If you do one thing well....

...wash your hands! 

According to the CDC - if you really need the CDC to say it for it to be true, "Handwashing is like a "do-it-yourself" vaccine—it involves five simple and effective steps (Wet, Lather, Scrub, Rinse, Dry) you can take to reduce the spread of diarrheal and respiratory illness so you can stay healthy. Regular handwashing, particularly before and after certain activities, is one of the best ways to remove germs, avoid getting sick, and prevent the spread of germs to others. It's quick, it's simple, and it can keep us all from getting sick. Handwashing is a win for everyone, except the germs." 

Whether you are at home, at work, traveling, or already sick, good hand hygiene can protect you, your family, and others.

• Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.
• Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Be sure to lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
• Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the "Happy Birthday" song from beginning to end twice.
• Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
• Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.

About hand sanitizers... the FDA recommends a concentration of 60% to 95% ethanol or isopropanol, as the concentration range of greatest germicidal efficacy. Recently there has been some controversy surrounding the products that are marketed for home and school that don't meet those standards. Testing has shown them not as effective as they are trusted for. 

Regardless of how you think or feel about these products... there is a better way - natural! Did you know that essential oils are very well known for cleansing properties? Melaleuca is one of the more powerful oils, with benefits for skin health. At pennies per drop, it's an economical choice too! 

Making your own foaming hand soap is incredibly easy to make. You probably already have all the ingredients, too! You can use any empty foaming hand soap bottle you have laying around the house. Mix and match your favorite essential oils to create your own custom soap. The options are endless!
 
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons liquid castile soap (unscented)
1 tablespoon Fractionated Coconut oil
10 drops essential oils of choice
Water
 
Note: We used five drops of Peppermint and five drops of Melaleuca essential oil
 
Directions:

1. Pour castile soap and Fractionated Coconut Oil into bottle.
2. Add essential oils.
3. Slowly add water into bottle making sure to leave room for the foaming pump.
4. Add lid, shake, and you are good to go!
5. When ready to use, just pump 1-2 times into hands and wash with warm water.

(this recipe was found on doterra.com/blog)

This doTERRA On Guard hand cleansing spray is an easy and convenient way to clean your hands. Keep a bottle in your purse, car, or office for any time you need it.

Ingredients:
4 ounce spray bottle, glass 
1 tablespoon aloe vera gel
20 drops doTERRA On Guard Protective Blend
Water
​
Directions:

1. In spray bottle, combine aloe vera and doTERRA On Guard.
2. Fill the rest of bottle with water. Shake until combined.
3. To use, spray on hands and rub together.

- See more at: https://doterra.com/US/en/blog/diy-make-your-own-on-guard-hand-sanitizer#sthash.rpMLW9eV.dpuf

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