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Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca alternifolia)
The remarkable properties of tea tree oil have long made it a popular choice for the treatment of a wide range of complaints.
Facts about Tea Tree Oil
- Native to Australia, Melaleuca alternifolia is not commercially grown outside Australia.
- Aboriginal Australians have used tea tree oil for hundreds, maybe even thousands, of years to treat coughs, colds, aches, headaches, and burns.
- Tea tree oil was used by Australian soldiers to treat infections during the First and Second World Wars.
- Tea tree oil is active against all three varieties of infectious organisms: Bacteria Fungi and Viruses.
- Tea tree oil contains chemicals called terpenoids, which give it its unique antiseptic and antifungal qualities.
- Beneficial to all skin types (dry, sensitive, oily, etc.) and does not alter normal cell growth and rejuvenation.
Healing Powers of Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is also effective for treating
- bug bites
- minor wounds
- Acne
- Athlete's foot
- Dandruff
- Vaginitis
- Thrush
- Periodontal disease
- As an antiseptic
- Boils
- Lice
- Eczema
- Psoriasis
- Yeast infection
Other uses Tea Tree Remedies
- Foul Breath? Try adding 3 drops of tea tree oil to water and use as mouthwash twice daily. Or add a few drops to toothpaste before brushing.
- Body Aches? Rub pure tea tree oil into muscles. Or add 3-5 drops to warm bath and soak for relief.
- Congestion? 2 drops of tea tree oil in a bowl of steaming water. Cover head and inhale for 5-10 minutes.
*As with any oil, it is wise to do an allergy test by swabbing some of the oil on the inner arm. If the skin becomes red, swollen, or itchy, do not use it on other parts of the body. Tea tree oil should not be taken orally.
