It still amazes me that a few drops of Tea Tree oil can kill just about anything. Okay, well, not anything but with all of its germ fighting properties and valued as a natural remedy for skin infections, it makes this one of the most sought after oils to have on hand for a wide array of applications. Many people have heard of this oil but commonly ask, what is the benefit of tea tree oil? The health benefits of Tea Tree oil can be attributed to its properties as an antibacterial, antimicrobial, antiviral, antiseptic, expectorant, fungicide, insecticide and a stimulant.
Tea Tree Oil Uses
Tea tree oil, also known as melaleuca essential oil can be used for many ailments, including acne, athlete’s foot, candida, chicken pox, colds, cold sores, corns, dry scalp, cuts, flu, insect bites, migraine, oily skin, ringworm, sinusitis, spots, sores, urethritis, warts, whooping cough, fungal nail infections, lice, and scabies.
It is a versatile oil that is a natural remedy for preventing infection and promoting healing. One of the most common uses of this oil is for acne. It has been shown that a 5% solution of Tea Tree oil works just as well as drug store brand acne products that contain benzoyl peroxide, but without negative side effects.
A Long History Of Traditional Use
Australian aboriginals used tea tree leaves for healing skin, infections, burns and cuts by crushing the leaves and applying them to the affected area. Tea Tree oil first came to the attention of western society in 1732, when Captain James Cook made his famous trip around the world. Once in Australia, Captain Cook brewed a spicy tea from the leaves of the melaleuca alternifolia tree, naming it the “Tea Tree”.
It was only in the 1920s, after an Australian chemist by the name of Arthur Penfold published research on Tea Tree oils antiseptic properties that its benefits became widely known. Even the Australian soldiers were issued Tea Tree oil as an antiseptic during World War II. The Australian army and navy incorporated Tea Tree oil in first aid kits as an official germicide. Today, it’s known as “the first aid kit in a bottle” due to its antiseptic properties. Did you know almost every household in Australia has a bottle?
Many Household Products Contain Tea Tree Oil
Over the years, I have seen a growing number of products containing Tea Tree oil. Many high end brands have created new personal care products and household products using various essential oils with tea tree being one of the most popular. There has been an increased global demand and companies such as “The Body Shop”, “Lush” and “Bath and Body Works” have a range of products containing Tea Tree Oil. Even more pharmaceutical brands are introducing Tea Tree oil cosmetic and personal care products.
Household Products Include:
Shampoos & Conditioners
Skin Cleansing Lotion & Body Lotion
Shower Gels
Scalp Treatment
Antiseptic Cream
Hand Sanitizer
Cleansing Soaps
Deodorants
Skin Care
Mold & Mildew Cleaners
Face Creams
Foot Sprays
Insect Repellent
Using Tea Tree Oil For Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is a practice used to promote better psychological health and physical well-being. Tea Tree oil is one of the most effective oils used for Aromatherapy. It is widely known to boost the immune system and fight infections. It can help clear up the flu and colds, as well as sinusitis, chest congestion, coughs and asthma. If using it in massage, it may help strengthen the body, by energizing and stimulating nerves. There are several ways to use Tea Tree oil in Aromatherapy treatments. These include, diffusion, inhalants and massage.
When applying topically:
Use a 50/50 dilution of one part carrier oil and one part Tea Tree oil. Apply on location and inhale directly. It may also be used in a diffuser to benefit from it’s healing properties, especially if you are treating a cold and congestion. If using it as a massage oil, it can help promote healing to damaged skin while supporting healthy functioning of the respiratory system. Massage therapists have added Tea Tree oil to carrier oils and lotions, to aid their clients in the natural healing process for many years.
If you are new to essential oil therapy, it is recommended to consult with your doctor or healthcare practitioner if you have skin sensitivities or if taking medications. You can also do a patch test on your skin, such as your elbow to watch for any type of reaction. I do this when I start using a new oil for the first time.
Conclusion
Every home should have a bottle of Tea Tree oil. It’s practical, all natural, inexpensive and has many uses for your health and around the home. Tea Tree oil has become more popular within the last few years and now the high end skincare and cosmetic brand names are getting in on the action, developing Tea Tree oil products such as skin creams, soaps, shampoos and lotions. It is probably the most widely promoted oil in recent times, given that it has been backed by studies to treat ailments and cure diseases. It’s a germ fighting oil that is good for your body and your home.
One thing that I want to make clear here is that Tea Tree oil is a potent healer in its purest form, so if you are searching for a brand, only buy 100% natural essential oil. Keep in mind that some essential oils on the market have potentially toxic extenders. If you are looking for a good product line, I recommend Tea Tree oil by Healing Natural Oils. This is the highest quality premium Tea Tree oil and only harvested in Australia. I have used many of their single oils and oil blends that target specific symptoms.
You can see my personal product review page here. My review page will have a link to their website and you can find the Tea Tree oil there as well. All of their products are 100% natural and gentle on the skin and come with a 90 day-money back guarantee, which always gives me peace of mind and enough time to try the product.
Have you used Tea Tree oil and experienced its benefits? We would love to hear your feedback in the comment section below.
