What is Tea Tree Essential Oil?
This wonderful oil derives from the distillation process of the leaves of tea tree ( scientifically known as Melaleuca Alternifolia). However, you should not confuse this with other tea plants (black tea, oolong, and green tea). These plants are native to New South Wales, Australia, and Queensland.
The tea tree is available as a 100% undiluted form. Even diluted forms are available which ranges from 5-50% strength designed for cosmetic products. Furthermore, it does not have a viscous consistency and can be applied to the skin by diluting it with carrier oil or water.
The fragrance of Tea Tree essential oil is similar to camphor. Because of this, you can easily test purity of oil. If your oil is of poor quality then it will smell like melted rubber.
Properties
It has incredible properties like fungicide, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiseptic, balsamic, antiviral, antibacterial, insecticide, expectorant, and other qualities. Therefore, this oil is an incredible weapon to fight various bacterial and fungal infections. Even it promotes healing and reduces infections.
The Aborigines used tea tree essential oil for centuries as traditional medicine. The native Australians extracts the oil from the leaves and inhaled it to treat cold and cough and applied on the affected area of the skin to heal.
The main chemical compound of Tea Tree Essential oil is a-terpinene, -4-, a-pinene, b-pinene, p-cymene, Linalool, a-terpineol, Limonene, 1,8-cineole, y-terpinene, terpinolene, a-terpineol, sabinene, a-phellandrene, and myrcene. These chemicals have shown to kill certain fungi, bacteria, and viruses. Even they increase the activity of WBC’s which fights foreign invaders and germs.
Uses and benefits
Skin
The Tea Tree Essential oil is a natural remedy to fight against various skin related problems. They have an ability to treat dry and itchy skin because of its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-bacterial properties. These properties also prevent wrinkles and fine lines on the skin with its anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, almost all the products for skin use tea tree essential oil as their ingredients to heal the skin in a better way.
The essential oil from Tea tree soothes dry skin and reduces itching. Even many researchers suggest this essential oil to treat Eczema. Tea tree oil is a fungus fighter which combats oily skin and gives acne prone skin. Softening blend of oil helps to counter cracked and ragged cuticles.
For Hair
The tea tree, even as herb is very effective against scalp irritation which makes hair follicles swell causing to hair fall. The oil removes the dead skin on the scalp and clears the unclogged pores. It promotes hair growth. With its insecticidal effects, the oil helps to get rid of lice. Therefore, all these properties make this oil excellent for hair care.
For Wellness
- As tea tree has an antimicrobial ability, it gives the ability to fight germs and bacteria that lead to respiratory tract infections. Even it prevents congestion, common cold, and coughs because of its antiviral qualities.
- The oil has antimicrobial properties that kill the germs and bacteria which are found in your mouth. The tea tree essential oil works as a natural remedy for mouth freshening.
How to use this oil?
- For Skin: Take 2-3 drops of essential oil and mix it well with water or Aloe Vera gel. Then use it on the skin to get rid of skin issues.
- For Hair: Mix 5-6 drops of essential oil with 1 tablespoon of carrier oil. And apply it on the scalp to get rid of hair related issues.
- For Wellness: Take a bath with warm water by adding 4-5 drops. Even you can use it in the diffuser to inhale it.
- Tea tree mixes well with lavender essential oil, rosemary essential oil, myrrh oil, geranium essential oil, rosewood, thyme essential oil, lemon essential oil, and clary sage essential oil.
Cautions during use:
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Consult Doctor if you are allergic to anything.
- Pregnant women should consult a doctor before using.
- Avoid contact with eyes, sensitive areas and inner part of the ear.