort, swelling, and pain associated with infected areas.
• Antifungal: TTO's antifungal properties help combat fungal infections by inhibiting the growth of fungi, preventing the spread of infection, and promoting healthy tissue.

The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make essential oils for infection.

• Leaves: Rich in cineole, a compound with potent antimicrobial and antifungal properties, making it effective against a range of infections.
• Buds: Containing high concentrations of terpinen-4-ol, a compound known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities, helping to combat infection and reduce inflammation.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for infection.

1. Harvest fresh melaleuca alternifolia leaves from the wild or cultivated fields weighing approximately one kilogram.
2. Wash the harvested leaves gently with cold running water and mild soap to remove dirt and debris.
3. Steam distill the washed leaves in a still for 3 hours using 500 milliliters of distilled water to produce 100 milliliters of essential oil.
4. Filter the resulting oil through a coffee filter paper to remove any impurities and sediment particles.
5. Store the filtered oil in dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids at room temperature away from direct sunlight for up to six months.

2. Eucalyptus globulus

Tasmanian blue gum essential oils helps with infection because of its antimicrobial properties, which inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, and viruses.

The oil's bioactive compounds, including terpinen-4-ol and α-pinene, have been shown to exhibit potent antibacterial activity against a range of pathogens, making it an effective natural remedy for wound care, skin infections, and respiratory tract infections.

Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort associated with infected areas, promoting faster healing and recovery.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in tasmanian blue gum essential oils that aid with infection.

• Antibacterial properties: Eucalyptus essential oil has antibacterial properties that help to inhibit the growth of bacteria, making it effective in treating infections such as skin infections and respiratory tract infections.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Eucalyptus essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling and pain, which can be beneficial in reducing the severity of infections and promoting healing.
• Decongestant properties: Eucalyptus essential oil has decongestant properties that help to relieve respiratory congestion and reduce mucus production, making it effective in treating colds, bronchitis, and other respiratory infections.

The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make essential oils for infection.

• Roots: Rich in bioactive compounds, roots are excellent for creating antimicrobial essential oils that combat infections and promote wound healing.
• Barks: The outer layer of barks contains phenolic compounds that inhibit microbial growth, making them ideal for creating essential oils with antiseptic properties.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for infection.

1. Harvest fresh eucalyptus globulus leaves in the morning when they are at their peak potency and quality.
2. Dry the harvested leaves using a food dehydrator set at 55°f for 24 hours or air dry them for several days.
3. Steam distill the dried leaves using a steam distillation apparatus with 50ml of water to produce 20ml of oil over 2 hours.
4. Filter the resulting essential oil through a coffee filter paper to remove any impurities and debris.
5. Store the filtered essential oil in dark glass bottles sealed tightly and kept in a cool place for up to 12 months.

3. Thymus vulgaris

Thyme essential oils helps with infection because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which target a wide range of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

The oil's active compounds, including thymol and carvacrol, work to disrupt the cell membranes of these pathogens, ultimately leading to their destruction. Additionally, thyme essential oil has been shown to boost the immune system, enhancing its natural defenses against infection.

This makes it a valuable natural remedy for treating and preventing infections, particularly those caused by resistant bacteria.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in thyme essential oils that aid with infection.

• Antimicrobial activity: Thyme essential oil has been shown to exhibit antimicrobial properties, which helps to inhibit the growth and reproduction of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, reducing the risk of infection.
• Antioxidant activity: Thyme essential oil's antioxidant properties help to neutralize free radicals, which can damage cells and contribute to inflammation, infection, and disease progression.
• Inflammation reduction: Thyme essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling, redness, and pain associated with infections, promoting a faster recovery.

The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make essential oils for infection.

• Roots: Thyme roots contain compounds like thymol and carvacrol, which have antibacterial properties that can help combat infections.
• Buds: Thyme buds are rich in essential oils, including camphor, borneol, and linalool, which work together to reduce inflammation and fight off infection-causing bacteria.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for infection.

1. Harvest fresh thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers in the early morning after the dew has dried off.
2. Clean and dry the plant material by gently brushing off any dirt or debris using a soft-bristled brush.
3. Steam distill the plant material at 100°c for 4 hours to release the essential oil from the leaf cells.
4. Collect the essential oil as it condenses into a small container cooled by a condenser coil within an hour.
5. Store the final thymus vulgaris essential oil in dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids and airtight caps for up to 2 years.

