By Noelle Katai - © 2008, Vim Essentials, Inc. Used by Permission. Originally posted at www.vimessentials.com/vimblog.

So at least one of my favorite, goofy quotes from Peter Sellers in the classic “Pink Panther” movies happens to be timely…in reference to the Swine flu bug floating around at the moment.

Several people have recently asked me how they can use essential oils to bolster immunity and help prevent picking up the bug.

First, use some common sense. Cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough. Keep your hands clean. Hot soapy water works just fine, but for quick access when you are out and about, use HEALTHY hand sanitizers. What? Aren’t they all healthy? Not really. First of all, many of them contain high percentages of ethyl alcohol, which definitely kills bacteria, germs and viruses, but it also eliminates some the good bacteria we need on our skin. Using ethyl alcohol on your hands to kill bacteria is like using a blow torch to light a candle.

So what else to use? If you are going for a store brought item, my favorite is, Clean Well. It uses a derivative of Thyme as its base. (and no, I do not get paid to endorse the product).

Of course, I recommend making your own essential oil based hand sanitizers as well. They are so easy, kids can do it, just like the Lavender and Tea Tree blend with Harper here. This blend is great for adults, too.

Other anti-viral essential oils include: Melissa, Cinnamon Bark, Lavender, Thyme Linalool, the Citruses, Geranium, and of course, the all-encompassing Tea Tree. A blend of these oils diffused in your office, home or car will help to diminish viruses. Check out these other blends to stay healthy and feel better: Office Germ Control; On the road; Decongest.

Keep breathing and stay healthy!