Tea tree essential oil - Benefits for skin

Tea tree essential oil - Benefits for skin 

Tea tree oil is an essential oil that can be used for several purposes, including keeping skin, hair and nails healthy.

In addition to its scientifically backed benefits, tea tree oil is inexpensive and safe when used as directed.

Tea tree oil comes from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia, a small tree native to Queensland and New South Wales, Australia.

Although Melaleuca alternifolia is known as the tea tree, it should not be confused with the plant that produces leaves used to make black, green and oolong tea.

Tea tree oil has been used as a traditional medicine by Aborigines for centuries. These native Australians crush tea tree leaves to extract the oil, which is then inhaled to treat coughs and colds or applied directly to the skin for healing.

Today, tea tree oil is widely available as a 100% undiluted or “neat” oil. Diluted forms are also available, ranging from 5–50% strength in products designed for the skin.

Tea tree oil contains a number of compounds, including terpinen-4-ol, that have been shown to kill certain bacteria, viruses and fungi. 

These germ-fighting properties make tea tree oil a valued natural remedy for treating bacterial and fungal skin conditions, preventing infection and promoting healing.

Read on to learn about the many uses and benefits of this versatile oil.

Tea tree oil makes an ideal natural hand sanitizer.

Studies have shown that it kills several common bacteria and viruses responsible for causing illness, including E. coli, S. pneumoniae and H. influenzae.

Moreover, a study testing several types of hand wash shows that adding tea tree oil to the cleansers boosted their effectiveness against E. coli.

Tea tree oil may help keep pesky insects away.

One study found that 24 hours after being treated with tea tree oil, cows had 61% fewer flies than cows not treated with tea tree oil 

Tea tree oil’s antibacterial effects may help control underarm odor related to perspiration.

Sweat itself does not smell. However, when secretions from your sweat glands combine with bacteria on your skin, a moderate to strong odor is produced.

Your underarm area contains a large concentration of these glands and is mainly responsible for what is commonly referred to as “body odor.” Tea tree oil’s bacteria-fighting properties make it an ideal natural alternative to commercial deodorants and antiperspirants.

An excellent antiseptic

Injuries that result in broken skin make it easy for germs to enter your bloodstream, which can lead to infection.

Tea tree oil can be used to treat and disinfect minor cuts and abrasions by killing S. aureus and other bacteria that can cause infection in open wounds

In addition to preventing infection in cuts and abrasions, tea tree oil may also encourage wound healing.

Tea tree oil can be a powerful weapon against acne.

Several studies have shown that it helps reduce the amount and overall severity of acne.

Fungal nail infections are quite common. Although they aren’t dangerous, they can be unsightly. There are medications that can treat nail fungus, though some people may prefer a more natural approach.

Tea tree oil has been shown to help get rid of nail fungus when used alone or in combination with other natural remedies

You can use a few drops of tea tree oil alone or mix it with an equal amount of coconut oil and apply it to the affected area. Be sure to wash your hands immediately after applying in order to avoid spreading the fungus to other areas.

Tooth decay and bad breath

One study found that tea tree oil was more effective against plaque-causing bacteria than chlorhexidine, a common disinfectant and oral rinse. What’s more, its taste was found to be less objectionable.

Tea tree oil makes a great all-purpose cleaner that also sanitizes surfaces.

Plus, it does so without leaving traces of chemicals you wouldn’t want your family members or pets coming in contact with.

Tea tree oil may help relieve inflamed skin.

A common form of skin irritation is contact dermatitis, which occurs when skin comes in contact with an allergen, such as nickel. Exposure to the allergen leads to red, itchy and sometimes painful skin.

Animal and human research suggest that applying tea tree oil may help reduce the severity of these symptoms.

Dandruff, or white flakes of dead skin that fall from the scalp, isn’t dangerous.

However, it can be annoying and embarrassing.

Although there is little published research on tea tree oil’s effectiveness in treating dandruff, one controlled study suggests that it may be helpful.

In this four-week study, the group who used a shampoo containing tea tree oil had a 40% improvement in dandruff. Moreover, the tea tree group reported significant improvements in dandruff severity, itchiness and greasiness

To help reduce dandruff, try adding a few drops of tea tree oil to a dollop of shampoo when washing your hair.

Athlete's foot

Athlete’s foot can be frustratingly hard to control.

Known medically as tinea pedis, athlete’s foot is a contagious fungal infection on the feet that can also spread to the toenails and hands. Symptoms include peeling, cracking, blisters and redness.

Antifungal medications are considered standard treatment for athlete’s foot. Yet studies suggest that tea tree oil may be an effective alternative for relieving symptoms.

Fruits and vegetables.

Fresh produce is undeniably delicious and healthy.

Unfortunately, it’s also susceptible to the growth of gray mold known as Botrytis cinerea, particularly in warm, moist climates.

Studies have shown that tea tree oil’s antifungal compounds terpinen-4-ol and 1,8-cineole may help reduce the growth of this mold on

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition characterized by outbreaks of red, itchy, scaly skin.

Although there are medications that can improve symptoms, the condition itself is chronic and there is no known cure.

Tea tree oil contains anti-inflammatory compounds, which, according to emerging evidence, may be helpful for easing psoriasis symptoms .

To provide relief for psoriasis flares, combine 10–15 drops of tea tree oil with two tablespoons of melted coconut oil. Apply this to the affected area 2–3 times per day, as needed.

WARNING:

Although tea tree oil is generally safe when used on adults’ skin, allergic reactions may occur in some people. Tea tree oil may be unsafe for young children and pets.

FINALLY

As you can see, tea tree oil can be helpful for a number of reasons.

It’s an inexpensive natural alternative to chemical-based skin and nail treatments, personal care products and disinfectants, among other things.

However, tea tree oil is not a magic cure-all. In fact, some people may experience skin irritation or allergic reaction after using it.

Overall, tea tree oil serves many purposes and is a good item to have on hand.