Tea Tree Oil – Nature’s First Aid

June 26, 2012 by Alia 3 Comments

Origins

Tea Tree Oil is indigenous to eastern Australia’s tea trees.  It’s Latin name is Melaleuca alternifolia and it is also known as Australian tea tree oil or Melaleuca oil.

This oil has a strong camphor-like smell.  To be honest, it’s not my favorite scent.  However, it works great to clear a stuffy nose!

The oil itself is clear.  If you purchase it, be sure to get it in a dark glass bottle to  protect it from light that can reduce its potency.

Uses

Tea Tree Oil has long been used a natural remedy.  It has been used to treat acne, athlete’s foot, dandruff, and skin infections.  It should always be used in a diluted form and should not be ingested.

Tea Tree Oil is used in creams, shampoos, lotions and other skin care products. It’s even found in some toothpastes and mouthwashes.  These are considered safe since you should not be swallowing either the toothpaste or the mouthwash.

Tea Tree Oil is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breast-feeding.

My own experience with Tea Tree Oil

I’ve used Tea Tree Oil the most in my Day and Night Oil.  Though I don’t like the smell whatsoever, it’s been helpful in keeping my breakouts under control.

I’ve also used it, mixed with a carrier oil, as a spot treatment at night.

I had a friend who had a mild case of Athlete’s foot.  She soaked her feet in a basin of water with one to two drops of Tea Tree Oil and voila, the infection subsided.

Of course, if you ever feel congested, take a whiff of some Tea Tree Oil and that should clear you right up!