Essential oils capable of killing superbugs, research finds

MARESE McDONAGH
The Irish Times - Tuesday, December 15, 2009

FOR MANY PEOPLE essential oils are associated with sweet-smelling rooms or a relaxing bath, but their antibacterial components make them “highly efficient” in the treatment of so-called hospital “superbugs”, according to new research.

Scientists based at Sligo Institute of Technology have discovered that some essential oils are capable of killing the most resistant bacteria including MRSA as well as Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE) and Extended Spectrum Beta Lactamase (ESBL).

Superbugs, which have been attributed to overcrowding and poor hygiene in hospitals, are potentially life threatening, especially for people already frail due to illness.

Describing the findings as “very promising”, the research team, which includes staff from the Department of Microbiology at Sligo General Hospital, said the oils were effective against bacteria which were resistant to conventional antibiotics.

PhD student Julien Thibault said most antibiotics were “useless” in the fight against superbugs because of their enzyme content. Those antibiotics which do have an effect are so toxic that they are administered as a last resort because of risks to, for example, liver and kidney, he explained.

While essential oils are widely available in a range of outlets including pharmacies, health stores and supermarkets and are popular for use as antiseptic treatments and in aromatic oil burners, there has been little focus until now on their impact on resistant bacteria.

Essential oils are composed of plant extracts which generally contain a large number of chemicals, some of which have antibacterial properties.

The researchers tested a large range of oils and their components, and found that among the most effective at killing the MRSA, VRE and ESBL strains were clove, lemongrass, citronella, thyme, oregano, cinnamon while the popular tea tree oil was also found the be “quite effective”.

“The list is not exhaustive – a large majority of the oils tested showed activity at relatively low concentrations,” said Mr Thibault.

He said that while the results were promising, further work was needed to provide viable alternatives to patients. “This is a starting point,” he said, adding that caution was always needed when using essential oils.

Dr Fiona McArdle from Sligo IT, the supervisor on the project, said they were hoping to do further research so that the “huge potential” in the use of natural products in the treatment and eradication of superbugs could be exploited.

Mr Thibault said it had already been established that essential oils as vapour did have some antibacterial properties.
http://itsligo.ie/research-innovation/research/research-projects/
http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/health/2009/1215/1224260710594.html

Protection against the Flu and Essential Oils

As the bubonic plague ravaged Europe in the year 1413, the story of the four thieves arrived on the scene and the story has changed history. They were captured and charged with robbing the dead and dying victims but it was noticed that they remained free of the plague. When the thieves were tried, the magistrate offered leniency if they would reveal how they resisted contracting the infection as they performed their gruesome acts. The four thieves explained that they were perfumers and spice traders and finally exposed their special concoction of aromatic herbs, including cloves and rosemary, that they rubbed on their hands, ears, and temples. This prevented them from contracting the disease! And as a result the “bird-masks” were invented to be worn by doctors as protection against airborne bacteria. In the beak was placed a material infused in a blend of essential oils that would filter, and kill, bacteria. These masks later became the “prototype” for the well-known Venetian carnival-mask.

The essential oil blend of the Four Thieves was tested at Weber State University for its potent antimicrobial properties. Thieves oil was found to have a 99.96% percent kill rate against airborne bacteria. The oils are highly antiviral, antiseptic, anti-catarrhyal, antibacterial, anti-infectious and also help to stimulate the immune system circulatory and respiratory systems and help protect the body against such illnesses as flu, colds, sinusitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, sore throats, cuts etc.

A study by researchers in France in 2008 tested bactericidal activity of 13 different essential oils and had similar results, with cinnamon being the most effective. At concentrations as low as 10 percent or less, cinnamon oil was also effective against several antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria, such as Staphylococcus and E. coli. During this study, after only 10 minutes there was a reduction of 82% in Micrococcus luteus, 96% in Pseudomonas aeruginosa and 44% in Staphylococcus aurous.

There are a few recipes floating about for the Four Thieves:

Clove oil (Syzgium aromaticum) 200 drops or 1/2 ounce
Lemon oil (Citrus limon) 175 drops
Cinnamon Bark oil (Cinnamoomum verum) 100 drops
Eucalyptus oil ( Eucalyptus radiata) 75 drops
Rosemary oil (Rosimarinus officinalis) 50 drops

And, here are two recipes for Thieves Oil. One from Karen another from Debbie.

