Tea tree oil is made from the leaves of the Australian tree Melaleuca alternifolia and has many beneficial properties that make it a multi-purpose essential oil. Below you’ll find ten popular uses:
- Face: Tea tree oil may have beneficial effects against acne. Since it can be irritating to sensitive skin, always test a small amount before applying tea tree oil all over and be sure to dilute it in an oil-based solution such as olive oil.
- Feet: Tea tree oil can be used on toenails to help soothe and support a clean environment.
- Hair: A few drops of tea tree oil in shampoo may help rid your hair of aggravating head lice.
- Scalp: Tea tree oil in shampoo can also help stop the cycle of dry scalp.
- Nails: Just as it can be used on the feet, tea tree oil can be used on fingernails to help support a clean, healthy environment, especially between real and artificial nails.
- Skin: A bath can be enhanced by a few drops of tea tree oil, which can help soothe mild irritation or sore muscles.
- Nasal passages: Add two to three drops of tea tree oil to a pot of boiling water (after removing it from the stove) and lean forward to inhale the vapors. About five minutes of this should help relieve minor nasal discomfort.
- Gums: Tea tree oil has been touted as a natural relief for occasional bad breath. It may also help ease discomfort associated with minor mouth irritations. Three drops in a cup of warm water is all you need to make a tea tree oil mouthwash. Just remember: do NOT swallow the solution.
- Clothes: The anti-odor properties of tea tree oil make it a refreshing additive that can be used when washing clothes or towels. Just be careful not to go overboard, as you don’t want to irritate your skin. Half a teaspoon per load should be enough.
- Cleaning products: To make your own natural cleaning solution, combine 2 teaspoons of tea tree oil with 2 cups of water. This homemade combination can be effective at cleaning various surfaces.
Important warnings: Always test your tea tree oil product to make sure it won’t irritate your skin. Do not ingest tea tree oil, as it can cause major stomach discomfort. Also, if you have pets, be advised that tea tree oil can be very toxic to animals.
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