Coronavirus: can strong alcohols be used as makeshift disinfectants? : Current Woman Le MAG

In France, the outlets for hydroalcoholic gels have been robbed since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. These small bottles are antiseptic products that disinfect hands. These are temporary solutions, because these gels do not replace conventional cleaning with soap and water.

Covid-19: strong alcohols, alternatives to hydroalcoholic gels?

Many "alternative methods" have appeared to fill this lack of hydroalcoholic solutions. To replace disinfectant gels, some people have considered using strong alcohols sold in supermarkets like vodka or rum.

An idea strongly discouraged by the World Health Organization (WHO): "No, spraying alcohol on the body does not kill the viruses that have entered your skin. Spraying these substances can be harmful to clothing and mucous membranes. " The institution also recalled that alcohol can be used to clean surfaces, but that it is necessary to follow the appropriate recommendations.

How to prepare your own hydroalcoholic gel?

To make up for the lack of antiseptic gels, you can make them yourself in a few steps:

  • Remember to disinfect your bottle and utensils with alcohol at 70 ° C, to eliminate any germs.
  • Then pour into your container 3 tablespoons of alcohol at 70 ° C
  • 2 teaspoons of glycerin
  • 6 tablespoons aloe vera gel
  • 46 drops of lavender essential oil (essential oils being very allergenic, remember to test them upstream on a small part of your skin)
  • 18 drops of tea tree essential oil

For this hydroalcoholic gel recipe, you will need a small container of about 75 ml. Do not forget to note the date of preparation, since handmade solutions do not keep for more than three months.

⋙ Discover the recipe on video

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