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Young Living Thieves essential oil is a versatile synergy blend composed of 5 essential oils with powerful anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and analgesic properties.
These potent properties work together to make the thieves blend an invaluable addition to any essential oil collection. It can be used for a wide range of purposes, from disinfecting surfaces and refreshing your space to supporting immune and respiratory health, promoting relaxation, and enhancing overall well-being.
Before discussing the 40 ways to use thieves essential oil for health and home, here’s a snapshot of what is Thieves essential oil blend.
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What Is Thieves Essential Oil
Thieves essential is proprietary Young Living synergy blend, known for its remarkable health benefits and cleaning properties. It is composed of 5 essential oils – clove, lemon, cinnamon, eucalyptus, and rosemary.
The origins of Thieves essential oil blend can be traced back to the 15th century during the Black Plague.
Legend has it that a group of perfumers from Marseilles, known as the “thieves,” used a combination of aromatic herbs and spices to protect themselves from the deadly disease while robbing the victims.
When captured, they were offered a lighter sentence in exchange for revealing their secret recipe, which later became known as Thieves essential oil.
The key ingredients of Thieves essential oil include:
Clove Bud: Known for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, clove bud oil can help alleviate pain, stimulate digestion, and boost the immune system.
Lemon: With its refreshing and uplifting scent, lemon oil is not only antibacterial and antiviral but also known to improve digestion and reduce symptoms of allergies.
Eucalyptus: This invigorating oil is commonly used to relieve respiratory issues, boost the immune system, and promote mental clarity.
Cinnamon: Cinnamon oil has antimicrobial and antiviral properties, making it a powerful ingredient for fighting infections and boosting overall health.
Rosemary: Known for its stimulating and purifying effects, rosemary oil can help relieve muscle pain, improve circulation, and support respiratory health.
This in-depth article on what is thieves essential oil includes a detailed description on the properties and benefits of the individual components as well as the synergy blend.
How To Use Thieves Essential Oil For Health & Wellness (External Use Only)
1. Boost Immunity
Thieves essential oil is a powerful immune booster, thanks to its blend of clove, cinnamon, lemon, eucalyptus, and rosemary essential oils.
These essential oils work together in synergy to reduce inflammation, fight infections, and support respiratory health.
To use Thieves blend for immunity support, add it to your diffuser and leave it on while you’re working or going about your daily chores.
Another way to use Thieves is to dilute it with a carrier oil (12 drops per 1 oz) and apply it to the soles of your feet or along your spine.
For best results, use nightly, especially during seasonal changes or before travel, to strengthen your body’s natural defenses. Making sure to wear socks if applying to feet to protect your bedding.
2. Respiratory Support
The combination of eucalyptus, rosemary, and clove essential oils makes Thieves a powerful natural remedy for respiratory relief.
These essential oils help loosen mucus, reduce inflammation, and ease congestion, making Thieves a powerful essential oil synergy blend for easing sinus congestion.
The best way to use essential oils for sinus congestion is by creating a steam bath and inhaling the warm vapors.
During high pollen season or during winter when sinus issues are more prevalent, add Thieves to this eucalyptus shower steamer recipe to enhance the decongestant properties of eucalyptus.
Alternately, diffuse Thieves oil to clear airways or dilute it with a carrier oil and apply to the chest or back for soothing relief. Its warming and anti-inflammatory properties promote easier breathing.
3. Pain Relief
Thieves essential oil is a natural option for relieving pain and inflammation when diluted with a carrier oil and applied topically to the affected area.
Clove and cinnamon oils provide warming and numbing effects that soothe muscle aches, joint pain, and tension headaches, while eucalyptus and rosemary oils help reduce inflammation and improve circulation.
Massage the diluted blend onto sore muscles, stiff joints, or your temples for targeted relief, offering a gentle, natural approach to pain management.
These are other essential oils that offer pain relief.
4. Post-Workout Recovery Massage
Its warming and anti-inflammatory properties make thieves essential oil an excellent choice for post-workout recovery.
