- Originally used as a cough and cold medicine by the aborigines in Australia, the tribesmen found they could use a poultice made from the leaves of the tea tree plant to prevent infection in wounds. Tea tree oil did not enter mainstream use until a researcher, Arthur Penfold, published reports on tea tree oil's antimicrobial properties.
- Most often found as an essential oil, tea tree oil is also an ingredient in creams, ointments, lotions, soaps, shampoos and tablets. Tea tree oil can be used as an antiseptic, a germicide, an antibacterial and a fungicide. Truly, tea tree oil is one of the best multifunction natural medicines available.
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Tea tree oil alone can be a potent oil that should be used cautiously on the skin. Often it is best mixed in with a cream or ointment as a base. Tea tree oil's effect on the skin can be likened to camphor, in that it results in a strong odor and has a strong warming effect. For this reason tea tree oil is a wonderful antidote for tired and achy muscles. Also, because of its strong odor, it can also act as an insect repellent. Should you sustain an insect bite, application of tea tree oil will ease the itch of the bite.
With its antiseptic and antibacterial qualities, tea tree oil makes an effective remedy for acne. Again, it should be diluted before using directly on the skin.
In shampoo, tea tree oil has been found to be a potent anti-dandruff remedy. Tea tree oil has also been found to be effective in treating the blepharitis infection, which occurs in the eye, however, application should only be prescribed by a naturopathic practitioner.
Tea tree oil is also found in mouthwashes and toothpastes. Oral use can treat or prevent halitosis, canker sores and even gum disease. - One study theorized that tea tree oil could cause breast enlargement in males. Although there have been only three reported cases of this, people with heightened sensitivity to hormones (pregnant or nursing women and those with cancer susceptible to hormonal imbalances) should not use tea tree oil.
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Undiluted, tea tree oil can cause skin irritation.
Many experts believe tea tree oil should not be taken internally, but in Europe, it can be found as an ingredient in tablets to treat Candida albicans, an internal yeast infection.
Tea tree oil can be toxic to pets and should be kept out of reach of children, as well.
