Nowadays, people are hyperaware of the fact that simple cuts, scrapes, or burns can become easily infected. People apply some over-the-counter ointments or salves just as quickly as the injury happens. Of course, the aim is to accelerate the healing time of the minor wound and decrease the risk of infection. This is all possible with the homemade ointment recipe in this article.
The great thing about having this homemade antibacterial ointment in the house is that it always comes in handy. You can use this ointment on minor cuts, scrapes or burns you get from cleaning, washing the car, or doing yard work. If you have children, you may grab this frequently to help naturally remedy minor bruises or scrapes.
The healing properties of this ointment are attributed to the ingredients. Many of them have natural, antibacterial properties, but we detail the standout ingredients below.
Lemon Essential Oil
Lemon essential oil exhibits a complex chemical composition of antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antibacterial properties. Several studies tested lemon essential oil’s antibacterial activity against Gram positive and negative bacterial strains. Gram positive bacteria included L. monocytogenes, E. faecalis, B. subtilis, and S. aureus. Gram negative bacteria included E. coli, K. pneumoniae, and P. aeruginosa. Lemon essential oil exhibited varying degrees of antibacterial activity against all of these bacteria.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is commonly used in alternative remedies and complementary herbal therapies. The oil is widely available and offers powerful antibacterial and antiseptic properties. From the early 1990s, scientific researchers published reports about tea tree oil’s antibacterial activity. Some studies found that it may combat various bacterial strains because of its inherent hydrocarbon structure. Hydrocarbons can disrupt biological membranes and their function in bacteria.
Beeswax
The structure of the honeycomb is formed by beeswax. Bees secrete wax to build honeycombs, which store honey. Beeswax is naturally rich in hydrophobic protective properties, which may help reduce bruising, inflammation, and burns. Additionally beeswax has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, which may be effective against Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans. These inhibitory effects have led to many scientific studies on beeswax’s activity against bacteria and how it may reduce the risk of infection. When mixed with certain oils, for instance, the antibacterial properties heighten and provide an added layer of activity against harmful bacteria.
Coconut Oil
This highly saturated oil comes from raw coconuts or dried coconut kernels. It’s beneficial for the skin because it contains medium-chain fatty acids, which comprise about 65% of coconut oil’s composition. These medium-chain fatty acids may protect the body from harmful microorganisms. In fact, the antibacterial and antimicrobial activity may protect numerous skin infections like athlete’s foot, cellulitis, and acne from further infection. Coconut oil may also reduce inflammation, which is beneficial for minor scrapes and bruises.
DIY Antibacterial Ointment
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon sweet almond oil
- 2-3 tablespoons beeswax pellets
- 12 drops lavender essential oil
- 12 drops tea tree essential oil
- 1 tablespoon witch hazel
- 12 drops lemon essential oil
Instructions:
- Add the coconut oil, sweet almond oil, and beeswax pellets to the top of a double boiler over low heat.
- Make sure to stir the mixture with a rubber spatula so the ingredients do not burn. Scrape down the sides as needed.
- Once the ingredients are fully melted, remove from the heat and allow it to cool for about one minute.
- Add the essential oils and witch hazel once the mixture has cooled slightly.
- Using an electronic hand mixer, beat the mixture until it is creamy. It will turn into a more solid cream as it cools and solidifies.
- Spoon the mixture into a four-ounce jar and allow the mixture to cool completely. Only screw on the lid when the mixture is completely cool.
How To Use:
- Massage a small amount to the affected scrape or bruise and cover with a bandage if necessary.
- Store in a cool, dry place.
Vincent Stevens is the senior content writer at Dherbs. As a fitness and health and wellness enthusiast, he enjoys covering a variety of topics, including the latest health, fitness, beauty, and lifestyle trends. His goal is to inform people of different ways they can improve their overall health, which aligns with Dherbs’ core values. He received his bachelor’s degree in creative writing from the University of Redlands, graduating summa cum laude. He lives in Los Angeles, CA.