The blend of clove, cinnamon, and eucalyptus oils helps ease muscle tension, reduce soreness, and promote circulation, while rosemary oil supports faster recovery by alleviating inflammation.
To use, create a soothing massage oil by combining 10 drops of Thieves essential oil with 2 ounces of sweet almond oil and 5 drops of peppermint essential oil. Peppermint enhances the cooling effect, providing a refreshing contrast to the warmth of Thieves.
Gently massage this blend into tired or sore muscles after physical activity to relax tension and speed up recovery. Store the mixture in a dark glass bottle, and shake well before each use to ensure the oils are evenly distributed.
5. Travel Wellness Support
Travel often exposes you to new environments, crowded spaces, and increased stress, all of which can challenge your immune and respiratory systems.
Thieves essential oil offers a convenient way to stay protected and refreshed during your journeys. Its antimicrobial properties help guard against airborne germs, while its invigorating scent promotes relaxation and focus—both essential when navigating the stresses of travel.
A quick and easy way to use Thieves on the go is by carrying an aromatherapy inhaler. Add 15-20 drops of Thieves essential oil to the cotton wick inside the tube, and use it as needed during your travels. This compact tool is perfect for keeping your wellness routine on track wherever your adventures take you.
6. Aromatherapy Support During Seasonal Changes
Seasonal transitions often bring challenges such as allergies, colds, and other issues that can affect overall well-being.
Diffusing Thieves essential oil can help create a supportive and protective environment during these times.
The blend’s antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties purify the air, reducing airborne threats while promoting a sense of comfort and wellness.
The warm and spicy aroma can also help alleviate feelings of fatigue and discomfort that often accompany seasonal changes.
To make the most of these benefits, add 4-6 drops of Thieves oil to your diffuser and run it in 30-minute intervals throughout the day.
How To Use Thieves Essential Oil For Personal Care
7. Relaxing Massage Blend
With its warming and soothing qualities, Thieves essential oil is perfect for creating a massage blend that relieves tension and promotes relaxation. Its natural anti-inflammatory properties can help ease tired or sore muscles, while its invigorating aroma enhances the calming and rejuvenating effects of the massage.
Prepare a warming massage oil by mixing 8 drops of Thieves oil with 4 ounces of sweet almond or grapeseed oil. Add 4 drops of lavender oil for relaxation or 4 drops of peppermint for muscle comfort.
Store in a dark glass bottle and shake well before each use, always performing a patch test first.
8. Natural Deodorant
Thieves is the best essential oil to add to homemade natural deodorant creams because of its powerful antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. These properties help eliminate odor-causing bacteria, keeping you fresh throughout the day. Additionally, Thieves oil has a warm, spicy, and invigorating scent, which provides a natural fragrance without the need for synthetic perfumes.
Add 10 drops of Thieves essential oil to this deodorant cream recipe to create a safe and effective solution to stay odor-free.
9. Hand Sanitizing Spray
When making your own hand sanitizer, it’s important to use essential oils with strong antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties.
Thieves essential oil fits this profile, making it highly effective for killing germs and bacteria.
Combine 20 drops of Thieves oil with witch hazel and aloe vera gel, to create a gentle yet powerful hand sanitizing spray that helps protect against harmful microbes when soap and water aren’t available.
Keep multiple bottles in your car, office, and bag for convenient access.
10. Scalp Massage Oil
Blend 3 drops of Thieves oil with 2 tablespoons of jojoba oil or fractionated coconut oil for a stimulating scalp treatment.
Apply to scalp with fingertips and massage gently for 3-5 minutes before shampooing.
Use this treatment once weekly or as needed, always performing a patch test first.
11. Nail Care Solution
Thieves essential oil is a great addition to nail care routines due to its antifungal and antibacterial properties, which help protect against common nail issues while promoting overall nail health.
Its nourishing blend supports stronger nails and healthier cuticles, making it an effective natural solution for daily care
Dilute 2 drops of Thieves oil in 1 tablespoon of carrier oil to create a nourishing nail and cuticle oil. Apply to nails and cuticles using a cotton swab or small brush before bed, massaging gently into each nail.
