Many studies have found certain essential oils and constituents thereof to posses antibacterial properties even on strains of bacteria resistant to antibiotics. The real-life application of their use is still problematic, however, as many of the most potent essential oils will irritate skin and mucous membranes, not get to the site of infection, lack standardized active ingredients (which can vary from batch to batch of oil) or not spread as needed on a skin or in the body.
Scientists recently developed a new technology, according to a study published in the journal ACS Nano, encapsulating peppermint oil and cinnemaldehyde (a constituent of cinnamon bark essential oil) into a nano-silica microcapsule. The microcapsule treatment was effective against four strains of bacteria, including on antibiotic-resistant strain. The capsules also were found to promote fibroblast formation–cells that support skin healing. Researchers are looking in to ways this technology can be used in hospitals to treat chronic, persistent or antibiotic-resistant infections.