Yes, you can use an effective, natural antiseptic. It would be helpful to first distinguish antiseptics from antibiotics since the two are often referred to interchangeably: An antiseptic is a solution, commonly isopropyl rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, applied to the skin that kills microorganisms and prevents infection. An antibiotic does pretty much the same thing-annihilates infection-causing microorganisms-but it works inside the body and is most often prescribed in pill form by a doctor a la penicillin. There are also topical antibiotic creams, like Neosporin, that are available over the counter.
The first natural antiseptic that comes to mind is big in Australia: tea tree oil. A potent, broad-spectrum natural antiseptic, tea tree oil appears in all sorts of personal care products like shampoo, body lotion, toothpaste and more. For treating minor bites, burns, and bang-ups, go straight to the source and apply pure tea tree oil directly to the wound. Or, dilute it with a carrier oil and apply. Also, tea tree oil-based creams and ointments made specifically for antiseptic care may be a bit more up your alley since you’re used to working with packaged, pre-concocted remedies. Thursday Plantation is a reliable brand to keep an eye out for. And like tea tree oil, essential oils of lavender and eucalyptus are both miracle workers when it comes to healing skin irritations. Both lemon juice and honey have potent antiseptic properties, as does lemon balm.
This may be a bit too esoteric for your liking, but if you grow thyme, carrots, garlic and other assorted veggies and herbs in your garden, you can use them for medicinal purposes. And two kitchen staples that you should already be using around the house for non-culinary purposes, baking soda and vinegar, can be used to treat “ouchies."
