Grown on the swampy southeast coast of Australia, tea tree oil is an essential oil, useful for multiple reasons. It is sourced from the Melaleuca alternifolia plant and offers a cost-effective and generally well-tolerated topical solution.
Although it is not FDA-approved in the United States, Australians use this oil as a complementary medicine. However, one must learn its uses and benefits thoroughly before utilizing it. In this blog post, we will do the needful!
Tea tree oil is obtained by distilling the leaves and other parts of Melaleuca alternifolia. However, it's important to use tea tree oil correctly to avoid skin irritation or allergic reactions. Here's how to use tea tree oil safely:
Tea tree oil is potent and can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions if used undiluted on the skin. Always dilute tea tree oil with a carrier oil (like coconut oil, jojoba oil, or sweet almond oil) or in a cream or lotion. A common dilution ratio is 1-2 drops of tea tree oil per tablespoon of carrier oil or lotion.
Before applying tea tree oil to a larger area of your skin, do a patch test to check for any adverse reactions. Apply a small amount of the diluted tea tree oil to a small area of your skin (like the inside of your wrist) and wait 24 hours to see if any irritation occurs. If there's no reaction, it's generally safe to use on a larger area.
10 reasons to choose Tea Tree oil
From scalp to skin, tea tree oil offers potential improvements for your beauty routine. Below, we will list down some of its uses for your better understanding:
Benefits of tea tree oil for skin:
1. Anti-inflammatory and Antifungal properties
One of the top reasons to use this essential oil is for its anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties. According to PubMed, this oil contains a minimum content of terpinene-4-ol, which exhibits strong antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Moreover, according to the NCBI, the oil is also useful to kill a range of yeasts and
2. Acne
While bacterial growth contributes to acne, tea tree oil's properties may help individuals clear blemishes.
According to Science Direct, applying tea tree volatile oil to your skin reduces bacteria growth.
3. Athlete’s foot
Tinea pedis, commonly known as athlete's foot, is a highly contagious fungal infection that targets the skin on your feet, especially between the toes. If not treated on time, they may even spread to your hands.
Meanwhile, tea tree oil can significantly reduce this ailment, as shown in a study.
4. Infections, cuts, and wound-healing
With its antibacterial properties, tea tree oil is the best wound healer. Moreover, it can be used to treat and disinfect minor cuts.
When you apply it to the affected area, it can kill several bacteria that may otherwise cause infection in open wounds.
5. Soothing several skin conditions
Another excellent use of tea trees for skin is providing relief to irritated skin. Whether you are facing skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema, use this oil while also informing your health care provider about the same.
According to a study by PubMed, “Tea tree oil reduced allergic contact dermatitis by 40.5%.”
But make sure you don't overuse it, as the oil can instead irritate sensitive skin.
6. Fight tooth germs
With the help of tea tree oil mouthwash, individuals may get effective help fighting against plaque-causing bacteria.
It can also help people fight bad breath as well as reduce the inflammation of gingivitis
7. Controls dandruff
Dandruff is a big problem for many individuals. These white flakes of dead skin can be very annoying. But you should not worry!
Tea tree oil, known for its fungus-fighting powers, can also be a lifesaver! Just add a few drops to your shampoo and watch those flakes disappear.
8. Hair growth
Another great use of tea oil is to enhance hair growth. It improves blood circulation when applied and massaged into the hair. Moreover, it also removes toxins from the scalp.
The use of the oil is beneficial for cleansing. It thus helps in preventing the buildup of oils, promoting healthier hair follicles.
9. Control hair odor
Tea tree oil can be effective in controlling hair odor due to its antimicrobial and antifungal properties. It helps target the bacteria and fungi that can lead to scalp and hair odors.
By using a tea tree oil shampoo, you can balance excess oil production on the scalp, which can further contribute to unpleasant odors.
10. Prevents Lice
Tea tree oil is often touted for its potential to prevent and treat head lice due to its natural insecticidal properties.
By using shampoo additives, hair sprays, or undergoing scalp treatment, one may effectively get rid of lice. While the benefits of this wonder herb are innumerable, it has adverse effects if not used with expert advice or overused.
Few adverse effects are listed below:
Tea tree oil is usually utilized for topical use. However, dilute it with coconut or olive oil first! Also, if you overuse it or use a duplicate product, it may lead to adverse effects.
One might experience skin irritation, dry skin, and swelling. Additionally, some individuals could encounter redness, itching, burning, and dry or scaly skin.
It is thus recommended that you do a patch test before applying it directly to the affected area. This way, you’ll learn whether or not you have an allergic reaction to this essential oil.
If you are using the oil in aromatherapy, understand that overuse of it may lead to symptoms such as nausea, headaches, or vertigo. Thus, make sure you add the oil to your daily routine by taking all the precautions.
Conclusion
Tea tree oil works wonders for you and can provide excellent benefits to your skin and hair in various ways. However, you must learn the appropriate way to use it and the correct amount to apply.
You can always reach out to your healthcare provider if you are unsure about using the oil.
Reviewed by
Ayurveda Physician
