Some essential oils have medicinal properties that may help with bacterial infections, such as MRSA. However, further research is still needed to confirm the effectiveness.
Some essential oils, including lemongrass and lavender, have shown promise as antibacterial treatments when applied topically to the skin for conditions like methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). However, many of these essential oils are only effective when used alongside other treatments like antibiotics.
Read on to learn more about the essential oils that may be able to treat MRSA, what essential oils you can try for treating and preventing MRSA, and when you speak with a doctor about an MRSA infection.
While research suggests there are health benefits, the FDA doesn’t monitor or regulate the purity or quality of essential oils. It’s important to talk with a healthcare professional before you begin using essential oils and be sure to research the quality of a brand’s products. Always do a patch test before trying a new essential oil.
Studies suggest that they may stop infectious bacteria from spreading and causing conditions like MRSA.
A 2019 study specifically examined the effects of oregano essential oil on the growth and development of MRSA bacteria, including whether oregano oil could damage MRSA bacterial DNA.
The study noted that a particular compound in oregano oil called carvacrol prevents MRSA bacteria from properly metabolizing and can stop certain genes from being expressed, which allows MRSA to grow and spread.
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Another 2023 study noted similar findings for tea tree oil and eucalyptus oil — these oils have a synergistic effect on MRSA when used along with antibacterial treatments like oxacillin.
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It is important to remember that essential oils should not be used as an alternative or replacement for any treatment you are receiving for MRSA. It can be beneficial to speak with a doctor before adding essential oils to your treatment regimen. This can help rule out any adverse drug effects.
Essential oils for MRSA that may be effective include:
- lemongrass oil derived from Cymbopogon plants (especially C. flexuosus and C. schoenanthus)
- oregano oil
- lavender oil
- tea tree oil
- eucalyptus oil
Further research is still needed to confirm the effectiveness of essential oils in treating symptoms of MRSA.
It is important to note that essential oils, just like any other substance, can also cause allergic reactions, including:
Do not try to consume essential oils by mouth to treat MRSA. Many essential oils can be toxic if they’re swallowed because of the high concentrations of the compounds that they contain.
Essential oils should never be applied at full strength to the skin. However, they can be mixed with a carrier oil, such as almond, coconut, or jojoba.
Treatment options for MRSA can depend on your symptoms and the severity of the condition. Some of the most commonly prescribed treatment options can include:
- oral antibiotics, such as erythromycin (Ery-tab) or oxacillin (Bactocill)
- IV antibiotics for severe infections
- incision and drainage under local anesthesia for severe MRSA
You should speak with a doctor if you notice any of the following
A doctor can work with you to put together a suitable treatment plan.
MRSA can be treated and sometimes prevented by using essential oils, such as lemongrass and oregano oil, to kill the bacteria that cause MRSA infections.
Some essential oils are most effective when they’re combined with antibiotics, such as lavender and eucalyptus oil.
It is important not to try to prevent or treat MRSA using only essential oils. Speak with a doctor if your infection is painful, lasts for a long time, or spreads beyond the original infection area.