Thieves Oil recipes:

Equal amounts of eucalyptus, rosemary, cinnamon, clove and lemon. Mix with base of olive oil. I usually put a tablespoon of each in a 2 oz. bottle and then fill the rest with olive oil. you can make a larger batch in a quart jar following the same proportion method.
Same ingredients, but measured out in different strength's. Clove Bud Oil 200 drops, Lemon Oil 175 drops, Cinnamon Oil 100 drops, Eucalyptus Oil 75 drops, Rosemary 50 drops.

Then there is also the essential oils being touted as combating the H1N1 Swine Flu of 2009: Oregano, Lemon, Cinnamon, Clove, Eucalyptus, and Tea Tree. Not so much different from the Four Thieves. I would say whatever you have on hand from any of these list would absolutely be beneficial to your immune system and to help fight off any form a cold or flu.

How to use the essential oils:
*Place in a diffuser for 10-15 minutes every hour up to 4 hours to kill airborne germs.
*Dilute 2 drops of the blend in a carrier oil and apply to chest to relieve cough, bronchitis, pneumonia, clear phlegm and to heat up the body if chilled.
*Place 2 drops of diluted blend on to the lymph nodes to attack the virus and massage gently.
* Place 1 drop on the bottom of each foot for an overall kick start to your immune system. This also allows your body to start the detox process to rid the germs and virus. This is one of the most important things you can do for yourself.

My research includes but not limited to: Scent, Annick LeGuerer; The Foul & Fragrant, Alain Corbin; Aroma, The Cultural History of Smell, Classen/Howes/Synnott
http://politicolnews.com/protection-against-swine-flu/#comments http://stanford.wellsphere.com/general-medicine-article/four-thieves-vinegar-oil/801645

Natural Hand Sanitizers- Getting ready for the Flu Season

Nothing beats old-fashion soap & water, but when your out and about and that's not available, having a natural sanitizer will keep you of harms way and germ free. Here's a couple of recipes.

Start with a liquid container-fill it 2/3 of the way with water-add a tablespoon or 2of Aloe Vera Gel-you can choose between 3 & 5 of the listed essential oils and then add 5 drops each of lemon, cinnamon, eucalyptus, clove bud, lavender, tea tree. Add a splash of either rubbing alcohol or vodka and top off with water, shake it and gently apply to hands.

Or

10% Ravensara in Aloe Vera gel = Natural Hand Sanitizer

Oregano Stops Inflammation of Lupus, Rheumatoid Arthritis

Over the last couple of years turmeric has become a darling of nutrition researchers. One particularly important study showed the spice reduces inflammation in mice. Curry all around was the conclusion, since there is no toxic dose associated with turmeric. Asian cuisine basked in the healthy glow of the research.

Not to be outdone, the herb oregano is giving a similar boost to Italian foods and pizza sauce. A 2008 study completed by Swiss researchers (?!) shows that oregano is an ultimate inflammation fighter. The active ingredient, betacaryophyllin, helped seven out of every 10 mice to recover from inflamed paws.

The study was published here in the U.S. in Proceedings of National Academy of Sciences, marking a significant mainstream mile for the herb—and for betacaryophyllin, abbreviated as E-BCP, which is also plentiful in black pepper (“yes, I would like fresh-ground pepper on my salad”), rosemary and cinnamon (also found in research literature to be a regulator of bad cholesterol). Plus, basil, so those Italians clearly know how to stem inflammation too.

Reducing chronic inflammation is no small thing, as it is increasingly associated with leading to heart attacks and sits at the root of autoimmune disorders including diabetes, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis among others. One promising discovery is oregano and E-BCP could well work to prevent the immune system for overacting and attacking itself, which is at the core of autoimmune disorders.

And there’s more. The Swiss scientists reported that lab findings suggest that oregano could well hold off the bone degeneration associated with osteoporosis. While not part of this study, the researchers speculated that E-BCP could address inflammation of the bowel associated with Crohn’s disease.

The new research doesn’t surprise those of us who have discovered oil of oregano, especially as a cold and flu remedy. Natural-health conscious parents say five drops in a bit of water, then gargle with it, stops a sore throat in its tracks. The oil has a strong, bitter taste, so you might want to mask it for kids.

Health practitioners who work with essential oils will point to the triple-threat potency of oil of oregano, identifying it as antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal. European herbal research consistently shows oregano as one of the most potent for immune-boosting properties.

The oil of oregano products are important to keep in mind because what might be labeled “oregano” in a dried herb products can actually be Spanish marjoram, which is clearly not oregano. You want to look for sourcing information to identify the herb as wild oregano, which is typically grown in the Mediterranean region. Essential oil, of course, distilled the plant down to a concentrated and therapeutic form. Be savvy about where and how you get your oregano and health rewards await.

