The antibacterial properties of essential oils and essences have been proven by scientific research.

The principal antibacterial essential oils and essences have been sorted into:

-     major antibacterial agents

Thymol Thyme	Winter Savory	Oregano	Clove Buds	Tea Tree

These essential oils are the most effective but are dermocaustic. They must not be applied to the skin. Tea Tree is the exception. It requires no special precautions when used in therapeutic doses. It can be applied to the skin of adults and children. 

- average or lesser antibacterial agents

Lemongrass	Citronella	Citriodora	Bourbon	Pamarosa
		Eucalyptus	Geranium

These oils require no special precautions (except Eucalyptus with asthmatics). They may be used by adults and children, by application to the skin (diluted in a vegetable oil) or by air diffusion (alone or combined).

Peppermint is an irritant for mucous membranes in the eye. It is diffused in a blend at a low percentage (maximum 5%), or applied to a small skin area. It should not be used on children under 7.