Vinegar of the Four Thieves - A Natural Antiseptic

 

Natural antiseptics can be made at home instead of buying commercial disinfectants

that we are now finding out may cause drug resistance.

 

During the time of the Black Plague a family of perfumers robbed the dead. As perfumers they

knew well the antiseptic essential oils, and they infused them in vinegar and rubbed them on

their bodies; by doing so they protected themselves from certain death. The doctors of the time

used the same herbs and essential oils to protect themselves while tending so many who

were contagious. They wore big cloaks over their heads that reached down well below their

shoulders. Attached to the cloak over the nose and mouth was a 10” long canoe-like shaped

beak full of antiseptic herbs and essential oils. Here is the famous Vinegar of The Four Thieves

recipe; it is sometimes called Grave Robber’s Blend.

 

Place a small handful each of dried lavender, rosemary, sage, rue and mint in a large jar,

and cover completely with organic apple cider vinegar. Cover tightly and set for six weeks.

Strain into a spray bottle. Whereas no home can be made to be sterile, spray the powerfully

antiseptic Vinegar of Four Thieves recipe in areas of concern, such as on cutting boards and

door knobs, always making sure to avoid your eyes.

 

by Annie Berthold-Bond, Care2.com Producer, Green Living Channels

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