Hand Sanitizer- all natural with essential oils!

Hand Sanitizer -DIY natural recipe

Arm yourself with a softly-scented natural version of hand sanitizer using this recipe

Ingredients

5-10 drops tea tree essential oil 

30 drops lavender essential oil – this is a 0.5% concentration  

1 Tablespoon witch hazel extract or high-proof vodka  (I used vodka)

8 ounces 100% pure aloe vera gel  

¼ teaspoon Vitamin E – a natural preservative to increase shelf life (It will also help soften hands!)

Method

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

I am not a fan of commercial hand sanitizers that contain drying alcohol and often contain triclosan and antibacterial ingredients that may contribute to resistant strains of bacteria. (this will link to a fellow blogger who has done some research in this area!)