Tea tree oil is an essential oil that comes from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia, a small tree native to Queensland and New South Wales, Australia. It contains a number of compounds, including terpinen-4-ol, that have been shown to kill certain fungi, bacteria, and viruses. Tea tree oil has been used to treat conditions and symptoms that affect the skin, nails, and hair.
Below are some of the many uses of this versatile oil.
Helps Get Rid Of Acne
Tea tree oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties that work together to beat acne-causing bacteria and lower down levels of inflammation. These effects can help get rid of stubborn pimples.
For this remedy, we need to combine 2-3 drops of tea tree oil and 20 drops of witch hazel (or water). Gently apply it on the acne using a clean cotton ball or swab. Do this twice a day.
Also, we can try mixing 5 drops of tea tree oil and 2 teaspoons of raw honey and then put it on the face and leave for 1-2 minutes before washing with water.
Helps Treat Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus is a fungal infection that affects the toenails. This type of fungus prefers warm, moist environments, like gym showers and public pools. The infection starts with a white or yellow spot under the tip of the toenail, then the nail becomes thicker than normal or can become yellow in color, and brittle. Tea tree oil has antifungal and antiseptic properties and may be an effective treatment for this fungal infection.
First, add tea tree oil to a carrier oil, such as coconut oil. Use a cotton swab to apply the diluted tea tree oil on the affected area and allow it to dry.
Aside from this, we can also do a foot soak a few times per week. Add five drops of tea tree oil to a half-ounce of carrier oil and then mix them well. Stir the diluted oil into a bucket of warm water, and soak the feet for 20 minutes.
Helps Fight Dandruff
Tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties that can help fight away dandruff, scalp itchiness, dryness, and inflammation.
This remedy requires us to put a few drops of tea tree oil on mild anti-dandruff shampoo every time we wash our hair. For better absorption, massage it onto the scalp and leave it for 3-5 minutes. Rinse well.
A Natural Deodorant
Tea tree oil is now widely used in personal care products like deodorant because of its antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
To make tea tree oil deodorant we need to follow these instructions:
In a bowl, mix together ¼ cup of melted coconut oil, ¼ cup baking soda, ¼ cup of cornstarch, and 25 to 30 drops of tea tree oil. Pour the mixture into an empty glass and leave for a few hours. Apply on the desired areas.
