Natural Moisturizing Hand Sanitizer

A non-chemical, naturally scented version of hand sanitizer can be made right at home using powerful essential oils and a few other ingredients. The essential oils I chose to use boast the following beneficial properties: antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal.

Use hand-sanitizer as a pinch hitter
Keep in mind its purpose and use: use to clean your hands when soap and water are not accessible. Hand sanitizers are not to be used over and over again a million times during the day.

Ingredients & others

one glass jar because of the essential oils on use
mini mixer
10 drops lavender essential oil
10 drops tea tree essential oil
1 Tablespoon witch hazel extract or high-proof vodka
2 Tablespoon 100% pure, organic aloe vera gel
5 drops teaspoon Vitamin A oil
¼ teaspoon Vitamin E oil – a natural preservative to increase shelf life and It will also help soften hands!

Method

Add essential oils and Vitamin E & A oil to a small glass bowl or container and swirl to mix. Add witch hazel (or alcohol) to the oils and swirl again. Add this mixture to the aloe vera gel and mix well. Shake gently before each use. (Sanitizer should last several months with the addition of Vitamin E to help preserve.)

Tips and warnings

The lavender is used in the recipe to round out the strong scent of the tea tree oil. If you’re not a fan of lavender, choose another antibacterial oil such as rosemary, sage, sandalwood, or peppermint.
Not recommend for kids under 4 years old.
Always take care when handling essential oils. Keep in mind these are very concentrated, powerful plant extracts. If you are new to using essential oils you may want to test for an allergic reaction before slathering on this hand sanitizer. As with any natural plant, family members could be allergic. For a simple patch test mix one drop of essential oil with about 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Rub a bit on the inside of your elbow, cover with a bandage, and wait 24 hours to see if there is any negative reaction.