These are the best cuticle oils for nail care.
12. Foot Soak Blend
The potent cleansing and soothing properties of Thieves essential oil make it a valuable addition to any foot soak. Its antifungal and antibacterial qualities help refresh and purify tired feet, while its warm, uplifting aroma promotes relaxation and comfort after a long day.
Adding a hint of peppermint oil can elevate the experience with a cooling and revitalizing sensation.
Create a relaxing foot soak by combining 5 drops of Thieves oil with 1 cup of Epsom salts and 1/2 cup of baking soda.
Add this mixture to warm water in a foot bath or tub, soaking feet for 15-20 minutes.
Get more Epsom salt foot soak recipes for tired achy feet.
13. Foot Massage Oil
Combine 8 drops of Thieves oil with 1 ounce of carrier oil and 3 drops of lavender essential oil for a relaxing foot massage blend.
The warming properties of Thieves combined with lavender create a comforting sensation perfect for end-of-day relaxation.
Adding thieves essential oil enhances the benefits of a foot massage. Give yourself a foot massage after a long day of standing or walking and see how good it feels!
14. Personal Care Travel Spray
As a stewardess with an international airline, I always carried a personal care travel spray made with Thieves essential oil to stay protected while on the go. Its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties are perfect for sanitizing and freshening surfaces, helping to reduce exposure to germs in high-traffic areas.
It’s easy to make by combining 15 drops of Thieves oil with 2 ounces of witch hazel and 1 ounce of distilled water in a small glass spray bottle.
Spritz to refresh hotel linens, airplane seats, or other public surfaces.
How To Use Thieves Essential Oil For Home Cleaning
15. Surface Cleaning and Disinfecting Spray
Combine 15 drops Thieves oil with 2 cups of water and ¼ cup of white vinegar in a glass spray bottle to create an all-purpose cleaning spray. Spritz over the surface and wipe off with a dry cloth.
This natural cleaning solution is perfect for countertops, doorknobs, and other frequently touched surfaces.
Always shake well before each use and test on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure surface compatibility.
Get more recipes for making natural cleaning products with essential oils.
16. Greasy Cleaning Solution
Mix 20 drops of Thieves oil with 1 cup of white vinegar, 1 cup of water, and 1 tablespoon of natural dish soap for a powerful household cleaner.
This concentrated solution is especially effective for tackling greasy surfaces in kitchens and bathrooms.
The combination of Thieves and vinegar creates a synergistic cleaning effect that helps remove both grime and odors, leaving a fresh, clean scent.
17. Kitchen Sink Cleaner
Sprinkle baking soda around your sink, then add 2-3 drops of Thieves oil directly onto the baking soda.
Make a paste with a small amount of water and scrub with a sponge, paying special attention to stains and mineral deposits.
The abrasive action of baking soda combined with the cleaning properties of Thieves oil makes this an effective natural solution for sink maintenance.
18. Bathroom Tile Cleaner
15 drops of Thieves oil added to ½ cup baking soda and ¼ cup liquid castile soap makes a powerful bathroom tile cleaner.
Apply the paste to grout lines and tile surfaces using a scrub brush or old toothbrush. Allow the mixture to sit for 5-10 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing thoroughly with warm water for best results.
19. Window and Glass Cleaner
Combine 1 cup white vinegar, 1 cup water, and 10 drops of Thieves oil in a spray bottle for an effective glass cleaner.
The addition of 1 tablespoon of cornstarch helps prevent streaking and creates a professional-looking finish. Shake well before each use and wipe with a microfiber cloth or newspaper for streak-free results.
20. Shower Curtain Mold Prevention
Create a daily shower spray with 2 cups water, ¼ cup vodka or rubbing alcohol, and 20 drops of Thieves oil. Spray the shower curtain and tiles after each use to prevent mold and mildew growth. The alcohol in the mixture helps the oils disperse properly and provides additional antimicrobial properties.
21. Garbage Can Deodorizer
Soak cotton balls with 2-3 drops of Thieves oil each and place them at the bottom of your garbage can beneath the liner. Replace the cotton balls weekly to maintain freshness and help neutralize odors.
