Tea tree oil is procured from leaves of tea tree or Melaleuca alternifolia. Tea tree oil is popular for its anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-bacterial properties due to the presence of many compounds like terpinen-4-ol.
Let’s discuss some of the benefits and uses of this multi-purpose oil.
Tea tree oil can be used to sanitise hands naturally. Multiple clinical trials have shown that this oil has the potential to kill certain microbes like E.coli, S. pneumoniae and H. influenzae which are infection-causing.
Tea tree oil also fights certain bacterias which are responsible for body odour. Hence it can be applied to the skin as a natural deodorant.
Due to its antiseptic properties, tea tree oil also prevents the spreading of infection when used for minor wounds and injuries.
Tea tree oil also minimises the effects of inflammation. Hence it promotes wound healing and can be used as a massaging oil for joints pain during arthritis. Tea tree oil promotes wound healing by activating white blood cells.
Another popular reason for which tea tree oil is used is to fight acne. In a particular study, when a 5% tea tree gel was applied on acne, it was found to be effective in reducing lesions as compared to the placebo group.
Just a drop of tea tree oil in a warm cup of water can also be used as a natural mouthwash. This chemical-free mouthwash knocks down plaque-causing bacterias. Make sure not to swallow this mouthwash.
The anti-inflammatory property of tea tree oil might help in relieving the symptoms of certain skin diseases like dermatitis, psoriasis, redness and swelling due to bug bites. Tea tree oil is also advantageous for treating hair issues like dandruff, dry, itchy scalp and white flakes.
To sum up, tea tree oil has many stupendous properties and can be used as a remedy for many purposes. But some people might be allergic or sensitive to this oil. Therefore, before using tea tree oil, be careful to do a patch test.