Tea tree oil is one essential oil that can be used in a countless number of ways since it possesses more than 92 compounds. Tea tree oil comes from the leaves of the native Australian tree, Melaleuca alternifolia, and was commonly used as an Aboriginal system of medicine. Tea tree oil has since been used medicinally for over a century in Australia, but the indigenous use of this oil has been traced back over 22,000 years. The Aboriginal people would typically use the leaves of the tea tree plant and apply them directly to their skin because it would give off a cooling effect. Since then, tea tree oil has become popular for its numerous benefits and can be used in a variety of ways.
Tea Tree Oil Uses and Benefits:
- Hand Sanitizer
Multiple studies have shown that uses for tea tree oil kills common bacteria and viruses that can cause illnesses such as E. coli and H. influenzae. Luckily, there are several recipes online to help you properly make your own natural hand sanitizer using tea tree oil.
- Hair Treatment
Tea tree oil is commonly used in many hair care products because of its cleansing and purifying properties. Tea tree oil can also help treat dandruff by removing dead skin cells from the scalp. If you are struggling with dandruff or an itchy scalp, adding tea tree oil to your hair washing routine can help reduce these symptoms.
- Antiseptic for Cuts or Scrapes
Tea tree oil can be used to disinfect small cuts or scrapes because of its antibacterial properties that kill certain bacteria that can lead to infection in open wounds.
- Acne Treatment
Along with its antimicrobial properties, tea tree oil also contains anti-inflammatory properties which make it a popular choice for treating acne. Tea tree oil is thought to soothe swelling, inflammation, and calm redness.
- Natural Deodorant
Because of its antibacterial properties, tea tree oil may be able to help rid your underarms of odor. Since underarm odor is caused by bacteria on the skin, using tea tree oil to create a natural deodorant is thought to be very effective.
- All-Purpose Cleaner
Using an all-purpose cleaner made with tea tree oil in your home is not only great for the environment but also an effective way to clean. With its purifying properties, tea tree oil can be very helpful to clean with, without leaving harmful chemicals behind.