Essential Oils With Vinegar for Air Spray

Essential oils are obtained by distillation of aromatic flowers and plant leaves.

Commercial deodorant sprays often contain noxious chemicals, alcohol and other synthetic ingredients that most people prefer not to breathe. Chemical deodorizers sometimes trigger asthma attacks, cause allergies to flare-up and create a diverse array of respiratory problems. Therapeutic grade, pure and natural essential oils are a safe and environmentally friendly alternative to toxic chemicals and synthetic fragrances.

Lavender

Lavandula angustifolia "lavender" essential oil has a crisp, floral fragrance. Lavender essential oil is obtained from the flowers by steam distillation. Lavender is used for its anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-infectious and anti-parasitic properties. Mix 3 oz. of water, 3 oz. of white vinegar and 20 to 30 drops of therapeutic grade lavender essential oil in a spray bottle. Mist draperies, carpets and upholstered furniture to remove stale cooking, smoking and pet odors. Place a few drops of lavender essential oil on a cotton ball and place in linens, bedding and pillows. The scent of lavender promotes restful sleep and repels moths and mites.

White Fir

Abies alba "white fir" essential oil is obtained by steam distillation of the fir tree needles. Pungent and crisp, the scent of white fir essential oil is refreshing and invigorating. Mixed with water and vinegar, white fir essential oil spray removes the scent of cooking odors, pets, mold and mildew. White fir blends well with cedar, balsam, lemon and lavender. Add 20 to 30 drops of preferred essential oils to a mixture of 3 oz. white vinegar and 3 oz. of water. Place in a spray bottle and mist the air to freshen stale household air. Add 1 cup of white vinegar and 20 to 30 drops of white fir essential oil to a vaporizer or home humidifier. The mist removes common household odors of cooking, pets and cigarette smoke.

Geranium

Geranium oil relieves the sting amd itch of mosquito bites.

Pelargonium graveolens "Burbon geranium" presents a rich, spicy floral scent. Mix 30 drops of geranium essential oil with 1/2 cup of water and 1/2 cup white rice vinegar. Use in a spray bottle to banish foul odors in bathrooms, closets and cupboards. Geranium essential oil removes mildew odors, repels insects, destroys dust mites and is antiseptic, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal. Use to freshen gym bags, sneakers and athletic gear.

Thyme

Bouquets of sweet thyme were once believed to instill courage and strength.

Thyme is anti-viral, anti-infectious, antibacterial, antiseptic and anti-fungal, and is a common ingredient in organic cleaning compounds. Thyme blends well with rosemary, basil and fennel essential oil for a rich and pungent herbaceous aroma. Mix 20 to 30 drops in 1/2 cup water and 1/2 cup vinegar and 1/4 cup organic dish washing soap. Spray on counter tops, appliances and other hard surfaces. Wipe clean with a damp cloth for a bright and shiny clean.

References

• Great Upper Valley Solid Waste District: Alternative Receipes
• Purdue University; Horticulture and Landscape Architecture; "Essential Oils and Culinary Herbs"; James E. Simon; 1990
• "The Santa Cruz Sentinel"; "Lavender Not Just For Soap Anymore"; Abbie Blair; April 2005

Resources

• Aroma-Essence: House Cleaning
• Aromatherapy for Animals: Essential Oils as Flea Repellents
• Young Living: Natural Household Cleaner
• Earth Notes: Organic Cleaning Recipes
• The Real Essentials: Practical Use for Essential Oils