22. Refrigerator Wipe Down
Mix 10 drops of Thieves oil with 2 cups water and ¼ cup white vinegar in a spray bottle for an effective refrigerator cleaner. This solution helps eliminate odors while safely cleaning food storage surfaces.
Be sure to remove all food items first and dry surfaces thoroughly after cleaning.
How To Use Thieves Essential Oil To Improve Air Quality
23. Air Purification Through Diffusion
Add 6-8 drops of Thieves oil to your diffuser following the manufacturer’s water fill guidelines.
For optimal results, run your diffuser in 30-minute intervals throughout the day, especially in high-traffic areas or during seasons when windows remain closed.
Consider alternating the placement of your diffuser in different rooms to maximize the benefits throughout your home.
When using diffusion for this purpose, I recommend using an essential oil diffuser for large spaces. These devices disperse the scented molecules over a larger area so you’ll get the benefits wherever you are in the room.
24. Room Refresher Spray
Tweak this room refresher spray recipe and use Thieves essential oil .
Shake well before each use and mist into the air, avoiding direct contact with furniture or fabrics.
This spray is particularly effective in bathrooms, guest rooms, or any space needing quick freshening.
25. Car Air Freshener
Create a natural car diffuser by adding 4-5 drops of Thieves oil to a wooden clothes pin or clay diffuser that can clip to your car’s air vent.
Alternatively, place 2-3 drops on a cotton ball and tuck it into your car’s air vent (ensuring it’s not visible or blocking airflow).
Refresh the scent every 1-2 weeks or as needed, being careful not to oversaturate as the scent can be potent in small spaces.
26. Closet Freshener
Create sachets by adding 3-4 drops of Thieves oil to small cotton bags filled with dried lavender or cedar chips.
Place these sachets on closet shelves or hang them among clothes to maintain freshness.
Refresh the sachets with 2-3 drops of oil every 2-3 weeks or when the scent begins to fade.
Learn how to make closet sachets with essential oils.
27. HVAC Filter Treatment
Place 4-5 drops of Thieves oil on cotton balls and place them near (not directly on) your new HVAC filter when you change it. The air flowing through the system will distribute the beneficial properties throughout your home.
Replace both the cotton balls and filter according to your HVAC system’s recommended maintenance schedule.
28. Guest Room Freshener
Prepare your guest room by running a diffuser with 4-5 drops of Thieves oil for 30 minutes before guests arrive.
Create a welcoming atmosphere by placing scented sachets in drawers and closets, and keep a room spray (15 drops Thieves oil, 2 ounces water, 1 ounce witch hazel) available for quick refreshing.
Remember to instruct guests about any active essential oil use in case of sensitivities.
How To Use Thieves Essential Oil For Laundry & Fabrics
29. Laundry Freshener
Add 4-5 drops of Thieves oil to your washing machine’s rinse cycle, or place 2-3 drops on wool dryer balls for the drying cycle.
For extra freshening power, create a laundry scent booster by mixing 1 cup of epsom salt with 15 drops of Thieves oil, storing in an airtight container, and using 2 tablespoons per load.
This method is particularly effective for gym clothes, musty towels, or heavily soiled items.
30. Linen Spray
Create a refreshing linen spray by combining 20 drops of Thieves oil with 2 ounces of witch hazel and 2 ounces of distilled water in a dark glass spray bottle.
Shake well before each use and spray linens from approximately 12 inches away, allowing them to dry completely. This spray is perfect for freshening bedding between washes or for stored linens.
32. Carpet Deodorizing Powder
Combine 1 cup of baking soda with 15 drops of Thieves oil, mixing thoroughly to break up any clumps.
Allow the mixture to sit in a covered container for 24 hours before use, then sprinkle liberally on carpets and allow to sit for at least 30 minutes before vacuuming. This can be used weekly for high-traffic areas or monthly for general maintenance.
33. Mattress Refresher
Mix 1 cup of baking soda with 10 drops of Thieves oil and let sit for 24 hours in a sealed container.
