Properties and Uses of Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree essential oil is steam distilled from the leaves of the tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia), an evergreen shrub native to Australia. The oil is perhaps one of the best-known essential oils and has a variety of uses. The properties of tea tree oil include its ability to help fight bacteria, fungus, viruses, and inflammation.

Melaleuca Alternifolia by Raffi Kojian [CC-BY-SA-3.0]

A review of tea tree oil published in the January 2006 Clinical Microbiology Reviews concluded that data supports the long-held belief that the oil has antimicrobial properties and that the properties of the oil include the ability to fight inflammation.

The September 22, 1999, Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics looked at the antiseptic properties of tea tree oil for bruises, insect bites, and skin infections and concluded that these antiseptic properties are partly due to the oil increasing white blood cell production.

Fungus

Tea tree oil is traditionally known as an antifungal. Studies, including one published in the March 2004 Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, support using the oil to fight fungus.

Fungus can infect the skin, causing reddish round patterns called ringworm (tinea). Ringworm can occur on the body, scalp, groin (jock itch), or feet (athlete's foot).

The easiest way to use tea tree oil for ringworm is to dab it directly onto the fungus. Tea tree is generally acknowledged as a safe oil to apply directly to the skin without dilution; however, it's a good idea to spot test first to make sure you are not sensitive to the oil.

Tea tree oil can cause a slight burning sensation, so take care if using on sensitive areas and dilute as needed. Also, be sure to wash your hands after applying, as fungus is easily spread to other parts of the body.

If you don't want to, or can't, apply the oil directly, see these blends containing tea tree oil for athlete's foot.

Acne

A study published in the Oct. 15, 1990, The Medical Journal of Australia concluded that tea tree oil is just as effective as benzoyl peroxide in treating acne. You can dab it directly on a blemish. Again, spot test first.

Cleaning

Because tea tree essential oil is unfriendly to bacteria, viruses, and mildrew, it's also great for making homemade cleaning products. For an all-purpose cleaning spray, mix 2 cups filtered or distilled water with 1 cup white vinegar and about 10 drops of tea tree oil in a spray bottle. Shake well before use.

More

More ways to use tea tree oil at The Aroma Blog.

I recommend Young Living essential oils. You can buy directly at the site, where tea tree is listed as Melaleuca alternifolia. There's also Melaleuca ericifolia, a different variety of tea tree that produces an essential oil that is very gentle and non-irritating to the skin. (Please use Sponsoring Distributor Member Number 1030500 or contact me for more information.)