Tea Tree Oil Benefits

Tea tree oil is an essential oil derived from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia, a tree-like shrub native to the northeast coast Australia, and is also known in some regions as melaleuca oil. Tea tree oil is most known for its medicinal properties when used topically. Never add tea tree oil to food or drinks since it is toxic when ingested. Tea tree oil is not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate tea tree oil so it can be sold with limited or no research.

This essential oil has many different uses as an antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and as an antiseptic. Although most people will associate tea tree oil with its medicinal properties, but did you know that it is also believed to have beneficial beauty properties as well?

Tea tree oil is no stranger to traditional medicine and has been used for years to treat various viruses, fungi, and bacteria, something that most ingredients and chemicals are not able to do alone.Tea tree oil plays a big role in the production of many skin care products used to treat minor skin infections, cuts, bruises, acne, and eczema.

As wonderful as it is for the skin, this essential oil isn’t just limited to skin irritations, it is also used as a healing facial cleanser and face mask. Tea tree oil has also been found to be successful at treating dry scalp and dandruff, and is used in many shampoos and conditioners. For dry or damaged hair, buy a tea tree oil based shampoo or add a few drops of pure oil to your regular shampoo. Use tea tree oil in shampoo regularly to help unclog hair follicles and keep the scalp hydrated.

With its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, it's no wonder that it is used in many hand soaps and detergents. When used in creams, lotions, and moisturizers for the treatment of dry skin, eczema, and psoriasis.

• fungal nail infections
• yeast infections
• athlete's foot
• insect bites
• minor cuts
• sunburn
• burns
• acne

Cold Sores

Place a dab of tea tree oil directly on a cold sore area at the first signs of a forming cold sore. This will help prevent the cold sore from getting worse or spreading.

This "Wonder from Down Under" oil has proven to be a breakthrough in treating people who have problems with toenail fungus, something that can prevent you from wearing sandals or flip flops in the summer heat due to embarrassing, ugly toenails Many doctors, clinicians, and hospitals will even suggest using tea tree oil before trying some of the popular prescription medications for treating this annoying problem.

Ridding the toenails of fungus is a long, tedious process when using tea tree oil, so many people will give up and opt for a presciption medication. For this method to be successful it is best to use pure 100% tea tree oil. Washing the feet and toes with a tea tree based soap prior to application of the oil can help keep fungal infections from worsening.

Apply the oil to the surface of the nail, as well as any surrounding tissue that appears to be affected by the fungus. If you notice any changes, irritations, burning, swelling, or other minor discomforts and discontinue use. If symptoms still persist, consult a physician.

Arthritis

Mix a small amount of olive oil with a few drops of tea tree oil and massage around sore joints.

Bruises

Apply directly to the area of the bruise to help it fade quickly. Use on an area of a potential bruise (such as a sprain) to help minimize and possibly prevent bruising.

Although some studies show that tea tree oil is slightly less effective than benzoyl peroxide for curing mild to moderate acne, it generally has fewer side effects. Some of these side effects include: stinging, burning, itching, and dryness.

When using tea tree oil as a home remedy for acne you will need to dilute it in pure aloe vera gel at a ratio of 2-3 drops of tea tree oil per one ounce of aloe vera.

Many people that suffer with acne also tend to have sensitive skin. When using this mixture for acne, be sure to test on a small area. Discontinue use if any redness, itching, or burning occurs. Seek medical advice if symptoms persist.

Nasal Congestion

Place a few drops of tea tree oil on a clean cloth. Breathe through the cloth by inhaling through the nose and exhaling through the mouth. This opens nasal passages so you can breathe easier.