Certain essential oils contain therapeutic qualities that could aid in the treatment of bacterial infections, including MRSA. Nevertheless, more investigation is still required to verify the efficacy.
When applied directly to the skin, several essential oils, such as lavender and lemongrass, have demonstrated potential as antibacterial therapies for diseases including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Nevertheless, a lot of these essential oils work best when combined with other medications, such as antibiotics.
Continue reading to find out which essential oils can help treat MRSA, which essential oils you can attempt to prevent and treat MRSA, and when to consult a physician about an MRSA infection.
The FDA does not oversee or control the quality or purity of essential oils, despite research indicating they may have health advantages. Before utilizing essential oils, it's advisable to consult a healthcare provider. You should also be sure to investigate the caliber of a brand's products. Before using a new essential oil, always perform a patch test.
Can essential oils be used to treat MRSA?
According to studies, they might prevent the spread of pathogenic germs that cause diseases like MRSA.
In particular, a 2019 study looked at how oregano essential oil affected the growth and development of MRSA bacteria, as well as if oregano oil could harm the DNA of MRSA bacteria.
According to the study, carvacrol, a specific chemical found in oregano oil, inhibits the proper metabolism of MRSA bacteria and can inhibit the expression of specific genes, hence facilitating the growth and dissemination of MRSA.
A review published in 2023 looked at several studies on the benefits of lavender oil. Although some results indicated that lavender may have bactericidal properties, the researchers warned that the synergistic effects of lavender oil are best achieved when used in conjunction with other therapies, such as antibiotics for MRSA.
When used with antibacterial medications like oxacillin, tea tree oil and eucalyptus oil have a synergistic effect on MRSA, according to another 2023 study.
Many of the advantages of essential oils, according to a 2024 study, come from their antibacterial components being concentrated through steam distillation or cold pressing.
It is crucial to keep in mind that essential oils should not be used in place of or as an alternative to any MRSA therapy you are already receiving. Before using essential oils in your treatment plan, it may be helpful to consult a physician. This can assist in excluding any negative medicine side effects.
Types of essential oils for MRSA
The following essential oils may be useful in treating MRSA:
- lemongrass oil derived from Cymbopogon plants (especially C. flexuosus and C. schoenanthus)
- tea tree oil
- eucalyptus oil
- oregano oil
- lavender oil
To confirm that essential oils are useful in treating MRSA symptoms, more research is still required.
Side effects of essential oils
It's crucial to remember that essential oils might trigger allergic reactions like any other substance, such as:
- itchy skin
- rash
- dry skin
- cracked skin
- hives
- sneezing or runny nose from airborne essential oils
- nausea
- vomiting
- bumps or blisters that ooze pus
- burning or stinging where you apply the essential oil
Essential oils should not be taken orally to treat MRSA. Due to the high quantities of the substances they contain, many essential oils can be hazardous if consumed.
Never apply essential oils to the skin at full intensity. They can, however, be used with a carrier oil, like jojoba, coconut, or almond.
Other treatment options for MRSA
Your symptoms and the degree of your MRSA infection will determine your treatment options. Among the most often recommended forms of treatment are:
- oral antibiotics such as oxacillin (Bactocill) or erythromycin (Ery-tab)
- Intravenous antibiotics for serious illnesses
- Incision and drainage for severe MRSA under local anesthetic
When should you speak with a doctor?
If you observe any of the following signs of an MRSA infection, you should consult a physician:
- rash
- headaches
- muscle aches
- cough
- shortness of breath
- chest pain
- chills
- fever
- fatigue
Together, you and your doctor can create an appropriate treatment plan.
Takeaway
Essential oils like lemongrass and oregano oil can be used to treat and occasionally prevent MRSA infections by killing the germs that cause them.
Certain essential oils, like eucalyptus and lavender oils, work best when taken with antibiotics.
It's crucial to avoid attempting to prevent or treat MRSA with essential oils alone. If your infection is unpleasant, persists for a long period, or extends outside of the initial infection site, consult a physician.
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