Re: ignorant, but important question about anaerobic bacteria

August 30, 2000

In a message dated 8/29/00 11:53:33 AM Pacific Daylight Time,

RaeHawkrij@... writes:

<< " I doubt that anaerobic bacteria are a big problem in toiletries, "

Could be a BIG problem! Bath oils, skin & massage oils, etc can be prime

breeding for anaerobic bacteria. Another anaerobic bacterial infection we've

all heard of is botulism. Not good! One thing I know is that any oil with

added botanicals is breeding ground for botulism.

" Bacteria is not a problem in products that you make that Do Not contain

> water. "

Not true! Anaerobic bacteria grow in things that have no oxygen - oils,

improperly canned food, etc. There is oxygen in water, which would kill the

anaerobic baddies.

The aerobic baddies can be airborne, therefore can be introduced anywhere.

- - - new subject - - -

People are always asking about petroleum jelly, mineral oil, etc. An article

I found on MedLine indicates that the use of topical petroleum jelly is

implicated in the developement of systemic Candida infections in newborns.

Discontinuing the use helped end the problem. Would you smear Vaseline on

YOUR baby now? Not me . . .

>>

Hi and all,

This is sort of where I was going with my question about the anaerobic

bacteria. I was trying to remember about botulism. I am wondering about

infusing botanicals in oil for use in creams and salves. I do this all the

time, but got to thinking about it maybe growing something after all--even in

the absence of water. And if you add a preservative are the bacteria killed?

For example I know garlic in olive oil can grow bacteria that are harmful.

Anyone else have any ideas? Sounds like another medline search needed?

Angie

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