Organic Cleaning Do-it-All (OCD)

Active ingredients…

Organic Clove oil… powerful anti-mould agent that kill mould spores and suppress mould growth while providing a high level of cleaning. Provides antiviral, antimicrobial, antifungal, antiseptic, antibacterial and insecticidal properties. The antiviral activity of clove oil is from a compound ‘eugeniin’. Its effectiveness is by the inhibition of the viral DNA while having relatively little effect on normal, uninfected cells. Clove oil has an anti-inflammatory effect on the respiratory system and can help clear the nasal passages. It is used as an expectorant (promotes the secretion phlegm) and has been used for centuries to treat various respiratory disorders. As a bonus, it’s an excellent natural Insect repellent as its vapour is too potent for the olfactory senses of many insects. [16, 17, 18]

Organic Eucalyptus oil… excellent to clean all surfaces with its antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial and antiviral properties. It has been shown to also kill bacterial germs circulating in the air, keeping rooms clean and naturally sterilized. This makes it great for all areas of the home. Eucalyptus oil has been shown to be effective against gram-negative bacteria including some antibiotic-resistant strains and has been reported to have antiviral activity [20, 21, 22]. Unlike regular cleaners that have been shown to increase respiratory symptoms, eucalyptus oil is effective in helping to relieve respiratory problem symptoms such as cough, sore throat, running nose, nasal congestion, bronchitis, and sinusitis. . A 2013 study showed that in just 4-days patients treated with Cineole (Eucalyptus oil contains 60% cineole) “showed significantly more improvements of the bronchitis-sum-score than those of the placebo group” 9.

Organic Lemon oil… acting as a natural anti-infectious, antimicrobial, antiseptic, antifungal and disinfectant for all surfaces, it also helps to achieve a streak-free shine. Due to its proven antimicrobial properties on food-borne pathogens, it acts as an excellent for spray cutting boards, counter tops etc after cooking as it is effective in preventing contamination from, and growth of, pathogenic bacteria. [25].

Organic Tea Tree oil… (TTO) is sourced here in Australia (Melaleuca). It has antibacterial, antimicrobial, antifungal, antiseptic, antiviral, and insecticide properties. Pathogenic bacteria and microbes lurking in your home don’t stand a chance against this oil. Evidence of Tea Tree’s anti-fungal and antibacterial activity is overwhelming. Tea tree oil is effective in disrupting the permeability barrier of cell membrane structures of microorganisms, with its activity being similar to disinfectants such as quaternary ammonium compounds. As a bonus Tea tree oil is a great insect deterrent. A 2011 study 10 concluded that TTO was effective as a deterrent to the different stages of the Australian sheep blowfly larvae. Not that you have larvae hanging around the home but you do have flies that lay larvae! The study showed that TTO aroma stimulated larvae to leave the wound, and its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties aided in wound healing. Virus titers (laboratory test that measures the presence and amount of antibodies in blood) were reduced significantly with Tea Tree Essential oil and results indicate that Tea Tree essential oil (and Eucalyptus oil) can affect the virus before or during adsorption, but not after penetration into the host cell. [10, 26]

Organic Rosemary oil…  a powerful antimicrobial, it acts as a daily disinfectant for all surfaces.. But Rosemary’s wonderful effects don’t stop there. It works extremely well to remove bad odours (keep an OCD Spray in the toilet!!). Known for its ability to boost mental activity, its aroma permeates the air and also helps to relieve stress. A Japanese 2005 [11]  study showed that it can decrease cortisol levels in saliva. Cortisol, our ‘flight or fight’ response to stress wreaks havoc on the body over time. So, by using the OCD Spray in your home you will probably feel a lot calmer. Its inhalation has shown to improve the body’s immune response can increase the strength of the immune system and help and can help to ease symptoms of chest and nasal congestion, allergies, colds and flu. Another study showed that when mixed with other essential oils e.g. clove and eucalyptus, rosemary oil can be effective against particular viruses and bacteria. In one study it was shown to be effective against S. aureus and S. pneumoniae, two bacteria responsible for post influenza pneumonia (Chung & Huh, 2015). This dual activity could be of particular interest to treat influenza and also post influenza bacterial pneumonia infections, a leading cause of influenza-associated death23  The monoterpenes and phenols present in thyme, sage and rosemary essential oils possess noticeable antimicrobial, antifungal and antiviral activity. [11, 14, 19]

Organic Lavender oil… has superior antibacterial and antiviral properties, making it effective for all areas of the home. However, its standout use, is its ability to calm the nervous system. Excellent for those of you that are frazzled from working and kids. And for those who find it hard to sleep – good news – use your OCD spray to clean surfaces in the bedroom because a 2011 study [12] showed that inhalation of lavender oil showed a significant decrease in mean heart rate (HR) which means the nervous system is significantly calmed by the inhalation of lavender which equals better sleep. Further studies show that many essential oils, such as lavender, can bypass the blood-brain barrier and deliver therapeutic agents to the brain {13] exerting positive benefits on the nervous system. As an added bonus mosquitoes don’t like the smell so no more ‘mozzies’ flying around your ears at night keeping you up!! [11,12,13]

