Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is one of the most widely used essential oil, it has been extensively researched. Tea tree oil has a variety of use making it a must have in every home. It is practical and convenient to use and inexpensive.

Origin
The tea tree oil is extracted from the leaves and stems of the Melaleuca alternifolia plant. The plant is native of Australia where it has been used for over 100 years. The aborigines used the leaves to heal skin problems and wounds.
The plant is a small shrub with needle type leaves.
At the beginning of WWII, each soldier from the Australian army and navy was given a bottle of tea tree essential oil.

Benefits
Fight infections, antibacterial, fungicide, antiviral, antimicrobial, wound healing properties, anti-inflammatory

Uses

• Tea tree oil can be used as a first treatment in case of abscess, blisters, boils, light burns, infected wounds, nappy rash, skin irritation, gingivitis, mouth ulcers, insect bites or against ring worms. 
• Tea tree oil stimulates the immune system. It can stop viruses. It provides relief from cough, cold, bronchitis and congestion.
• and much more

How to use?
- atmospheric diffusion 
- skin application
- inhalation
- mouth wash

Other uses:
The powerful anti microbial properties of tea tree makes it an essential oil throughout the house in replacement for toxic products, it can be used as household multi surface cleaner, or anti-microbial laundry freshener (you can check my recipe for homemade laundry detergent or toilet gel). In the bathroom, the oil can be added to face or body creams, tea tree oil is also very efficient against lice.

Note:
Only lavender and tea tree oils can be used undiluted directly to the skin however it is best to only use on small area of the body, for bigger area or for those with sensitive skin it should be diluted with a carrier oil – such as sweet almond, olive or coconut oil.

Tea tree oil is not recommended for the first 3 months of pregnancy.
NOT for internal use



EH = essential oil

References: Ma bible des huiles essentielles - ​