Tea tree oil is also known as melaleuca oil, and it comes from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia. This is a small tree that is native to Queensland and New South Wales, Australia.
It is more commonly known as tea tree oil but shouldn’t be confused with the plant that is used to make black, green, and oolong teas.
Tea tree oil has a fresh and camphoraceous odor and is yellow to colorless and clear. It is a strongly aromatic scent that is almost medicinal.
How Does Tea Tree Work?
Tea tree has been used in traditional medicine by the Aborigines for centuries. It was often used to treat coughs and was also applied directly to the skin because of its many healing properties. Today, we can find tea tree essential oil that can be used for the skin, and it has been shown to help kill bacteria, viruses, and some fungi.
Benefits of Tea Tree Oil
This essential oil contains many antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antifungal properties and is commonly used to treat a variety of conditions including acne, athlete’s foot, dermatitis, and even head lice.
Antibacterial
Due to these properties, tea tree oil makes a great hand sanitizer. Some studies have shown that tea tree oil can be used to kill several common bacteria and viruses that are known for causing certain illnesses.
Antiseptic
Tea tree oil can also be used to treat minor cuts and abrasions. When used in this way, it can help kill off the bacteria that can ultimately cause an infection. To use it for minor cuts and scrapes, one drop of tea tree oil can be mixed with one tablespoon of coconut oil and then applied to the wound and covered.
Anti-Inflammatory
Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, it is also widely used for acne treatments, as well. Acne is one of the most common skin conditions we experience. Tea tree oil mixed with a carrier oil like jojoba can help reduce inflammation and acts as a natural moisturizer for the skin while helping to restore our natural oil balance and prevent future breakouts.
Other Uses of Tea Tree Oil
In addition to the many uses above, tea tree oil can also help soothe sunburns, prevent lice in a more natural way, cure toenail fungus, and help remove skin tags. Tea tree essential oil is definitely an oil you want to have in your arsenal simply due to its incredible versatility and the many available applications.
Meta: Due to its incredible versatility and its many skin healing and protecting properties, tea tree oil is definitely something to have in your beauty arsenal.
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