As a follow-up to last week's rant on the stupidity of relying on OTC (over the counter) medicines and prescriptions (Lemon Balm: Natural Medicine with NO Side Effects), here is some great information on how to make homemade herbal antiseptic spray.

There are several herbs that contain highly antiseptic properties and are known as potent germ-killers. For example:

• Calendula flowers -- anti-inflammatory, astringent, anti-microbial, anti-fungal

---

• Sage -- anti-microbial, astringent, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, anti-viral

---

• Yarrow -- anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-viral, astringent

---

• Thyme -- anti-septic, anti-viral, astringent

---

• Lavender -- anti-septic, soothing

---

• Goldenseal Root -- anti-bacterial, antibiotic, anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial

---

• Tea Tree -- anti-viral, anti-fungal, anti-septic

This particular recipe is found on one of my very favorite sites, Frugally Sustainable, and is called Wound Wash. Use this First-Aid Antiseptic Spray to help prevent contamination and skin infection -- and for relief of pain associated with minor scrapes, abrasions, burns, cuts, and other skin irritations. You spray it directly onto wounds to clean.

There is a basic warning that goes with this product, though: it is for external use only, and is not meant to be used on deep/puncture type wounds.

Likewise, if you have a wound that doesn't improve with the use of the herbal antiseptic, it would be vital that you stop using the spray and go see a doctor immediately. Lack of healing could indicate a more serious infection (staff, for instance) and you need to consult a professional.

Finally, if this idea interests you, there are a couple good recommendations on where to buy the things you'll need for Wound Wash:

• Mountain Rose Herbs: The author on Frugally Sustainable calls this business her one-stop-shop. I would agree. There products are top quality, and they have everything you'll need for this remedy.
• The Bulk Herb Store: This is another good source of quality essential oils; they also carry a few of these ingredients, if you'd like to compare prices.