Organic Cinnamon bark oil… has potent antibacterial, anti-fungal and antimicrobial capability that destroys and suppresses the growth of microorganisms mainly due to a compound, Cinnamaldehyde. Research shows that cinnamon oil has antibacterial action against S. epidermidis biofilm cells and compared to other essential oils shows a particularly potent bactericidal and significant inhibitory effect against P. aeruginosa, B. subtilis, P. vulgaris, K. pneumoniae and S. aureus. Cinnamon oil has also been shown to inhibit the growth of molds, yeast and bacteria. [16, 27, 28, 29]

Organic Sage oil… has amazing properties… antiseptic, antibacterial, antimicrobial and antifungal. A 2007 Study [14] tested the antimicrobial activity against 13 bacterial strains and 6 fungi. It revealed that both Sage, and Rosemary, had important antibacterial activity against bacteria’s such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, S. enteritidis, and Shigella sonei. Making it an excellent addition to the OCD Spray. Also, its inhalation can help relieve congestion caused from colds and flu. The monoterpenes and phenols present in thyme, sage and rosemary essential oils possess noticeable antimicrobial, antifungal and antiviral activity. [14, 19]

Organic Thyme oil… has superior antiviral antiseptic, antibacterial and insecticide properties. But probably why I love this oil is because of its ability to inhibit bacterial growth. As an insecticide, it targets moths that may inviade your pantry. Use OCD Spray to wipe down pantry shelves and keep the moths away. The monoterpenes and phenols present in thyme, sage and rosemary essential oils possess noticeable antimicrobial, antifungal and antiviral activity [19]. Thyme essential oil is a wonderful expectorant helping to ease congestion. Much like lavender it is also used in aromatherapy due to its stress-relieving abilities.

Solbulizer… necessary to combine the essential oils in the concentrate to the water you add. Without it, your cleaner would separate and you’d get globs of oil on surfaces. Has a 35% Alcohol content.

DIRECTIONS…

• KITCHEN: Cuts through grease, dirt and grime. Spray and wipe.

• FLOOR (Wood, lino, tiles): Pour 1 cup of diluted mix, from spray bottle, into a bucket and add 2ltrs of boiling water to mop floors.

• DISINFECTANT: Spray, leave on a few minutes then wipe clean.

• BATHROOM: All surfaces. For stubborn stains mix into a paste with bicarbonate of soda & scrub clean.

• TOILET: Spray toilet seat and wipe. Toilet bowl: Spray and use toilet brush to scrub.

• MOULD: Spray and leave. Use concentrate for stubborn mould.

• LAUNDRY: As a disinfectant & freshener, place ½ cup of diluted mix into rinse dispenser.

• GLASS/MIRRORS: Spray & wipe clean with microfibre cloth for a streak free finish.

• PILLOWS/MATTRESS/BEDDING: Kills dust mites, Hold 20cm away & spray. Let dry in sun.

• PLASTIC/LEATHER/WOOD: Removes dust. Spray and wipe.

• WALLS: Spray and wipe to remove marks. Use concentrate for stubborn stains.

• CAR: Spray on microfibre cloth, then wipe interior surfaces.

• INSECTICIDE: Spray inside cupboards.

INGREDIENTS… Alcohol solubiliser 35%  and organic essential oils of Clove*, Eucalyptus*, Lemon*, Tea tree*, Rosemary*, Lavender*, Sage*, Thyme*, Cinnamon bark*. *Certified ACO/USDA organic. We certify that our ingredients are not tested on animals.

VARIATIONS… As a regular customer you will notice that each batch may vary slightly in colour, aroma and consistency. This is because Voi is made fresh, with no additives, or artificial anything … so what you are seeing and experiencing… is ‘nature’. Organic oils vary in colour and consistency based on cultivation methods, weather conditions (temperature and water), harvesting methods and conditions. But you can always be assured that Voi products are fresh as a bunch of freshly picked flowers and are always the highest quality.

RECOMMENDED… Although we use natural ingredients you should always perform a patch test before using, to ensure the product is suitable for you. Choose a time where you can leave the spray on for at least 24-hrs. Apply to the underside of your arm, keep the area dry and rinse off after 24-hrs. If during the patch test, or any other time, you notice a reaction, discontinue use immediately and seek medical advice.

LABEL UPDATES… In our efforts to further reduce plastics we are trialling paper labels with eco-friendly ink. Therefore, your label may not look like the one in the photo (previously plastic). We really appreciate your understanding.

REFERENCES

1. American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine (2007). http://www.atsjournals.org/doi/full/10.1164/rccm.200612-1793OC

2. (2009). Evaluation of cleaning activities on respiratory symptoms in asthmatic female homemakers. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19205284

3. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov

4. Final report on the safety assessment of sodium laureth sulfate and ammonium laureth sulfate. Journal of the American College of Toxicology. 2(5): 1–34. doi:10.3109/10915818309140713.

