Tea tree oil is made from the leaves of the native Australian Melaleuca tree. It has been used for centuries as a topical ointment because of its anti-fungal and antibacterial abilities. As consumers shift their focuses to more natural and healthier ways of living, essential oils have come under the spotlight as a safe and easy way to naturally cure several conditions and countless symptoms that can be very common. Tea tree oil has been used in everything from dental needs to bathroom cleaner. Like many treatments, what works for one person may not work for another and no treatment is guaranteed. Here are some common and some less known ways of using tea tree oil.
As A Fungal And Bacterial Treatment
Tea tree oil has been shown to relieve symptoms of athlete’s foot. A topical application of the oil will relieve the sufferer of inflammation, burning and itching associated with the fungal infection. It also has a significant effect in curing fungus infections developing on nail beds.
A common use of tea tree oil is acne treatment. Application of a tea tree oil gel in studies showed equal improvement in acne as those using the common over the counter solution benzoyl peroxide. While results are sometimes slower to appear, tea tree oil has less harsh side effects to the delicate facial skin.
While ingesting tea tree oil can be dangerous and even toxic, there are toothpastes and mouthwashes available with tea tree oil as a main ingredient. Because the solutions are not directly swallowed they are deemed to be safe. Brushing with tea tree oil can remove cavity causing dental plaque. By removing dental plaque and improving overall conditions in the mouth, symptoms of gingivitis can be reversed and cured. Tea tree oil has also been used to treat cold sores. If one does not wish to use tea tree oil directly in their mouth cleansing products, they can use it to clean their toothbrush and eliminate germs by applying the oil to the bristles a couple times a week.
Dandruff and head lice are often difficult ailments to cure. Some people turn to tea tree oil if they suffer from these issues. Tea tree oil shampoos are available that target dandruff causing grease and can eliminate annoying itchiness and lesions brought on by the condition. Tea tree oil can be used as a lice repellent or combined with lavender essential oil as a means to kill lice eggs and live lice.
As A Natural Cleaner
Tea tree oil has also become a common ingredient in homemade household cleaning products. It can be mixed with water and other ingredients as needed to create a safe and natural all-purpose cleanser that is safe to use anywhere in the house. It can also be used in showers or other moist areas to prevent the growth of damaging mold. It can also be added directly to the washing machine to help freshen and brighten clothing. While babies should never be exposed to tea tree oil, it can be used to clean cloth diapers and to keep a diaper bin smelling fresh.
As A Natural Bug Repellent
Tea tree oil can also be added to water and squired directly on to the skin to be used as an effective insect repellent. If a tick is found on the body, oil can be directly applied to the area. Most of the time the tick will remove itself. The oil can also be added to a pets bed or crate in very small amounts to prevent fleas. If fleas are already present, tea tree oil can be applied directly to the bites. It can also be applied directly to mosquito bites to help stop itching.
As An Aches And Pain Treatment
Tea tree oil has been used as a treatment for an earache by mixing a drop of the oil with a small spoonful of olive oil. The solution is distributed inside the ear while the patient sits with their head tilted to prevent any leaking.
For muscle soreness and painful joints, tea tree oil is added to a warm water soak with Epsom salts. Massage the areas well after soaking for several minutes. The oil can also be massaged directly onto areas where arthritis has made the joints swollen.
Tea tree oil can be added to a common home vaporizing machine when congestion in the chest is present. This will also work to help treat asthma symptoms or complications from other breathing complications, such as emphysema. It can also be added to warm bath water when soaking to help alleviate the symptoms of the common cold and flu. Many also use it as a treatment for sinus infections and even as an allergy reliever.
As A Skin Healer
Warts often require uncomfortable treatment, such as burning or freezing the wart and possibly surrounding skin. Instead, tea tree oil can be applied directly to the wart twice daily for removal. Tea tree oil is also effective for plantar warts.
Tea tree oil was applied directly to wounds before other types of germ killing ointments were readily available. The oil would prevent infections and help the wound to heal quickly. This can still be done today. It can also be used to relieve itchy rashes and to help soothe the skin from sunburns. When mixed with honey, tea tree oil can be used as a topical treatment for burns. Some have used it as a treatment for ringworm or psoriasis, a condition that often needs intense medication. It has also shown promise in treating eczema and dermatitis.
After getting a tattoo, the skin can be raw and sore. The skin is also prone to infection. Mix tea tree oil with water and use a spray bottle to apply to the tattooed area to prevent infection and help the skin heal.
While some uses of tea tree oil lack scientific evidence, they are safe to try. If tea tree oil has never been used before, the skin should be tested before applying the oil in large quantities or using as any type of medication. If any irritation does occur, the oil can be diluted with water. Tea tree oil can be the natural cure that the world has been searching for.