Cologne: A Scented Shield Against Germs?

The recent popularity of Turkish cologne, known as kolonya, during the COVID-19 pandemic has brought the question of whether cologne can kill germs to the forefront. Kolonya, with its high alcohol content, has been recommended by Turkey's health minister as an effective hand sanitizer, leading to a surge in demand. Scientific research also supports the claim that cologne has antibacterial properties, and can even prevent the spread of flu germs. However, it is important to note that cologne is not as effective as commercial cleaners, and the high alcohol content can have adverse effects on the skin.

Turkish kolonya as hand sanitizer

Turkish Kolonya is a traditional Turkish citrus cologne with a high alcohol content, usually between 60-80%. It is typically made with ethyl alcohol, water, and fragrances such as lemon, tobacco, rose, orange, and jasmine. The use of Turkish Kolonya spread rapidly in the last century of the Ottoman Empire due to its disinfection properties, and it is now commonly used as a hand sanitizer, refresher, and mosquito repellent.

Turkish Kolonya has been used for centuries for its aromatic and medicinal properties. It is believed to have antibacterial and germicidal properties, making it an excellent disinfectant that can eliminate harmful microbes, bacteria, and viruses from the skin's surface. This is why most public places in Turkey provide Limon Kolonyasi for customers to use, especially during the flu season. The scent is also believed to ward off evil spirits and protect visitors from illnesses.

In Turkish culture, it is customary to serve Turkish Kolonya to guests, and it is often offered as a welcoming gesture in homes and businesses. It is also used after meals for hand cleaning and to refresh the neck and hands, especially during hot weather. The refreshing scent of Turkish Kolonya is uplifting and invigorating, providing an aromatic experience that is both calming and rejuvenating.

During the recent pandemic, Turkish Kolonya was one of the most-used liquids in Turkey. Its high alcohol content makes it effective at killing bacteria and germs. Turkish Kolonya kills bacteria by dissolving their oily membrane and neutralizing their cell structure.

Scientific research on cologne's antibacterial properties

Scientific research has proven that cologne has antibacterial properties. It can kill germs and prevent the spread of flu.

One study found that the antibacterial activity of coriander essential oil was tested against 18 microorganisms (bacterial and fungal isolates) and recorded significant antibacterial activity with low minimal inhibitory concentration.

Another study tested the antimicrobial activity of six essential oils commonly used in Brazil as condiments. The essential oils were basil, rosemary, marjoram, peppermint, thyme, and anise. The study found that thyme essential oil had the lowest minimum inhibitory concentration value, at 1.25 mg/mL.

A third study evaluated the antibacterial activity of Epilobium parviflorum essential oil against five microorganisms: Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans. The growth of all tested bacteria was inhibited.

A fourth study found that the essential oil of Litsea cubeba prolonged the lag phase growth of E. coli cells and completely killed them within 2 hours.

A final study evaluated the antimicrobial activity of 99 natural fragrance raw materials against pathogenic bacteria. The materials included essential oils, balsams, concretes, and absolutes. The study found that the materials exhibited inhibitory effects on the growth of the tested bacterial species, with the lowest minimum inhibitory concentration values observed for Staphylococcus aureus, Kocuria rhizophila, and Pseudomonas putida.

Alcohol content in cologne

Alcohol is often the main ingredient in perfumes and colognes. Alcohol is used as a base to distill the fragrance concentrate, acting as a solvent for the aromatic compounds of the other materials in the formula. The alcohol used is typically denatured ethanol, which is made unfit for consumption, often by adding various chemical compounds to change its taste, colour, and smell. This is done to avoid excise tax and prevent the illegal diversion of products as alcoholic beverages.

The alcohol content in colognes can vary depending on the type of fragrance. Colognes typically have a higher alcohol concentration than other types of fragrances, such as eau de toilette and eau de parfum. According to one source, colognes can have an alcohol concentration of up to 95%. However, another source states that colognes can contain between 70% and 92% alcohol.

