While regular hand-washing is the most effective way to stay healthy during cold and flu season, it’s helpful to have a natural hand sanitizer on hand when soap and water aren’t available. This gentle, aloe-based sanitizer uses witch hazel and a blend of essential oils for a refreshing, plant-powered clean—without harsh chemicals that can dry out your skin.
About Thieves Oil
Thieves Oil is a traditional essential-oil blend containing clove, lemon, cinnamon, eucalyptus, and rosemary. Its name comes from a 15th-century legend about thieves who supposedly stayed healthy while stealing valuables from plague victims. While the historical tale is debatable, the pleasant scent and household uses of these essential oils are well known.
Important safety note:
Essential oils are highly concentrated. Thieves Oil contains clove, rosemary, and eucalyptus oils, which are not recommended for use on small children.
For a child-friendly version (safe for ages 6 months and older), replace clove, rosemary, and eucalyptus with:
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lavender
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sweet orange
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fir
(No essential oils should be used on babies under 6 months.)
Ingredients (Makes 1 cup)
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⅓ cup pure witch hazel
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⅔ cup 100% pure aloe vera gel
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1 vitamin E capsule (acts as a natural antioxidant)
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15 drops Thieves essential oil blend
Optional: Homemade Thieves Blend
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10 drops clove essential oil
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9 drops lemon essential oil
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5 drops cinnamon essential oil
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4 drops eucalyptus essential oil
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3 drops rosemary essential oil
Make It!
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In a small bowl, whisk together the witch hazel and aloe vera gel until smooth.
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Add the essential oils and mix again.
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Puncture the vitamin E capsule and squeeze the contents into the mixture; stir to blend.
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Use a funnel to pour the mixture into a pump bottle, GoToob, or any squeezable container.
To use:
Shake well before each use. Dispense a dime-sized amount into your hands and rub until absorbed. It may feel slightly sticky at first, but it dries quickly, leaving hands clean, soft, and lightly scented.