10 uses of tea tree oil

What is Tea Tree essential oil?

Tea tree essential oil is derived from the plant Melaleuca alternifolia that is native to Australia. It has natural antiseptic, antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. Tea tree oil has been used in Australia for more than a century. There are several uses for this essential oil. The common uses will be discussed in this post.

The primary active compounds in tea tree oil are terpene hydrocarbons, monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes. These compounds provide the antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties of tea tree oil.

10 Common uses of Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil can be used topically or aromatically. It is NOT to be ingested. It is poisonous if swallowed.

1. ACNE TREATMENT

Tea tree oil is commonly used to treat acne due to its antiseptic properties.

Place 1 drop of tea tree oil on a moisten cotton swab and dab on the affected areas before bed. Rinse affected areas with water the next morning. Repeat this application daily.

Another method of acne treatment is to prepare a face mask with 1 teaspoon of raw honey and 5 drops of tea tree oil. Apply this mixture to the affected area, let it stay for about 15 minutes before rinsing with water. Repeat this application once weekly to the affected area.

2. MAINTAINS GOOD ORAL HEALTH

Do have bad breath, gingivitis or plaque buildup?

Tea tree oil can help treat all of them due its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

To treat gingivitis and bad breath add 3 drops of tea tree oil to a cup of warm water and rinse the mouth once daily.

Adding 1 drop of tea tree oil to your toothpaste whenever brushing the teeth helps with plaque removal.

Do NOT swallow tea tree oil as it can be toxic if ingested.

3. TOE NAIL FUNGUS TREATMENT

Apply 1-2 drops of tea tree oil directly on the affected nail rubbing it gently around the nail with a clean cotton swab. Repeat once daily until the fungal infection has cleared up.

Add 5 drops of tea tree oil to a small tub of warm water. Soak the feet for 15 minutes. Dry the feet. Repeat once daily.

4. DANDRUFF TREATMENT

Tea tree oil is a great treatment for dandruff because it is antifungal, it also helps to reduce itching and dry scalp. Add 2 drops of tea tree oil per ounce to your regular shampoo. Wash the hair once or twice weekly.

5. HOUSEHOLD CLEANER

Tea tree oil can be used to kill mold and as a deodorizer as it is antifungal and antibacterial. Mix 2 teaspoons of tea tree oil and 2 cups of vinegar in a spray bottle and use to spray areas in the home where mold might be at risk of forming. Leave for a few minutes before wiping.

6. DEODORANT

Makes an excellent homemade deodorant.

INGREDIENTS

3 Tbsp coconut oil
3 Tbsp arrow root powder or corn starch
10-20 drops tea tree essential oil
3 Tbsp baking soda

INSTRUCTIONS

Melt the coconut oil using the double-boiler effect in the first recipe.
Once melted, remove from heat, and stir in the remaining ingredients.
Pour the mixture into a small, glass jar or container and let it set for a couple hours. Apply with fingers.

7. INSECT REPELLANT

To make your DIY insect repellant. You will need:

A spray bottle
20 drops citronella essential oil
20 drops lavender essential oil
1 teaspoon neem oil (optional)
20 drops tea tree oil
20 drops lemongrass essential oil
½ cup distilled water
20 drops eucalyptus essential oil
1 tablespoon vodka

Combine the oils, water, vodka and shake well. Make sure to shake well before each use.

8. ANTISEPTIC FOR SKIN BRUISES

Clean the cut thoroughly with plain soap and water. Mix one drop of tea tree oil with one teaspoon of coconut oil. Apply a small amount of the mixture to the injury and cover with a bandage. Repeat this process once or twice daily until a scab has formed.

9. NASAL/SINUS DECONGESTANT AND SORE THROAT TREATMENT

Make a medicinal steam using 3-4 drops of tea tree oil to a bowl of hot water. Using a towel to cover your head and the bowl. Inhale the steam for at least 10 minutes.

10 HAND SANITIZER

Mix 3 teaspoons of witch hazel and 25-30 drops of tea tree oil in a bowl mixing well. Add one cup of aloe vera gel to that mixture and stir well. Place in a squirt bottle for use.

Make sure to try these uses of tea tree essential oil. Let me know in the comments which uses are the best ones for you. Enjoy.

Link for detoxing with essentials oils on YouTube.