Tea Tree

Tea Tree

Tea tree oil is colorless with a camphor-like fragrance and is extracted by the steam distillation of the leaves of the plant. It was originally found on the swampy south east coast of Australia and used by the aboriginal people for its antiseptic and herbal properties.
    • Also known as: Melaleuca oil
    • CAS number: 68647-73-4

      Tea Tree oil can be applied on skin topically for infections such as acne, fungal infections of the nail, lice, scabies, athlete's foot, ringworm etc.

      The Tea Tree oil has the properties of an antibacterial, antimicrobial, antiseptic, antiviral, balsamic, cicatrizant, expectorant, fungicide, insecticide, stimulant, and is a sudorific substance.

      Botanical Name: Melaleuca alternifolia

      The Story behind the Name 

      Explorer and Captain James Cook noticed that the indigenous people used the leaves to make tea so he coined the term 'Tea Tree'. 

       

      Centennial

      During 1922 Arthur Penfold determined that tea tree oil is 11 to 13 times more powerful than carbolic acid in killing fungus and bacteria. 

       

      Myriad of Applications

      Tea tree has been used:

      1. To treat dry skin, scalp and eczema 
      2. On oily and itchy skin for medicinal purposes. 
      3. To soothe inflammation 
      4. For hair and scalp treatment 
      5. To treat severe acne
      6. In treating psoriasis and scabies
      7. To treat Fungal, Bacterial and Viral Infection
      8. To relieve congestion and respiratory tract infections
      9. To boost hair health 

      Tea Tree Oil is widely used in aromatherapy; it is believed to have a calming fragrance, similar to eucalyptus, that uplifts the mood, boosts immunity and relieves stress.

      Tea tree oil has both anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. 

       

      Concoctions

      • 5-10 drops for wound dressings
      • 2 drops in one cup of water to be used as mouthwash
      • 5-10 drops in regular shampoo to treat dandruff
      • 4 drops in half cup of water to apply on the face using a cotton pad to treat acne
      • 20 drops in a cup of water mixed with half a cup of white vinegar to be used as household cleaner
      • 2 drops in natural Aloe Vera gel for daily skincare routine

      Tea tree is also added to face washes, moisturizers, witch hazel and other carrier oils.  

      NOT for Internal Use: According to the National Poison Center, tea tree oil is known to be poisonous if swallowed. Tea tree oil should NOT be taken by mouth for any reason. If you are using tea tree for bad breath or oral health, make sure you spit it out afterwards to prevent potential side effects like digestive issues, hives or dizziness.


      Dosage

      After a patch test and confirming it’s safe to use, apply diluted tea tree oil on your skin. One can apply the oil to the affected area twice a day as a part of their routine. 


      BEWARE

      Tea tree oil should be applied with caution, especially near the eyes as it can cause irritation and redness. 



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