The presence of alcohol in colognes can offer several advantages. Alcohol helps to spread out the perfume oils and evaporates quickly, leaving behind the fragrant materials that settle on the skin and diffuse their notes over time. Alcohol also helps to preserve the fragrance, extending its shelf life.

In addition to its role in fragrance diffusion and preservation, alcohol in colognes can have antibacterial properties. Scientific research has shown that cologne can kill germs and prevent the spread of flu germs. This makes cologne a useful disinfectant, especially when used in conjunction with proper handwashing and other hygiene practices.

Using cologne to prevent flu

Cologne has been used as a disinfectant for centuries, and its antibacterial properties have been proven by scientific research. While it may not be as effective as commercial cleaners, it can still be a useful and inexpensive way to kill germs and prevent the spread of flu. Here are some things to keep in mind when using cologne for flu prevention:

Frequency of Use

It is recommended to use cologne several times a day to prevent the flu and reduce the risk of infecting those around you.

High Alcohol Content

The effectiveness of cologne as a disinfectant is largely due to its high alcohol content. For example, the Turkish cologne "kolonya," which has been used for more than 200 years, contains ethanol and can kill more than 80% of germs, making it an effective hand sanitizer.

Natural Disinfectant

In addition to its germ-killing properties, cologne is also a natural disinfectant. During the COVID-19 pandemic, people turned to natural alternatives like vinegar and cologne to protect themselves from the virus.

Alternative to Commercial Cleaners

While commercial cleaners are more effective at disinfecting, cologne can be a good alternative when those products are not available or are too expensive. Professor Peter Collignon, an infectious diseases physician, suggests that we often overuse chemicals when hot, soapy water is generally enough for cleaning.

Limitations and Precautions

It's important to note that cologne may not be suitable for all surfaces, as it is an acid. Additionally, some people may find the smell off-putting. It's also important to be cautious when using cologne on the skin, as alcohol can kill skin cells.

Natural disinfectants

The COVID-19 pandemic has made people more aware of the importance of basic cleanliness, such as washing hands, wiping doorknobs, and scrubbing countertops. This increased awareness has led to a surge in demand for cleaning products, including natural alternatives. Natural disinfectants are free from harsh chemicals, better for the environment, and gentler on the skin.

Vinegar

Vinegar, particularly white vinegar, is a natural disinfectant that can be used to clean laundry, floors, dishes, and surfaces. It contains acetic acid, which breaks down bacteria. When diluted with water, it can be used to disinfect laundry, floors, and dishes.

Lemons

Lemons are another natural disinfectant with antimicrobial properties, making them effective at killing bacteria and viruses. They can be used to remove stains, scrub surfaces, and eliminate odours. Lemon juice can be used to soak stained clothing, towels, or textiles, and lemon halves can be used to scrub cutting boards, copper pots, or knives.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a powerful natural disinfectant trusted by health professionals to kill harmful bacteria, antigens, and viruses. It can be diluted and used for cleaning jobs around the home, such as shower tubs and walls, and for disinfecting fruits and vegetables.

Hot Water

Hot water is an effective disinfectant, especially when combined with other cleaning agents. Water heated to 140-150 degrees Fahrenheit is optimal for disinfectant purposes. It is important to protect your skin when working with hot water, and combining it with an oxidizing agent can enhance its effectiveness.

Alcohol

Alcohol is an effective disinfectant when concentrated between 60-90%. It can be used to create a natural cleaning solution by mixing rubbing alcohol, liquid dish soap, white vinegar, and ammonia with water. This solution can be used to sanitize windows, mirrors, chrome fixtures, and other hard surfaces.

Essential Oils

Certain essential oils, such as tea tree, lavender, and peppermint, have antimicrobial properties and can be used as natural disinfectants. They can be combined with water to create antibacterial sprays or mixed with vinegar or alcohol for a more potent cleanser.

While natural disinfectants offer many benefits, it is important to note that they may not be as powerful as their chemical counterparts. Additionally, it is crucial to follow proper cleaning and disinfecting procedures, such as cleaning surfaces before disinfecting, to ensure effective germ removal.

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