4. Lavandula angustifolia

English lavender essential oils helps with infection because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which combat a wide range of bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

The oil's active compounds, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, possess natural antibacterial and antifungal activities that help to disrupt the growth and replication of pathogenic microorganisms, ultimately reducing the severity and duration of infections.

This makes English lavender essential oils a valuable adjunctive therapy for promoting wound healing and preventing secondary infections.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in english lavender essential oils that aid with infection.

• Antimicrobial properties: English lavender essential oil exhibits antimicrobial activity, which helps to combat bacterial, fungal, and viral infections by inhibiting their growth and reducing the risk of spreading.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Lavender essential oil's anti-inflammatory properties can reduce swelling, pain, and inflammation associated with infected wounds or conditions like cellulitis, making it easier for the body to heal naturally.
• Antioxidant properties: English lavender essential oil's antioxidant properties help neutralize free radicals that can damage cells and tissues, which is particularly important during infection when the body's immune response can lead to oxidative stress.

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make essential oils for infection.

• Roots: The roots of the English lavender plant contain sesquiterpenes, which have antimicrobial properties and can help combat bacterial infections.
• Seeds: Lavender seeds are rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can aid in wound healing and infection prevention.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for infection.

1. Harvest fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers at peak blooming stage in the morning for optimal potency.
2. Dry the harvested flowers using a food dehydrator on low heat setting for 24 hours or until crispy.
3. Blend 200g of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers with 400ml of high-proof vodka in a glass jar, sealed tightly and left to steep for 4 weeks.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another container, squeezing out as much oil as possible from the solids and discarding them.
5. Transfer the resulting infused oil to a dark glass bottle with tight-fitting lid and store it in a cool place for up to 6 months before distillation or use.

5. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint essential oils helps with infection because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which allow it to effectively combat a range of microorganisms.

The oil's active compounds, including menthol and limonene, disrupt the cell membranes of bacteria and viruses, ultimately leading to their destruction. Additionally, peppermint oil's anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce swelling and ease discomfort associated with infected areas.

This natural remedy is a powerful tool for promoting recovery and preventing further infection.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in peppermint essential oils that aid with infection.

• Antimicrobial properties: Peppermint essential oil has been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, making it effective against a range of infections.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Peppermint essential oil's anti-inflammatory compounds can help reduce swelling, pain, and fever associated with infections, promoting a faster recovery.
• Antioxidant properties: Peppermint essential oil's high antioxidant content helps protect the body from oxidative stress caused by infection, reducing tissue damage and promoting overall healing.

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make essential oils for infection.

• Roots: The roots of peppermint are used to create an essential oil that has antimicrobial properties, which help combat infections by inhibiting bacterial growth.
• Barks: Peppermint barks contain compounds like menthol and menthone, which have antiseptic properties, making them effective against infections such as wounds and skin lesions.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for infection.

1. Harvest fresh peppermint leaves from your garden or purchase from a reputable supplier in large quantities.
2. Dry the fresh peppermint leaves by spreading them thinly on paper towels for at least 7-10 days.
3. Combine 100 grams of dried peppermint leaves with 500 milliliters of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil or coconut oil.
4. Heat the mixture gently using a low-wattage lamp or warm water bath for approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.
5. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discarding the solids after 24 hours of preparation time.

6. Zingiber officinale

Ginger essential oils helps with infection because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which effectively combat a range of bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

The oil's active compounds, such as gingerol and shogaol, work to disrupt the growth and reproduction of these pathogens, reducing their ability to cause illness.

Additionally, ginger essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate symptoms associated with infection, such as pain, swelling, and redness, promoting a faster recovery process.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in ginger essential oils that aid with infection.

• Antimicrobial properties: Herbal ginger essential oil has been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, making it effective against a range of microbial infections.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Ginger's anti-inflammatory compounds can help reduce swelling and pain associated with infections, such as respiratory tract infections and skin infections.
• Antioxidant properties: Herbal ginger essential oil's antioxidant activity helps neutralize free radicals that can exacerbate infections, promoting the body's natural healing process.

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make essential oils for infection.

• Roots: Rich in bioactive compounds, ginger roots have been traditionally used to treat various infections and inflammatory conditions.
• Rhyzomes: The underground stem of the ginger plant, rhyzomes contain volatile oils that exhibit antimicrobial properties, making them effective against infection-causing pathogens.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for infection.

