Botanical Antimicrobial Compositions

Abstract

Disclosed are compositions comprising antimicrobially effective low concentrations of benzyl alcohol, one or more essential oil and one or more botanical extract. The compositions of the application may be used in personal care products including wound care products or in veterinary use. In certain embodiments, compositions are provided having antimicrobial active agents that are substantially or essentially entirely derived from natural sources, thereby allowing the user to avoid harsh and/or toxic chemicals. This may be particularly advantageous in products for use by or on children or pets or for use in households or other environments occupied by children or animals.

1 - 17 . (canceled) 
     
     
         18 . An antimicrobial composition comprising
 (a) from about 0.1% (w/w) to about 2.0% (w/w) benzyl alcohol;   (b) from about 0.02% (w/w) to about 2.0% (w/w) benzoic acid;   (c) from about 0.02% (w/w) to about 1.3% (w/w) farnesol, bisabolol or a combination thereof;   (d) from about 0.05% (w/w) to about 2.5% (w/w) of thymol; and   (e) from about 0.05% (w/w) to about 2.0% (w/w) botanical extract selected from the group grapefruit extract, aloe gel, aloe leaf juice and a combination thereof.   
     
     
         19 . The antimicrobial composition of  claim 18 , further comprising from about 0.1% (w/w) to about 1.0% (w/w) phenylethanol. 
     
     
         20 . The composition of  claim 18 , further comprising from about 0.5% (w/w) to about 2.0% (w/w) of a cationic surfactant.