Tea tree (Australia), essential oil

Latin Name: Melaleuca alternifolia 
Origin: Australia

Native to Australia, the tea tree produces one of the most well-known essential oils. The tree was first discovered by Captain Cook's sailors in the 18th century - they brewed a tea with its leaves to fight scurvy, hence the plant's name. The indigenous people were already well aware of the healing powers of the leaves, using them to relieve respiratory problems and headaches. Research has proved that Tea Tree essential oil has powerful antimicrobial and antifungal effects. Its aroma is pungent and medicinal.




Tea Tree Oil Treatment

One of the best overall herbs for treating skin is tea tree oil. It comes from the plant melaleuca in Australia. Tea tree oil is made by distilling the oil from the leaves. It has great healing powers that you’ll find many ways to use at home for the whole family.

Tea tree oil fights just about any germ that’s giving you trouble. It’s an antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial oil. That means it can be used to treat just about any infection you can acquire. It’s most powerful effects can be seen on the skin. Applying oil directly to the skin will remedy many different problems.

For example, tea tree oil can be applied to acne to help kill the infection and clear your skin. It can also be used to treat minor scrapes and cuts. If you have an insect bite, tea tree oil will help to relive the sting and prevent infection. You can also use tea tree oil to fight fungal infections such as ring worm and athlete’s foot. By putting the oil directly on the affected area, you’ll begin to see results in a few days.

But tea tree oil’s uses extend beyond the skin. It can also be used to treat other types of infections. For example, a few drops of tea tree oil can be dropped into steaming water and the vapors can be inhaled. This is an effective treatment for respiratory infections such as bronchitis and sinusitis.

You can also use tea tree oil combined with grape seed oil as a massage that helps to invigorate the immune system and calm inflamed joints. A few drops of tea tree oil can also be placed in a bath to calm inflamed skin.

Tea tree oil can be used in the form of an essential oil. It can also be used in combination with other herbs. Commercially you can buy tea tree oil in many skin products such as astringents, cleansers, soaps, and even aftershave. Many acne fighting formulations contain tea tree oil to boost the antibacterial action. Tea tree oil also gives a clean aroma to products that contain it.

If you’re looking for an all-purpose oil that can treat every kind of infection, tea tree oil is a great one to have on hand. It will work against viruses, bacteria, and fungi. When you use tea tree oil, you only need to have one first-aid product in your medicine cabinet.