1. Harvest fresh ginger roots of approximately 500g from a trusted source for high-quality plant material.
2. Clean the harvested ginger roots by gently scrubbing them with a vegetable brush under cold running water.
3. Dry the cleaned ginger roots in a warm and well-ventilated area at room temperature for three days.
4. Distill the dried ginger roots using a steam distillation apparatus at 100 degrees celsius for two hours.
5. Filter the resulting essential oil through cheesecloth or a coffee filter paper to remove any impurities and excess water.

7. Origanum vulgare

Wild marjoram essential oils helps with infection because of its potent antimicrobial properties.

The oil contains a high concentration of terpenes, such as borneol and bornyl acetate, which have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Additionally, wild marjoram essential oil's antiseptic and anti-inflammatory compounds help to soothe and calm the affected area, reducing swelling and promoting healthy tissue repair.

This natural synergy makes it an effective remedy for wound care and infection prevention.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in wild marjoram essential oils that aid with infection.

• Antibacterial: Wild marjoram essential oil has been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria, such as E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus, which can cause infections in the body.
• Antifungal: The essential oil's antifungal properties help combat fungal infections like candida overgrowth, athlete's foot, and ringworm by inhibiting the growth of fungi.
• Anti-inflammatory: Wild marjoram essential oil has anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce swelling, redness, and pain associated with infections, which can speed up recovery and alleviate symptoms.

The list below shows the primary parts of wild marjoram used to make essential oils for infection.

• Roots: The roots are rich in sesquiterpenes, which have antimicrobial properties that help combat infection-causing bacteria and fungi.
• Flowers: Marjoram flowers contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that exhibit anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activities, making them effective against infected tissues.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wild marjoram for infection.

1. Harvest origanum vulgare leaves at dawn, taking care not to bruise or damage the plant during collection.
2. Dry the collected leaves in a warm, well-ventilated area for 7-10 days, stirring occasionally, until crumbly dry.
3. Use a high-quality steam distiller and 200g of dried origanum vulgare leaves to produce 30ml of essential oil within 4 hours.
4. Monitor the distillation process and collect the essential oil in dark glass bottles as it separates from the water, discarding any excess water.
5. Store the freshly distilled essential oil in a cool, dark place for at least 24 hours before using, ensuring proper settling and separation of components.

8. Cinnamomum verum

Ceylon cinnamon essential oils helps with infection because of its potent antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties.

The oil's active compounds, such as cinnamaldehyde and eugenol, work to disrupt the growth of pathogens, preventing their spread and replication within the body.

Additionally, Ceylon cinnamon essential oil's natural antimicrobial properties help to stimulate the immune system, allowing it to effectively combat infections and promote a speedy recovery.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in ceylon cinnamon essential oils that aid with infection.

• Antimicrobial: Ceylon cinnamon essential oil exhibits antimicrobial properties, which inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, thereby helping to combat infections by preventing their spread.
• Anti-inflammatory: The anti-inflammatory property of Ceylon cinnamon essential oil helps to reduce swelling, redness, and pain associated with infections, making it an effective natural remedy for wound care and skin infections.
• Antioxidant: As an antioxidant, Ceylon cinnamon essential oil neutralizes free radicals that can contribute to oxidative stress and tissue damage, thereby supporting the body's natural defense mechanisms and promoting overall health during infection.

The list below shows the primary parts of ceylon cinnamon used to make essential oils for infection.

• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are good for making medicinal essential oils because they contain compounds with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help combat infection-causing bacteria and viruses.
• Barks: Barks of the Ceylon cinnamon plant have been used to make essential oils that possess antibacterial and antifungal properties, making them effective in treating skin infections and wounds.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ceylon cinnamon for infection.

1. Harvest high-quality cinnamomum verum bark in the early morning to ensure optimal oil quality and aroma retention.
2. Dry the harvested bark for 24 hours using a combination of air circulation and low-temperature drying.
3. Steam distill the dried bark for 30 minutes at 100°c to extract the essential oils from the plant material.
4. Separate the distilled essential oils from the water using a separating funnel or decantation method and collect the oil in a dark glass bottle.
5. Filter the collected essential oil through a coffee filter or cotton cloth to remove any impurities or debris and store it in an airtight container.

9. Boswellia serrata

Frankincense essential oils helps with infection because it possesses powerful antimicrobial properties that inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

The oil's main compound, boswellic acid, has been shown to exhibit potent antibacterial activity against a wide range of microorganisms, including E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Additionally, frankincense essential oils have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce swelling and ease discomfort associated with infected areas, promoting a faster healing process.

