Cold and flu season can wreak havoc on our immune systems, especially during the holidays when most gatherings are held inside and people can easily pass seasonal illnesses from one person to another. One of the main ways we catch a cold or flu is actually by inhaling the airborne bacteria from coughs, sneezes, and even from just the breath of a person who is sick.

Once inhaled, our immune systems either take care of the invading germs and we stay well or our immune system gets run down and “overthrown” by the bacteria and we catch a cold.

One surprisingly effective way to limit the number of airborne bacteria in our homes is to diffuse essential oils. It has been proven that by diffusing essential oils in a room for even just 5 minutes will allow the oils to kill off bacteria and mitigate its colonization for the next 60 minutes (source).

Pretty effective if you ask me!

Table of Contents

The Best Essential Oils for Airborne Bacteria

Below is a good list of some of the most effective essential oils for inhibiting the spread and growth of airborne bacteria when used as a spray or when diffused into the air.

Balsam fir
Cinnamon bark – one of the most powerful antibacterial/antiviral oils
Clove
Fir
Four thieves blend
Grapefruit
Lemon
Mountain savory
Oregano – one of the most powerful antibacterial/antiviral oils
Peppermint
Sage
Spruce
Wintergreen

Essential Oil Recipes for Airborne Bacteria Control

Recipe # 1 - Germ-Fighter Room Spray

Add the water and the essential oils to the bottle, cap closed, and shake well before use.

Spray into the air before guests arrive (or as desired) to help keep germs at bay.

Recipe # 2 – Immune Support Diffuser Blend

Fill the diffuser to the appropriate level with filtered water
Add 5-10 drops of Thieves blend (buy it here or learn how to make it here)
Alternatively, just add 5-10 drops of your favorite essential oil from the list above

Run the diffuser before guests arrive and even while guests are in your home. The scent of essential oils can be a very festive and inviting fragrance that not only smells nice but helps keep airborne bacteria to a minimum.

You can also make room sprays that can double as disinfecting sprays for frequently touched objects, bed sheets, etc. by adding 20 drops of essential oil to 2 oz of water in a spray top bottle.

Shake well before use.

What have been your favorite essential oils to use for controlling airborne bacteria? Please share in the comments below!

You may also enjoy reading:

Essential Oil Quick Usage Guide
Antibacterial, Antifungal, and Antiviral Essential Oils and How to Use Them
Broad-Spectrum Essential Oil Blend for Cold and Flu
12 Must-Have Remedies for Cold and Flu Season