Sprinkle the mixture over your mattress using a sifter, let sit for several hours or overnight, then vacuum thoroughly. This process can be done seasonally or during regular mattress rotation.
34. Upholstery Deodorizer
Make an effective upholstery powder by mixing 1 cup of cornstarch with 15 drops of Thieves oil and letting it sit for 24 hours.
Sprinkle on upholstery, wait 30 minutes to an hour, then vacuum thoroughly. For delicate fabrics, create a lighter spray version using 10 drops of oil in 4 ounces of witch hazel and 4 ounces of water.
35. Curtain Refresher
Spray Create a gentle curtain refresher by combining 10 drops of Thieves oil with 4 ounces of distilled water and 1 tablespoon of unscented vodka in a spray bottle.
Spray lightly onto curtains when they’re extended fully, being careful not to saturate the fabric. Test on a small, hidden area first to ensure colorfastness.
36. Winter Window Treatment Care
Combine 8 drops of Thieves oil, 4 ounces of distilled water, and 2 ounces of witch hazel to develop a fabric-safe refreshing spray for heavy winter curtains and drapes.
Apply lightly when rotating seasonal window treatments, allowing them to dry completely before hanging.
37. Sports Gear Freshener
Develop a powerful deodorizing spray by mixing 15 drops of Thieves oil, ¼ cup white vinegar, and 1 cup water in a spray bottle.
Spray equipment after each use and allow to dry completely in a well-ventilated area. For items that can’t be sprayed, create deodorizing pouches using small muslin bags filled with cedar chips and 2-3 drops of Thieves oil.
38. Shoe Odor Eliminator
Mix ½ cup baking soda with 8 drops of Thieves oil in a shaker container. Sprinkle the mixture inside shoes at night and let sit overnight, then shake out excess in the morning.
For boots or larger shoes, create sachets using coffee filters filled with the scented baking soda mixture, replacing them every two weeks.
This is very useful as a winter boots deodorizer.
39. Seasonal Storage Box Maintenance
Prepare long-lasting freshening discs by mixing 1 cup of baking soda with 15 drops of Thieves oil and enough water to form a thick paste. Press into silicone molds and allow to dry completely (48-72 hours). Place these discs in seasonal storage boxes, replacing them when bringing items out of storage. Create an inventory system to track placement and replacement dates.
40. How To Use Thieves Essential Oil In Shared Spaces
Thieves essential oil is a powerful and versatile tool for maintaining cleanliness in shared spaces like gyms, offices, classrooms, and outdoor environments.
Known for its antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties, it can be used to sanitize frequently touched items, reduce odors, and promote a healthier atmosphere.
Simply add a few drops of Thieves to cleaning solutions, sprays, or wipes to keep surfaces and equipment free from germs and bacteria.
In addition to cleaning, Thieves essential oil can be used in diffusers to purify the air and create a welcoming environment in shared areas.
The many ways to use Thieves for a variety of purposes, makes it one of the more powerful essential oils for winter wellness.
Safety Precautions When Using Thieves Essential Oil
Thieves Essential Oil is a potent blend that requires careful handling. To ensure safe use:
Always dilute Thieves with a carrier oil like coconut, jojoba, sweet almond, or olive oil for topical application.
Perform a patch test on a small area of skin to check for sensitivity before applying an a larger area.
Keep Thieves oil out of reach of children and pets. It is not recommended for use on young children or pets.
Consult with a healthcare professional before using Thieves oil during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Read this detailed essential oil safety guide if this is your first time using essential oils.
Thieves essential oil is truly a versatile and powerful addition to your daily routines, offering natural solutions for health, home, and personal care. With its cleansing properties and warm, inviting aroma, it’s easy to see why it’s a favorite for so many uses.
Whether you’re looking to create a healthier environment, support your well-being, or simplify your cleaning routines, Thieves essential oil has a place in every corner of your life.
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to serve as medical advice. Please consult your doctor before using any natural medication or if you experience any unusual symptoms. See Full Disclaimer here.
