Benefits Of Tea Tree Oil And It's Uses
The tea tree - Melaleuca Alternifolia- is native to Australia. Tea tree oil is extracted via steam distillation from the balsamic, woody, antiseptic fragrant leaves and twigs of this tree.
Australian natives have been using tea tree for more than a hundred years for almost any kind of ailment. They discovered its antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, antiviral and immune stimulant properties. It is the only other essential oil, apart from Lavender, that can be used undiluted and without the help of a carrier oil. That being said, it is always a good idea to do a skin patch test first, before applying the oil onto your skin.
Tea tree oil is probably best known for its antibacterial activity. It acts as an immune booster and helps the body to fight off a host of micro-organisms. Some research suggests that the broad-spectrum antimicrobial resistance of tea tree oil comes from its ability to damage the cell walls of bacteria. In fact, when added to water in pools, hot tubs and spas it controls bacterial levels.
Making your own tea-tree oil spray is simple:
- Take a clean spray bottle add a few drops of tea tree oil and water, tighten the lid and shake the bottle.
- Rinse out the water.
- Next add 2 teaspoons tea tree oil into the spray bottle. Add 2 cups water. Tighten the lid and shake to mix.
(Oil and water don't really mix, so shake thoroughly to distribute the oil). - Shake well before use and spray on surfaces in need of antiseptic cleaning.
Tea tree oil is effective in treating a range of ailments. It helps relive symptoms of persistent colds, flu, and cough. You can inhale this oil or lightly dab around your nose to open-up clogs and soothe sinuses. It’s been effective even against whooping cough.
Tired and achy? Add a few drops of tea tree oil into a warm bath to relax and rejuvenate you. The oil also helps to soothe sore muscles and treat sports wounds.
What about nasty infections like ring worm? Apply undiluted tea tree oil on the area. Tea tree oil works well on athlete’s foot and toenail infections as well. You can also easily get rid of bad odours and smelly feet.
Concerned about your skin? Incorporate a little tea tree oil into your beauty regimen. Tea tree oil works miracles on rashes, spots, pimples and acne. It also heals acne scars and unclogs pores.
Tea tree oil works well on plantar warts and cold sores. The best part is that it cures the affected area by penetrating the skin and leaves no scars. Rubbing it on to your scalp will help in getting rid of nits, dandruff and lice.
Tea tree oils make a superb natural disinfectant. Rather than blindly reaching out for alcohol-based sanitizers, add some tea tree oil to water in a spray bottle and use it for cleaning and deodorizing your household.
