What Is Tea Tree Oil?
A Natural Antiseptic
Tea tree oil comes from the leaves of the tea tree plant of Australia, and was named by 18th century sailors. It has been used for centuries as an herbal medicine for soothing headaches, fighting infections and healing skin ailments.
Therapeutic Benefits of Tea Tree Oil
- Effective for treating nail fungus
- Effective treatment for warts due to HPV
- A compound found in tea tree oil has significant anti-fungal activity against Candida
- Used to treat cold sores
- Help to regulate inflammation
- Treat eczema and psoriasis
- Treating dandruff or dry scalp
- Treating athlete's foot
- Heal acne, rashes, cuts, burns, insect bites, burns and stings
- Treat lice, scabies and ringworm
- Tea tree oil can be helpful in treating toothache, sore throat and ear infections
- Some people add tea tree oil to a bath or a diffuser to treat cough and bronchial congestion
Side Effects
- Don't take tea tree oil by mouth. If swallowed, it could cause confusion, unsteadiness, rash or coma.
- When used to treat acne, tea tree oil can cause dryness, burning and redness.
- Ask a doctor if you're pregnant - as safety information is lacking
Quick Facts
- Tea tree oil contains over 98 compounds responsible for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Tea tree oil is clear and has a fresh camphor like smell.
- The commercial tea tree oil industry started in the 1920s when Australian, Arthur Penfold reported its powerful antiseptic properties.
- Tea tree oil can be mixed with water and used as an all-purpose cleaner to fight germs, mold, bacteria, fungi and viruses.