Tea tree oil – a native remedy from ‘Down Under’

Tea tree oil is an essential oil originating from Australia. It comes from the leaves of the Melaleuca tree, native to New South Wales and Queensland. 

Captain James Cook called the Melaleuca shrub “tea tree”. He brewed a refreshing and spicy drink from its leaves after reaching the shores of Australia on his journey around the world.

Tea tree oil and its healing powers

It was not until 1920 that tea tree was getting attention again. Doctor Arthur Penfold, a chemist from Sydney, proved that tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used in treating fungal and bacterial infections.

Tea tree oil production got commercialised, spreading to New Zealand, and later to Asia.

Today tea tree oil has become a standard item people not only use for medical purposes. It is as well a cleaning agent and deterrent for household pests. Otherwise, if ingested, tea tree oil is a toxic substance. It can cause severe nausea and even coma.

Also, there is a lack of scientific evidence to prove that tea tree oil is indeed a cure for fungal infections, herpes, dandruff, burns and other minor health problems. Despite this, the production and export of tea tree oil increases every year, while many swear by its magical powers.

Tea tree oil helps with skin problems

Tea tree oil is a popular ingredient in cosmetics, marketed as a healing component. For example, it can soothe dry skin by addressing itching and irritation issues. Simply add a few drops of the oil into a moisturiser and massage it into your face.

Tea tree oil is also good at tackling oily skin problems, reducing the size of the pores. It reduces inflammation and helps with acne.

Adding tea tree oil into shampoo moreover helps prevent the build-up of the product in the hair.

It is advised to always mix tea tree oil with either a carrier oil or other products before applying. Otherwise, the components can irritate sensitive skin.

Prepare your own aromatherapy essence with tea tree oil

Thanks to the fresh and calming aroma of tea tree oil, it’s a popular choice when it comes to aromatherapy sessions. Using tea tree oil in an air-diffuser will not only boost your mood. Thanks to its antibacterial properties, it can remove viruses, bacteria and mould from the environment.

In a small bottle, mix 4 drops of tea tree Oil with 4 Drops of Lemon Essential Oil, 4 Drops of Peppermint Essential Oil and 4 drops of Eucalyptus Essential Oil.

Warm the bottle in the palms of your hands by rolling it, allowing the oils to blend. Add a few drops of the mix into your diffuser and enjoy the bliss.

Tea tree oil as a natural flu remedy

Tea tree oil can also help to battle common colds and flu.

Simply mix 4 drops of tea tree oil with 4 drops of tea tree oil of Eucalyptus oil and a tablespoon of Vicks Vapor Rub.

Boil water, let it cool and add the mix to it. Inhale the vapours through your nose and exhale through your mouth. Cover yourself with a towel to increase the effect and keep the healing steam longer. Keep your eyes shut as the vapours can irritate them.