Who doesn't love sanitizer? Unless you love germs, you have to love the convenience of hand sanitizer. But nothing is ever entirely perfect. The smell is horrible, and last I, checked sanitizer isn't the most moisturizing thing in the world. But...what if I told you it's possible to get your hands on a non-toxic, non-drying, and great-smelling sanitizer that still has antibacterial, anti-fungal, and antiviral properties?
Take a look a this great homemade hand sanitizer recipe below!
What You Will Need:
5-10 drops lavender essential oil
30 drops tea tree essential oil (at least a 0.5% concentration)
1 Tablespoon witch hazel extract or high-proof vodka
8 ounces 100% pure aloe vera gel
¼ teaspoon of vitamin E oil (doubles as a natural preservative and skin softener)
Directions:
Add essential oils and Vitamin E to a small glass bowl or container then mix
Add witch hazel to the oils and mix some more
Add the aloe vera gel to... the mixture making sure to mix extra well
Put your newly created mixture into a squeezable topped container
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Tips:
- Make sure to shake gently before each use. With the natural preservative the sanitizer should last a few months.
- The use of lavender balances out the strong scent of the tea tree oil. Alternatives for the lavender are rosemary, sage, sandalwood, or peppermint. Each of these essential oils have there own unique scent, yet still offer the antibacterial component of the lavender.
- Essential oils are heavily concentrated plant extracts. If you aren't familiar with them, it's best to do a patch test for possible allergic reactions (just mix a drop with 1 tbsp of olive oil and rub on your elbow).
Visit the BlackDoctor.org Colds and Flu center for more articles.
