The question of which type of alcohol is most effective for disinfection has become increasingly relevant, especially in times of heightened hygiene awareness. Essential oils and their active components also play an important role in this discussion. This article provides an overview of various alcohols and key components found in essential oils, their properties, and their applications in aromatherapy.
Alcohols have long been used as effective disinfectants. For optimal antiviral effectiveness, an alcohol concentration between 62% and 70% is ideal. This mixture of alcohol and water ensures that the lipid membrane of enveloped viruses—such as coronaviruses, influenza, or hepatitis viruses—is effectively disrupted. Pure alcohol alone is actually less effective, as the presence of water makes the virus membrane more vulnerable to the solvent.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a hand sanitizer formulation containing ethanol, glycerol, and hydrogen peroxide. Isopropyl alcohol can also be used as an alternative, as its disinfectant properties are comparable.
Essential oils contain a variety of bioactive compounds that contribute to antimicrobial effects. Monoterpenols and monoterpenophenols are particularly significant in this regard:
• Linalool – A monoterpenol found in many essential oils, known for its calming and disinfecting properties.
• Thymol – A powerful monoterpenophenol with strong antimicrobial and antiviral properties, present in small amounts in certain essential oils.
• Geraniol and Nerol – Naturally occurring isomers in essential oils with antimicrobial activity.
• Citronellol and Terpinen-4-ol – Found in tea tree and citrus oils, contributing to disinfection.
When combined in natural essential oils, these components can enhance antiviral and antimicrobial effects, making them valuable tools in aromatherapy.
During alcoholic fermentation, alongside ethanol, small amounts of fusel alcohols (byproduct alcohols) such as methanol, propanol, and butanol are also formed.
• In higher concentrations, these compounds are undesirable, as they are metabolized by the liver into toxic substances.
• Fusel alcohols can dilate blood vessels, impacting heart function and potentially leading to hangovers, as the brain receives less oxygen.
• High-quality distilled spirits contain minimal fusel alcohols, while lower-purity alcohols may have higher levels.
Blending high-proof alcohol with essential oils can further enhance antiviral effectiveness. However, certain key factors must be considered:
• Optimal mixing ratios – To ensure effective homemade disinfectants, the concentration of high-proof alcohol must be maintained. While additives like aloe vera gel can provide skin benefits, they should not significantly reduce the alcohol content.
• Use of natural, high-quality oils – Essential oils with antiviral properties can complement alcohol’s effectiveness. Choosing sustainably sourced oils ensures a diverse spectrum of bioactive compounds for enhanced potency.
Producing homemade disinfectants offers both health and environmental benefits.
• Reduces plastic waste – Creating your own formulations minimizes reliance on single-use plastic packaging.
• Lowers environmental impact – Using natural ingredients avoids harsh synthetic additives.
• Addresses supply shortages – During times of increased demand, self-production provides a reliable alternative for maintaining hygiene measures.
The combination of ethanol and natural essential oils presents a promising approach for effective, skin-friendly, and eco-conscious disinfectants. The disinfectant properties stem from an optimal balance between high-proof alcohol and the antiviral effects of key essential oil components such as linalool and thymol.
Understanding the chemical properties of alcohols and essential oils is crucial for their safe and targeted use in both aromatherapy and hygiene applications.
This article is for informational purposes only. When preparing disinfectants, always follow official safety and quality standards to ensure proper usage and effectiveness.
