Uses of Tea Tree Oil

Tea Tree Oil is a clear, essential oil that comes from a tree indigenous to Australia. Crushed tea tree leaves have historically been used as a homeopathic remedy to treat infection and colds. In the 1920s it was scientifically established that Tea Tree Oil has anti-microbial properties and may fight bacterial as well as fungal infection.

In modern day United States, it is often found as an ingredient in natural household cleaners as well as homeopathic remedies, and even toothpaste. You can find Tea Tree oil undiluted in many pharmacies and “big box” stores. It is important to dilute tea tree oil with water if it is to be used on skin to treat infection as some people can develop an allergy or a reaction to it. If you are trying tea tree oil in a topical skin treatment, try a patch test on an uninfected area first to test for reactions.

You can use Tea Tree oil to wash clothing. It is particularly effective in eliminating unpleasant odors as it has a very strong scent itself, the fumes are capable of temporarily clearing sinus passages. Again, it should be diluted with water. In some cases it may actually discolor the dye in fabric.

Tea Tree oil can also be an effective bug repellent and may be a more desirable alternative to chemical sprays on camping trips. A diluted solution in a spray bottle applied to to doorways and windows can also act as a deterrent to mosquitoes and help limit how many get into your home during warmer months of the year. You may want to do a patch test of your diluted solution before spraying to make sure that it does not cause stains or bleaching on surfaces.

Though used in homeopathic remedies, it is important to mention that it is never meant to be taken internally.