8 Amazing Benefits & Uses of Tea Tree Oil: Melaleuca Oil
8 Amazing Uses and Benefits of Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil (Melaleuca Alternifolia) is a powerhouse! A natural remedy packed with antiseptic, antimicrobial, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
It's long been used to treat acne, dry skin and dandruff, but it has other benefits too. Tea tree oil benefits skin, hair and nails while being an effective household cleaner and natural sanitiser.
NOTE: None of the following is intended as medical advice - always seek the advice of a medical professional for diagnosis and treatment.
What is Tea Tree? Where Does Tea Tree Oil Come From?
Tea tree oil is an essential oil from the leaves of the Australian tea tree, also known as Melaleuca Alternifolia or Melaleuca Oil. Tea tree oil has been used for centuries by Aborigines, who recognise and value its healing qualities.
Today, scientists and believers in alternative therapies herald tea tree oil for its myriad uses and benefits:
Relieves bacterial and fungal skin conditions
Prevents infection and promotes healing
Keeps oily, pimple-prone skin healthy and clear
Refreshes the skin with its perky tea tree tingle
Uplifts the senses with its unique fragrance
How Do You Use Tea Tree Oil?
Tea tree oil can be found in various skin and hair care products, from soap to shampoo.
If tea tree essential oil is being applied to the skin, first dilute it with a carrier oil. Never apply neat tea tree oil to your skin as it can cause side effects like skin irritation. Always use diluted tea tree oil.
It's also included in some natural household cleaners, such as antibacterial kitchen sprays and toilet disinfectants. Not exactly classy, but necessary after Greg's been on the curry.
Here Are The 8 Most Amazing Uses and Benefits of Tea Tree Oil
#1. HELPS OILY SKIN AND ACNE
With powerful antiseptic and antibacterial properties, tea tree oil helps zap zits, while preventing the spread of spot-causing bacteria.
Its anti-inflammatory action helps reduce the redness, swelling and scarring associated with big, angry pimples, thus leaving skin smooth, pure and clear. Also, a recent study suggests that tea tree oil is as effective as Benzoyl Peroxide for treating acne.
#2. REDUCES DRY SKIN IRRITATION
Sufferers of dry and itchy skin complaints (such as eczema, psoriasis and contact dermatitis) often turn to tea tree oil. Since the oil is an anti-inflammatory, it can help reduce irritation, redness and itching. It can also help prevent infection if the skin is cracked or has been broken by scratching.
#3. POWERFUL AGAINST FUNGAL CONDITIONS
Because tea tree helps fight germs, it's a powerful weapon against symptoms of athlete's foot (tinea pedis) and nail fungus. Dandruff is also said to respond well to tea tree oil shampoo. The oil moisturises and soothes the dry scalp while treating yeast overgrowth with its antifungal properties.
#4. EXCELLENT FOR SANITISATION
Studies have shown that tea tree oil can kill the germs that cause colds, flu and viruses. Little wonder then that it's included in countless handwashes and bar soaps.
For extra protection against germs and bacteria, wash your hands with tea tree soap and use a homemade hand sanitiser. Simply mix tea tree oil with isopropyl alcohol and aloe vera gel.
#5. EASES INSECT BITES
We all know the unbearable itch of an insect bite – and the uncontrollable urge to scratch! But you can prevent that by spraying on tea tree insect repellent (bugs hate the smell) and treating any rogue bites with tea tree essential oil.
The anti-inflammatory effect of tea tree will reduce itchiness and redness before you have the chance to start clawing. If you do scratch and break the skin, tea tree oil will keep the area clean.
#6. TACKLES ORAL BACTERIA
While we don't recommend necking a bottle of essential oil (just say no, kids) we do advocate tea tree oil as a natural mouthwash. When diluted with water, tea tree tackles oral bacteria as you swill. It also eradicates bad breath - obviously we're not talking about you!
#7. CONTROLS ARMPIT HYGIENE
Tea tree's antibacterial and antimicrobial qualities can also help control underarm odour. Keep some on hand, and you'll be covered for gym sessions, sweaty commutes and nerve-wracking first dates.
Tea tree oil is an excellent eco-friendly alternative to modern-day commercial antiperspirants and deodorants.
#8. CLEANS YOUR HOME THE ECO-FRIENDLY WAY
Is the kitchen looking grimy? Does the bathroom need a blitz? You can use tea tree oil to make a natural, eco-friendly household cleaner!
Simply mix 20 drops of tea tree oil, 180ml of hot water and 120ml of white vinegar. Shake well, then pour the mixture into a repurposed spray bottle. Shake well before each use and ensure the lid is on - you remember what happened with that time with the ketchup bottle!
Your DIY disinfectant will keep your home's surfaces spotlessly clean and hygienic – and help you reduce your plastic use/waste. Here's How To Make Inexpensive Natural Washing Detergent with Tea Tree oil.
ET VOUS?
Do you use tea tree oil for skincare or around the house? Do you believe in tea trees' natural abilities to cleanse and purify skin and surfaces? Let us know your thoughts!
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