HERBAL HOUSEKEEPING

Many herbs — and their essential oils — have antibiotic, antifungal and antimicrobial properties. They provide a safe, inexpensive alternative to chemical cleaning products.

All-Purpose Cleaner

Better — and safer — than the popular antibacterial cleaners on the market today, this cleaner is ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.

2 tablespoons borax
1/2 cup lemon juice
2 cups hot water
20 drops tea tree oil

Combine borax, lemon juice and water in a spray bottle. Cap and shake well to dissolve borax. Add tea tree oil and shake again. Use as you would any commercial all-purpose cleaner.

Lavender Antibacterial Spray

This spray smells wonderful and can double as a disinfectant and air freshener. It’s perfect for garbage cans.

1 cup warm water
25 drops lavender essential oil

Combine water and oil in a spray bottle and shake well to blend. To use, spray into the air or onto the surface you’re disinfecting.

Rosemary Soft Scrubber

This creamy cleanser is gently abrasive, making it ideal for sinks and showers.

1/2 cup baking soda
1/8 cup liquid vegetable-based soap
10 drops rosemary essential oil

Combine ingredients in a small bowl and stir until you have a smooth consistency. To use, scoop a small amount onto a damp sponge. Scrub the surface you’re cleaning with small, circular motions. Rinse well.

Article reprinted with permission from Herbs for Health magazine, a division of Ogden publications.
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