7 Amazing Benefits of Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is a distilled essential oil brimmed with benefits.

This essential oil possesses powerful antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Studies show that it can aid in treating acne, athlete’s foot, dermatitis, lice, and a range of disorders.

What is tea tree oil?

Tea tree oil is an extract of the evergreen leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia tree. This tree grows on the swampy Southcoast of Australia. The leaves of the tea tree are steamed and distilled to obtain the aromatic essential oil. 

The ancient aboriginal people of Australia have used this essential oil for centuries. They traditionally used this oil as an antiseptic. This oil became a popular remedy for acne, athlete’s foot, lice, nail fungus, and insect bites. This essential oil is also a complementary therapy in surgery, burn care, and dental care.

Later, studies also discovered the strong antibacterial and antifungal properties of this essential oil. And it became a common ingredient in skincare products. That included soaps, shampoos, creams, toothpaste, lip balm, and lotions. Today, tea tree oil is a common ingredient in medicine, skin care, and therapy. From treating minor cuts, burns, vaginal yeast infections, and lung problems. 

Benefits of Tea Tree Oil

1. It has anti-inflammatory actions

Tea tree oil comes with a high concentration of terpinene-4-ol. This compound is known to have potent anti-inflammatory properties. Studies show that topical application of tea tree oil can help in soothing swelling. It can also aid in combating pain.

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2. Tea tree oil for Acne

Tea tree oil is known for its antibacterial activity. A study revealed that acne patients treated with tea tree oil reported significant improvement in the severity of acne and acne breakouts. Though it might take a bit longer for tea tree oil to show results, the side effects of this natural oil are minimal. Add 4 drops of tea tree oil to half a cup of water and dab it on your face with cotton.

3. Tea tree oil for athlete’s foot

Research revealed that topical application of tea tree oil can aid in curing the symptoms of an athlete’s foot. Studies also revealed that tea tree oil is more effective in suppressing eczema than any other treatment.

4. Tea tree oil for Dandruff 

According to a study, tea tree oil is an effective remedy for dandruff. In fact, it is used in many shampoos and hair care products for its myriad benefits. In a study, people who used 5 percent tea tree oil shampoo daily for 4 weeks reported significant improvements in itchiness, greasiness, and scalp infections. Add a few drops of tea tree oil into your shampoo and rinse your hair.

5. Tea tree oil for Head lice

Head lice are a very common problem, especially among children. This calls for a safe and effective remedy for lice. Research revealed that tea tree oil is a very effective remedy for head lice. Also, tea tree oil combined with nerolidol proved to be an excellent solution to treat dandruff. 

Also Read: Easy Home Remedies for Lice

6. Tea tree oil for nail fungus

Studies proved the effectiveness of tea tree oil in killing a range of fungi. It is particularly effective against Candida albicans, a common yeast that affects the skin, genitals, throat, and mouth. This oil is also effective in treating fungal infections of the nail. Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with coconut oil and apply them to your nails. 

7. Tea tree oil for oral health

Tea tree oil’s antibacterial properties are very beneficial in treating chronic gingivitis, an inflammatory gum condition. In a clinical study, participants who used tea tree oil experienced significant improvement in bleeding and inflammation. You can add just 2 drops of tea tree oil to a cup of water and rinse your mouth. 

Side Effects

Tea tree oil is unsafe for oral ingestion. Consuming this essential oil can cause serious complications.

Experts have said that this essential oil is safe for topical application. However, in some people, it can cause skin rashes or irritation. So, it’s advised to do a patch test before applying it to the affected area.

Your takeaway!

Researchers have proved that Tea tree oil is very effective in combating harmful bacteria and fungal infections. In addition to the above list of benefits, Swiss researchers found that tea tree oil provides protection against cavity-forming bacteria in the mouth. It is also an excellent cleanser, natural deodorant, and wound healer. However, please make sure to never put the pure oil in your mouth as it is dangerous if swallowed. Also, keep it away from a child’s reach!