And probably even better tasting pizza sauce.

By Bob Condor, AHJ Editor -- Published: May 21, 2009
Bob Condor blogs for Alternative Health Journal every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
http://www.alternativehealthjournal.com/blog/1/oregano_stops_inflammation_of_lupus__rheumatoid_arthritis/226

Agricultural Aromatherapy: Lavender Oil As Natural Herbicide

ScienceDaily (May 21, 2009) — Could essential oils extracted from lavender be used as a natural herbicide to prevent weed growth among crops? Research carried out in Italy and reported in the current issue of the International Journal of Environment and Health suggests the answer may be yes.
Elena Sturchio of the National Institute of Health and Safety at Work in Rome and colleagues there and at the Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, and the Department Crop Production, at Tuscia University, in Viterbo, have investigated the inhibitory effects on weed growth of aromatic oils, or mixtures of phytochemicals, from plants such as lavender, Lavandula officinalis.

Essential oils, are as the name suggests, often the plant's "essence" in terms of odour. Essential oils are complex chemical mixtures of natural products made by the plant for its own purposes, including terpenes, alcohols, aldehydes and phenols. Indeed, several plant essential oils are present as natural inbuilt herbicides and pesticides.

Synthetic pesticides and herbicides have been in common use for decades and have protected crops from parasites, insects, bacteria, viruses, fungi, and eliminated weeds. However, by virtue of their design, these substances are toxic and in some cases thought to be carcinogenic. Their incorrect use or inadvertent exposure have been the focus of numerous studies on animal and human health, the results of which have led to serious initiatives to find alternative approaches to pest and weed control.

Other researchers have investigated the potential of essential oils from cinnamon plants, and peppermint to prevent seed germination of some weed species found in the Mediterranean region.

Sturchio and colleagues have investigated the effects of lavender oil on root growth in a plant, Vicia faba in trials. This weed has large chromosomes and so was also amenable to studies in the laboratory that investigated the genetic toxicity of the essential oil on the weed. Their analysis showed the oil to be effective at killing the weed even at low concentration. Moreover, the oil affects growth of soil microbes and fungi involved in crop growth.

The team concludes that, "Essential oils could be useful as potential bioherbicides as an alternative strategy to the chemical remedy." They add that, "The use of phytochemicals permits the development for more sustainable agriculture at low environmental impact. Further studies are now needed to evaluate use of such oils "in the field".

The team points out that the oils would most likely be used either before planting or prior to transplantation of seedlings, so the essential oil would not have toxicity effects on the crop itself. Sturchio adds that, "essential oils are not accumulated in the environment, because of their low persistence due to the easy degradation by microbial and enzyme activity. This aspect could represent an advantage compared to the bioaccumulation of chemicals on soil."


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Journal reference:

Miriam Zanellato, Eva Masciarelli, Laura Casorri, Priscilla Boccia, Elena Sturchio, Mario Pezzella, Andrea Cavalieri, Fabio Caporali. The essential oils in agriculture as an alternative strategy to herbicides: a case study. International Journal of Environment and Health, 2009; 3 (2): 198 DOI: 10.1504/IJENVH.2009.024878
Adapted from materials provided by Inderscience, via AlphaGalileo.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/05/090514083921.htm

Israeli Scientist Uses Cinnamon to Save Lives

IsraelNN.com) Cinnamon may spice up more than cuisine, perfume, air fresheners and pharmaceutical products, according to a study by Tel Aviv University Professor Michael Ovadia.

The Israeli scientist began his research into the medicinal properties of cinnamon after pondering the weekly Torah reading he heard at synagogue seven years ago.

"There is a passage that explains how the High Priests, the [Kohanim] would prepare a holy oil used to be on their bodies before they made a ritual animal sacrifice," recalled Ovadia in an interview published by Israel21c. "I had a hunch that this oil, which was prepared with cinnamon and other spices, played a role in preventing the spread of infectious agents to people."

Research by the university's Department of Zoology found the fragrant spice, used in everything from cooking to aromatherapy and perfume, could neutralize viruses and immunize against certain infections.

Avian Flu H9, Sendai virus, HIV and Herpes Simplex 1, and Newcastle disease virus were all found to respond in Ovadia's experiments. It is important to note, however, that the cinnamon extract used in the studies was from a particular variety of cinnamon using coumarin and cinnamon aldehyde, which are byproducts of the actual spice.

Most important: be aware that these substances can also be highly toxic and damage the liver if ingested in large quantities. "You cannot take high doses from the natural form of cinnamon," warns Ovadia. "If you used it several times a day to protect you from the flu, it would be toxic."