5. Medical Management Guidelines for Hydrogen Chloride. Agency for Toxic Substances & Disease Registry (ATSDR). Atlanta, GA. (2014) Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2014: chap 153.

6. Fourth National Report on Human Exposure to Environmental Chemicals (Fourth Report. (2003–2004). 2009 Report https://www.cdc.gov/exposurereport/pdf/fourthreport.pdf

7. Aiello A.E, Larson E.L, Levy S.B. (2007). Consumer antibacterial soaps: effective or just risky? Clin Infect Dis 2007;45 Suppl 2:S137-S147.

8. Kwon, et al. (2013) Cytotoxic effects of air freshener biocides in lung epithelial cells. Environmental Health Research Department, National Institute of Environmental Research, Korea.

9. Efficacy of cineole in patients suffering from acute bronchitis: a placebo-controlled double-blind trial. (2013). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3842692/

10. J.T, James. P.J. (2011). Insecticidal and repellent effects of tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) oil against Lucilia cuprina. Veterinary Parasitology. Volume 184, Issues 2–4, 23 March 2012, Pages 271-278.

11. T. (2005). Smelling lavender and rosemary increases free radical scavenging activity and decreases cortisol level in saliva. Department of Oral Physiology, Meikai University, School of Dentistry, Japan. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.psychres.2005.12.012

12. L.W., Cheng.S.L., Liu. C.F. (2012). The Effect of Lavender Aromatherapy on Autonomic Nervous System in Midlife Women with Insomnia. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Article ID 740813 http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2012/740813

13. E. Perry. N. (2003). Aromatherapy in the Management of Psychiatric Disorders. Clinical and Neuropharmacological Perspectives. https://link.springer.com/article/10.2165/00023210-200620040-00001

14. Bozin, B et al. (2007). Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Properties of Rosemary and Sage (Rosmarinus officinalis L. and Salvia Officinalis L., Lamiaceae) Essential Oils. Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacy and Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Novi Sad, Serbia. J. Agric. Food Chem., 2007, 55 (19), pp 7879–7885. DOI: 10.1021/jf0715323

15. Other sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. CDC twenty-four seven. Saving Lives, Protecting People.

16. Daniel, A.N et al (2009). Anti-inflamatory and antinociceptive activities of eugenol essential oil in experimental animal models. Rev Bras Farmacogn.

17. Kurokawa, M. (1998). Purification and characterization of eugeniin as an antiherpesvirus compound from Geum japonicum and Syzygium aromaticum. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 1998; 284(2): 728-735

18. Pérez-Conesa, D. McLandsborough L., Weiss J. (2006) Inhibition and inactivation of Listeria monocytogenes and Escherichia coli. O157:H7 colony biofilms by micellar-encapsulated eugenol and carvacrol. J Food Prot.

19. Nazzaro, F., Fratianni, F., De Martino, L., Coppola, R., & De Feo, V. (2013). Effect of essential oils on pathogenic bacteria. Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland), 6(12), 1451–1474. https://doi.org/10.3390/ph6121451

20. Astani, A., Reichling, J., & Schnitzler, P. (2010). Comparative study on the antiviral activity of selected monoterpenes derived from essential oils.

21. Cermelli, C., Fabio, A., Fabio, G., & Quaglio, P. (2008). Effect of eucalyptus essential oil on respiratory bacteria and viruses. Current Microbiology.

22. Vimalanathan, S., & Hudson, J. (2014). Anti-influenza virus activity of essential oils and vapors. American Journal of Essential Oil and Natural Products.

23. Pidot, S.J. et al. (2018). Increasing tolerance of hospital Enterococcus faecium to handwash alcohols. Sci Transl Med.

24. Chung, D. R., & Huh, K. (2015). Novel pandemic influenza A (H1N1) and community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus pneumonia. Expert Review of Anti-Infective Therapy.

25. Yazgan H, Ozogul Y, Kuley E. (2019) Antimicrobial influence of nanoemulsified lemon essential oil and pure lemon essential oil on food-borne pathogens and fish spoilage bacteria. Int J Food Microbiol.

26. Schnitzler P, Schön K, Reichling J. (2001) Antiviral activity of Australian tea tree oil and eucalyptus oil against herpes simplex virus in cell culture. Pharmazie.

27. Prabuseenivasan S, Jayakumar M, Ignacimuthu S. (2006) In vitro antibacterial activity of some plant essential oils. BMC Complement Altern Med.

28. Nuryastuti T, van der Mei HC, Busscher HJ et al. (2009) Effect of cinnamon oil on icaA expression and biofilm formation by Staphylococcus epidermidis. Applied and Environmental Microbiology.

29. Matan N, Rimkeeree H, Mawson AJ, Chompreeda P, Haruthaithanasan V, Parker M. (2006) Antimicrobial activity of cinnamon and clove oils under modified atmosphere conditions. Int J Food Microbiol.