Overview
Fungi like mold and yeast can be found pretty much anywhere:
- In food
- In your home (think showers, drywall, and damp places)
- On your clothes
- On furniture
- On plants
- In the air
- In your body (i.e.: Candida fungal growth)
If left untreated, fungal and mold issues can pose serious health threats to your well-being.
Mold releases toxic substances known as mycotoxins, which according to the World Health Organization can have adverse health effects which can “range from acute poisoning to long-term effects such as immune deficiency and cancer.” (1)
Mold exposure symptoms can include:
- Coughing or wheezing
- Trouble breathing
- Red and itchy eyes
- Rashes on various parts of the body
- Sore throat
- Stuffy nose
Mold spores in the air can land in damp places and begin to grow.
Toxic mold is often referred to as “black mold,” and it can be very difficult to remove from parts of your housing structure so it may require the assistance of a professional mold remediation company.
Bleach is commonly thought to be effective for mold removal, however, it only kills mold on nonporous surfaces like tiles and sinks.
It doesn’t work on porous surfaces like drywall and wood.
In extreme cases, strong chemicals may be the only way to get rid of mold.
If you suspect you have a mold issue in your home, don’t try to treat it yourself.
Seek professional help to ensure thorough removal.
If you’re experiencing mold exposure symptoms consult your health care provider for the best course of testing and treatment.
If you’re looking for a natural solution to preventing mold from growing on the surface areas of your kitchen, bathroom, and in the air then essential oils may be an option for you.
Essential Oils As Natural Remedies
Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts that contain several healing properties like the following:
- Immune system boosters
- Antibacterial
- Antiviral
- Antifungal
- Antiseptic
While some essential oils like tea tree oil have been shown to inhibit mold growth, there currently isn’t enough data or research supporting the efficacy of essential oils to kill mold.
Some studies suggest an inhibitory effect for various strains of fungi and mold such as Aspergillus, but more research is needed.
The recipes and tips and tricks listed below can help you manage the growth of mold on visible surfaces such as kitchen counters, sinks, and showers.
Essential oils can also help clean after you spot moldy food in the fridge, and they can also help purify the air.
In fact, did you know that essential oils are often used in the food industry as natural food preservatives?
The Best Essential Oils With Antifungal Properties
Tea tree essential oil
Oregano essential oil
Cinnamon oil (cinnamon bark, cinnamon leaf)
Clove essential oil
Peppermint essential oil
Lemon essential oil
Rosemary essential oil
Thyme essential oil
2 Mildew & Mold-Busting DIY Essential Oil Blend Recipes
Air Purifier Diffuser Blend
This purifying blend of oils is perfect for diffusing all around your home.
It can help cleanse the air of mold and other pathogens.
- 5 drops of tea tree essential oil
- 5 drops of oregano essential oil
- 3 drops of lemon essential oil
- 3 drops of rosemary essential oil
Fill your diffuser with water and enjoy the refreshing aroma.
Mold & Mildew Spray
Fill an 8-12 oz. dark glass spray bottle with the following:
- 1.5 cups of white vinegar
- 30 drops of tea tree essential oil
- 20 drops of oregano essential oil
- 10 drops of lemon essential oil
- 10 drops of cinnamon essential oil
- Fill the remaining ¾ of the bottle up with distilled water
Safety Concerns
Use gloves and a mask when handling mold and mildew, especially when cleaning a very moldy shower or area.
Opt for certified organic, therapeutic grade 100% pure essential oils every time.
This will help to maximize their potency and effectiveness.
The FDA (Food & Drug Administration) doesn’t regulate essential oils, which means that unfortunately there are many adulterated products on the market.
Choose wisely.
REFERENCES
:
(1) https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mycotoxins