The essential oil produced from cinnamon bark has long been used by aromatherapists in a variety of ways, including as a stimulant and antiseptic.

In one of the best known books in the field of aromatherapy, famed French aroma therapist Jean Valnet, MD lists cinnamon as an effective element in remedies to combat the flu, as well as intestinal parasites, problems in the digestive system and other physical issues. Valnet's mentor, Robert Tisserand, warns that cinnamon oil is so powerful that it should not be used on the skin at all.

But it is not surprising that a Jewish scientist in the Land of Israel would be the one to discover a way to fight life-threatening disease with cinnamon, given its history as one of the most powerful spices used in the most ancient Jewish rituals.

This month a patent-pending research and license deal on the extract was signed between Tel Aviv University's technology transfer company, Ramot, and Frutarom, an Israeli-based multi-national "nutraceutical" company. Frutarom expects to use the cinnamon extract in myriad applications, including an air spray to prevent the spread of Avian flu in airports and a daily supplement to be marketed as an anti-flu preparation.
http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/124223

Cinnamon Spice Offers Health Benefits

Ricky Hussey
October 7, 2007


Cinnamon is widely used both in the food and pharmaceutical industry because of its antiseptic properties. The cinnamon bark oil is used as a flavoring for digestive aids, liniments, and oral care products. It is also used in many perfumes, soaps, and lotions. In addition, cinnamon leaf oil is used in the food industry as flavorings to candies, sauces, and pastries. The commonly used ingredient is actually the soft, inner bark of the cinnamon tree.

This spice is now being heralded as the latest in the long line of herbal medicine wonders? According to research findings, one teaspoon of cinnamon contains 28 milligrams of calcium, one milligram of iron, fiber, and vitamins C, K, and manganese.

The use of cinnamon dates back in Chinese medicine to 2800 BC, and is known as “kwai” in the Chinese language. Ancient Egyptians used it in the embalming process of corpses because of its fragrance. Medieval physicians used this spice to treat coughs, hoarseness, sore throats, and other types of infections. Cinnamon also has antibacterial and inflammatory properties that help reduce joint and muscle pain, especially the discomforts associated with arthritis.

Many health specialists advice diabetics to take daily dose of cinnamon to regulate blood sugar levels. It can also benefit one's health by improving the body's digestive system and relieve many stomach discomforts.




In aromatherapy, cinnamon oil is used to stimulate and warm the senses, restore vigor, and treat stress and anxiety. Cinnamon oil is also important in strengthening the immune system because its scent is said to treat early stages of cold and fever. The oil of cinnamon is also used as a physical and emotional stimulant, with many believing that it can actually enhance one's libido.

Medical research also indicates that the scent of cinnamon may reduce drowsiness, irritability, pain, and frequent migraines. In some studies, the essential oil provides relief to tight muscles, ease painful joints, and relieve menstrual cramps in women. Cinnamon also increases the action of enzymes that break down the food in the body and help improve one's metabolism.

Traditional uses of cinnamon

Many traditional cultures around the globe have been using cinnamon not just as an ingredient in their favorite dishes but as a medicine as well. In fact, cinnamon has been highly valued for its medicinal properties for hundreds, perhaps even thousands of years.

Here are the other health benefits of Cinnamon:


· Studies have shown that just 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon included in a daily diet can lower cholesterol.

· Cinnamon may have a regulatory effect on blood sugar, making it especially beneficial for people with diabetes.

· Cinnamon has shown an amazing ability to stop medication-resistant yeast infections.

· A study released by researchers at the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Maryland showed that cinnamon reduced the proliferation of leukemia and lymphoma cancer cells.

· It has an anti-clotting effect on the blood.

.Relief from congestion - Cinnamon and other spices have long been consumed to relieve congestion that comes from colds, allergies, and other common conditions.

.Muscle and joint pain relief- Those who eat cinnamon on a regular basis often report that their muscle and joint pain, as well as stiffness, is reduced or even eliminated.

· When added to food, it prevents bacterial growth and food spoilage, making it a natural food preservative.

· Smelling cinnamon may boost cognitive function and memory.

· Researchers at Kansas State University found that cinnamon fights the E. coli bacteria in unpasteurized juices.

Indeed, cinnamon has many benefits that can be used to improve one's health and well-being. If taken together with a balanced, healthy diet and plenty of exercise --- one can bring back the spice of life that everyone longs for.

http://www.americanchronicle.com/articles/viewArticle.asp?articleID=39583