Its antiseptic properties also help prevent the spread of infection and promote wound recovery.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in frankincense essential oils that aid with infection.

• Antimicrobial: Frankincense essential oil has antimicrobial properties, which help to inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi that cause infections.
• Anti-inflammatory: Its anti-inflammatory properties reduce swelling, redness, and pain associated with infected areas, allowing for faster healing and recovery.
• Wound-healing: Frankincense essential oil promotes wound-healing by stimulating blood flow to the affected area, reducing the risk of infection and promoting healthy tissue growth.

The list below shows the primary parts of frankincense used to make essential oils for infection.

• Rhyzomes: The rhyzome is the thick, underground stem of the frankincense plant, which contains a high concentration of resinous compounds that help to combat infections and promote wound healing.
• Barks: Frankincense barks are used to make essential oils that exhibit antimicrobial properties, making them effective against various types of infection-causing bacteria and fungi.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic frankincense for infection.

1. Harvest high-quality boswellia serrata resin from sustainably sourced plants weighing 100 grams.
2. Dry the harvested resin in a warm and dark environment for 7-10 days without direct sunlight.
3. Steam distill the dried boswellia serrata resin with distilled water at a ratio of 1:4 using a still for 3-5 hours.
4. Filter the essential oil obtained from the distillation process using a coffee filter paper or a cotton cloth to remove impurities.
5. Bottle and store the final boswellia serrata essential oil in amber glass bottles with tight-fitting lids protected from light at room temperature for up to 6 months.

10. Pelargonium graveolens

Geranium essential oils helps with infection because of its potent antimicrobial properties.

The oil contains compounds such as citronellol, geraniol, and linalool that inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, effectively combating infections. Additionally, geranium essential oil has been shown to stimulate the immune system, increasing white blood cell production and enhancing the body's natural defense against infection.

This makes it an effective natural remedy for treating wounds, cuts, and other skin infections, as well as respiratory infections like bronchitis and sinusitis.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in geranium essential oils that aid with infection.

• Antibacterial properties: Geranium essential oil has been shown to inhibit the growth of various bacterial strains, including E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus, helping to prevent infection and promote wound healing.
• Antifungal properties: Geranium essential oil exhibits antifungal activity against Candida albicans and other fungal species, making it effective in treating fungal infections such as athlete's foot and ringworm.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Geranium essential oil has anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort associated with infected wounds or skin irritations, promoting a healthy healing environment.

The list below shows the primary parts of geranium used to make essential oils for infection.

• Roots: Rich in bioactive compounds, roots are used to create an antifungal and antibacterial essential oil that helps combat infections.
• Rhyzomes: Containing antimicrobial agents, rhyzomes are employed to manufacture a therapeutic essential oil that treats skin infections and wounds.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic geranium for infection.

1. Harvest high-quality fresh pelargonium graveolens leaves at dawn or early morning when their fragrance is most potent.
2. Wash the harvested leaves thoroughly with distilled water to remove dirt and impurities.
3. Steam distill the washed pelargonium graveolens leaves in a stainless steel still for 3-4 hours using 10 kg of leaves per liter of distillation.
4. Collect the obtained essential oil from the condenser and filter it through paper towels or coffee filters to eliminate impurities.
5. Transfer the filtered essential oil into dark glass bottles with tight-fitting caps and store them in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.

How to best treat infection with herbal essential oils?

The best way to treat infection with herbal essential oils is to blend them with a carrier oil and apply topically to the affected area.

For example, tea tree oil's antimicrobial properties make it effective against bacterial and fungal infections. Mix 3-5 drops of tea tree oil with 1 tablespoon of coconut or olive oil and apply to the wound three times daily. Repeat for several days until symptoms improve.

Always dilute essential oils in a carrier oil to avoid skin irritation.

What ailments similar to infection are treated with herbal essential oils?

Ailments similar to infection that are treated with herbal essential oils are skin conditions like acne/essential-oils.html">acne, eczema, and psoriasis.

Essential oils such as tea tree oil, lavender oil, and chamomile oil have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and heal the skin. These oils can also be used to treat minor wounds, cuts, and burns by promoting wound healing and reducing inflammation.

Additionally, some essential oils may help combat fungal infections like athlete's foot and toenail fungus.