Make Your Own Soothing Antibacterial Cream That Really Works—No Chemicals Needed

When you apply Neosporin on a cut, you might be doing more than just speeding up the healing process—you could be exposing yourself to harmful chemicals.

The petrolatum found in the most common antibacterial ointments may be contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are classified as possible carcinogens in Europe.

Want to try a safer alternative? Here’s how to heal wounds with all-natural, soothing ingredients known for their antimicrobial powers.

Ingredients

1/2 cup coconut oil
4 tablespoons beeswax
1 tablespoon witch hazel
10 drops lavender essential oil
15 drops tea tree oil

Instructions

Melt coconut oil and beeswax over a double boiler. Transfer to a blender and add witch hazel, lavender oil, and tea tree oil. Blend 30 seconds.

Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.